LEE COUNTY – The Southwest Florida Ag Expo is back, bringing a lively mix of livestock shows, live music and classic fair food to celebrate the region’s agricultural roots.
County Commissioner Trish Petrosky said, “This is our third year running the Ag Expo, completely ran by the county, and we are totally in love with it and the counties and the community has been so supportive and appreciative.”
Petrosky also encouraged everyone to “come see the rides. We have them for all ages and then we have all sorts of entertainment that will be walking throughout the yard.”
The expo features a revitalized 4-H program where kids raise animals to show and auction off. Fairgoer Veronica Klein described the event as “amazing” and said it’s “just way better, rides, scarier, funner.”
Vendor Andre Bulluck shared his enthusiasm, saying, “We got ribs, baked beans, collard greens, macaroni cheese, fried okra, sweet potato, fries, beef brisket, chopped pork, filet mignon on a stick and um, jumbo turkey legs.” He added, “I like the entertainment of entertaining the people. So this gives me a great opportunity to express myself and express my great food that we cook for people.”
Park goer Rover Llgove said, “It good for the kids and family to come out here and have a good time with the family.” He added, “You see different things. You eat different foods. They have good knowledge out here. They teach the kids how they supposed to be treated.”
Warren Blasich, an employee for 43 years, said, “I’ve been here for 43 years and I help kids with educational kids and if you’re doing good in school, I give you bigger prizes and discounts every year. If you’re an honor roll student. You get half price on any price that I have.”
The Southwest Florida Ag Expo runs through March 8. Tickets are available online or at the door. Gates open Monday through Friday at 4:00 p.m. and Saturday and Sunday at 11:00 a.m.