By Sara Bozich
Farm show week is always a big deal in Harrisburg. Whether you’re partial to the rodeo, the sheep to shawl competition, meeting the animals - or just pop in for the amazing milkshakes and tasty baked potatoes, the Pennsylvania Farm Show is a popular annual tradition for locals and tourists alike.
Some of my favorite sights at the include the PA Preferred Culinary Connection, which brings together celebrity chefs (including Bricco’s Jason Viscount, the Hilton Harrisburg’s John Reis and more), Pennsylvania producers and more for an event-filled week. You’ll find cooking demonstrations, taste-testing, cooking challenges and more.
There also are opportunities to sample wines from Pennsylvania’s many vineyards and wineries.
The prized food court of course has incredible Pennsylvania produced food and beverages for sale. From the famous milkshakes to the smoked trout chowder, there is something for everyone in the Food Court. Try the honey ice cream or potato donuts for something sweet. Perhaps some deep fried fresh mozzarella cubes with marinara sauce or beef brisket sandwich is more up your alley. Go hungry - there is so much to choose from, you’ll want more than one thing.
The Farm Show runs through Saturday, Jan. 14, at the Farm Show Complex in Harrisburg.
Preserving Pennsylvania Tradition
A new exhibit opens at The Hershey Story this Saturday. From Field to Feast: Pennsylvania German Food will examine 18th- and 19th-century Pennsylvania German (or Pennsylvania “Dutch” as we call it - the word for German, “Deutsch” came to be known as “Dutch”) food and culture.
The exhibit, which explores traditional Pennsylvania German harvesting, animal husbandry, food preparation and preservation features artifacts, even some purchased by Milton Hershey. Visitors also can learn about open-hearth cooking, butter making and Pennsylvania German social gatherings. A hands-on section will let children “pick” vegetables, assemble a grain puzzle, smell fresh herbs and spices and other games.
Access to the exhibit is free with Museum Experience admission.
For more information VisitHersheyHarrisburg.org