By Andi Anderson
The Indiana State Fair kicks off on August 2, featuring the theme “The Art & Nature of Fun” in collaboration with Newfields. Purdue Extension will be present, offering fairgoers the chance to learn about various agricultural and nature-related topics.
Representatives from Purdue University will be available year-round through Purdue Extension to discuss these topics.
“Purdue Extension is excited to once again be part of the 2024 Indiana State Fair. It’s a wonderful opportunity to celebrate the accomplishments of 4-H youth from across the state and to showcase our diverse programs,” said Angie Abbott, interim director of Purdue Extension and associate dean in the College of Agriculture. “This event provides the opportunity to engage with stakeholders from across Indiana, offering attendees the chance to learn about sustainable practices and healthy lifestyles through our interactive demonstrations and activities. We are particularly looking forward to the educational exhibits at the Purdue Extension Building, where attendees can connect with various Extension experts and engage with rotating interactive displays.”
The Purdue Extension Building, located on the north side of the fairgrounds, will feature activities for all ages that align with the fair’s theme.
Highlights include:
Block Party: Children ages 8 months to 8 years can engage in block play to enhance school-readiness skills.
Book Party: Focuses on math skills, a crucial predictor of academic achievement.
Captain Cash: Learn smart money management and basic financial skills.
Engage with Purdue Extension Specialists: Interact with experts in fields such as entomology, human health, forestry, natural resources, and animal sciences.
Master Gardener: Discover annuals and vegetables suited to Indiana’s climate and learn proper care techniques.
Pollinators: Learn about the essential role of pollinators in food and flower production.
Additional Purdue events during the fair include:
Food Science Fun: On August 7, from 1-7 p.m. EDT, the Food Science Department will host “What’s Growing on My Spinach?” in the Purdue Extension Building. This interactive activity explores food microbiology, demonstrating essential food safety measures. Participants will plate bacteria from spinach leaves onto petri dishes to observe microbial growth.
The food science team will also offer samples of “Cricket Rice Krispies Treats” and engage in discussions about alternative proteins and the use of insects in food. Additionally, the Food Entrepreneurship and Manufacturing Institute will share insights and distribute samples of Boilermaker Hot Sauce, developed by Purdue students.
Seed Art: Seed art will be showcased in each livestock barn, visually representing the fair’s theme. Children can place seeds on art boards, learning about animals’ diets and nutritional needs. The Purdue Extension Building will feature seed art illustrating various agricultural topics.
Pioneer Village: Sponsored by the Purdue Ag Alumni Association, Pioneer Village transports fairgoers to the 1800s. Located between the Machinery Field and the MHS Family Fun Park, the village offers antique tractors, a farm toy show, contests, and the Opry House.
For more information and to engage in these activities, visit the Indiana State Fair and the Purdue Extension Building from August 2 through August 18.
Photo Credit: purdue-university
Categories: Indiana, Education