“Keep your hooves down! They don’t know any better.”
By Matt de Simone
Horses, cows, chickens, and sheep – all of which guests were pleased to meet at the 2024 Botetourt County Fair.
Botetourt County’s agriculture community welcomed guests to the much-anticipated event over the weekend. Buchanan Town Park saw a large gathering ready to experience agriculture shows and demonstrations that took place all day Saturday.
“This year’s fair was a great success!” Botetourt Fair Associaiton Board of Directors member Stefanie Manbeck said when asked about last weekend’s event. “From a diverse range of vendors, to the exhilarating draft horse pull, delicious food offerings, vibrant music and a record-breaking livestock auction, this year’s event was truly exceptional.
“The Board of Directors would like to extend our deepest gratitude to the community for their unwavering support. It is thanks to the collective enthusiasm that we were able to achieve such remarkable milestones. As we reflect on the success of this year, we remain committed to our mission of supporting and celebrating the rich agricultural heritage of Botetourt County. Looking ahead, we are excited about the opportunity to continue to grow and enhance the fair each year. Thank you for the continued support. We hope to see you all in 2025.”
Guests had the opportunity to enjoy youth livestock and poultry shows, the Draft Horse Pull, a woodcarving demonstration by Dwayne Hodges from Woodchucks Wood Carvings, and a “Kids’ Corner” that featured a tug of war rope, face painting, and an inflatable slide.
Additionally, the Buchanan Community House once again played host to the annual showcase of baked goods, produce, jellies/jams, and local art. Guests had to the chance to see what some of the community’s talented produce producers and artistic minds had on display. From applebutter to zucchinis, or fine art to photography – talent shined during this year’s county fair contest winners.
“The Farmhouse at the Fair highlights a somewhat different side of the fair than you see under the livestock tents, but keeps with the farming and agricultural roots of Botetourt County,” said Farmhouse Coordinator Jenna Lawrence. “This year we welcomed over 200 entries in categories ranging from baked goods to vegetables and fine art to woodworking. The Town Improvement Society has been so generous in allowing us to use the historic Wilson Warehouse, which has allowed us to greatly expand the displays and keep our entries in a climate-controlled environment, which we hope will keep the Farmhouse at the Fair growing each year.”
Photos by Matt de Simone
