The story of Pennsylvania starts on the farm and somehow it always ends with milkshakes.

Every January, sometime just after the end of the holidays and right before hibernation, Pennsylvania takes a moment to celebrate its rich agricultural heritage. The PA Farm Show at the Farm Show Complex and Expo Center in Harrisburg, now in its 107th year, brings all elements of the farming industry together under one roof. It is currently the largest indoor agricultural exposition in the country.

Whether you spend your days in the dirt, in a classroom, or in an office, the farm show has something for you. You’ll find the latest in farm technology, displays from many different growers and producers, historical presentations, adorable animals and, of course, plenty of food.

A Massive Collection of Small, Family Businesses

From apple orchards and wine makers to small dairy operations and maple tree farms, you’ll be able to sample your way through the whole show. Every stop along the way presents an opportunity to buy real, Pennsylvania-made products. Get it all from leather wallets to pure wildflower honey made by true Pennsylvania bees and so much more.

PA Leads the Way in Conservation and Sustainability

Before you lose yourself in the maze of food vendors and the adorable farm animals, stop by the presentations on PA’s agricultural conservation efforts. It’s a point of pride that Pennsylvania farms manage to coexist in harmony with the abundant natural resources around them. Such practices ensure a bright, bountiful future for generations to come.

We’ve Waited Long Enough. Let’s Get to the Animals!

Everywhere you turn at the PA Farm Show there are animals. They’re kind of the stars of the show. Enjoy presentations and judged competitions of both working and show animals. It won’t be long before you realize that they’re the true heroes of Pennsylvania’s farm industry.

The farm show features everything from the smallest baby chicks and cows to dinosaur-sized horses and silly-looking alpacas. With hundreds of animal exhibits, a trip to the farm show is much like spending a day at the zoo (except it’s free).

And, you never know, you just might bump into a major celebrity.

As With Most PA Events, it Really all Comes Down to the Food

Bring your appetite. You’ll want to try a little of everything from baked Pennsylvania trout sandwiches and chowder to classic cheesesteaks and fries made fresh from homegrown PA potatoes. Every stand offers delicacies from just about every corner of PA’s diverse agricultural industry. Don’t miss the honey sweetened ice cream or perennial favorite, fried mozzarella cubes on a stick. There’s almost too much food to try. Just take your time.

And before you leave, get in that long line and pick up some of those famous cider donuts.

The 107th PA Farm Show runs from January 7-14, from 8 a.m. to 9 p.m. Admission to the farm Show is free and parking in Farm Show lots is $15. There are complimentary shuttles to and from each lot.

Article Updated from its Original Version Published on 1/10/19.