The event is planned for May 19-21 at the Robert W. Plaster Center adjacent to the Garfield Weede Building and in parking lots surrounding it and the nearby Bicknell Family Center for the Arts. It is free and open to the public.
Acting on input from past years’ visitors, all outdoor booths will be concentrated in very close proximity to the indoor venue, according to Four State Farm Show Manager Lance Markley.
While the very first farm show, held at the former National Guard Armory in Pittsburg, drew about 60 exhibitors, this year’s version will showcase approximately 800.
Among the many highlights: The National Institute for Materials Advancement (NIMA) at Pittsburg State University will conduct a series of workshops called F.A.R.M.S. (Farmers Accelerating Research In Material Science).
The purpose: to connect farmers and ranchers with scientists from NIMA. Through this exchange, scientists hope to gain valuable insights into problems that can be addressed through advances in polymers and plastics. One-hour sessions will be facilitated by county extension agents. No advance registration is necessary, and anyone in attendance may join the sessions.
The show’s booths will highlight the latest technology in farm machinery, construction equipment, livestock handling, feed and seed, and several rural living displays will provide shopping opportunities for clothing and jewelry, hunting supplies, metal art, embroidery, furniture, healthcare, and home improvement.
Several food truck style concessions will be available. Parking will be free in the Brown Lot east of Carnie Smith Stadium, in the Kansas Technology Center parking lot, or at other university parking lots across campus.
Buses will be available to shuttle attendees to the booth areas and two 40-passenger trams will travel continuously through the show during show hours. Golf carts may be rented from the show supplier.
For more information: 620-423-2355.