By Debra Davis

A series of free, family-friendly events in downtown Montgomery will help celebrate the centennial of the state’s largest farm organization Aug. 7 at the Family Farm Fun Day.

Hundreds of Alabama Farmers Federation members will attend the organization’s annual Farm & Land Expo Aug. 5-7, which offers tours and workshops for farmers. But the special family day events Aug. 7 are designed to encourage everyone to join the festivities.

“We want this conference to be something different for our members, and we also want to provide an opportunity to bring others downtown to celebrate with us,” said the Federation’s Brian Hardin. “Our state’s history is deeply rooted in agriculture, and it’s still our state’s largest industry. This event is a celebration of our past and helps remind us that agriculture remains important to our state today.”

Hardin, director of the Federation’s Governmental and Agricultural Programs Department, said outdoor fun can be found in and around the historic Union Station Train Shed from 10 a.m. – 2 p.m. Activities include an antique tractor show and a grain bin farm safety demonstration under the shed, he said. A nearby grassy area will feature a petting zoo, face painting and tractor-drawn hayride.

A farmers market with fresh, Alabama-grown fruits and vegetables for sale will be in the commerce lot adjacent to the train shed, as will an artisan market with handmade crafts and food items from throughout the state.

Rounding out the festivities will be live music by River Dan and food trucks featuring a variety of cuisines for sale will be located near tents that will provide seating and shade.

The Farm & Land Expo Trade Show is open from 1-5 p.m. in the Montgomery Convention Center (Hall C) and will feature farm equipment, trucks, ag lenders and other exhibits of interest to farmers, landowners and rural residents.

Preregistration for the Family Fun Day and the Farm & Land Expo Tradeshow is not required.

Conference registration ends July 16. Click here for more information.