Southwest Florida Ag Expo underway
The Southwest Florida Ag Expo opened Thursday, bringing all the traditional exhibits, fair food, rides — and crowds — to the Lee County Civic Center.
The ceremonial ribbon-cutting kicked off an 11-day revolving schedule of fun-filled entertainment and activities that will run through March 9 at the old fair grounds off Bayshore Road in North Fort Myers. More than 30,000 attended the Lee County organized event in the first four day, with spending by “up significantly,” county officials said Tuesday
Among those attending opening weekend were Kassie Kelly 22, and Braxton Ruhstorfer 25, who turned out Friday night which offered Moonlight Madness with unlimited ride wristbands.
“What I love most about the fair is the unique variety of foods you can find there,” Kelly said. “Typically, you have to wait for the fair to arrive in town to enjoy them, such as peanut butter and jelly hotdogs, which I found quite unusual.”
In addition to the assortment of food choices was diverse entertainment and music as well as livestock demonstrations and exhibits, all of which Ruhstorfer enjoyed.
“My favorite part of the fair would be the atmosphere and how it takes different aspects of culture from food, music and the live shows,” Ruhstorfer said. “I would say that the fair could add a bit more live shows. Porkchop Revenue was very entertaining for families and educational on pigs.”
Livestock exhibits, demonstrations and contests — including wheelbarrow decorating, hay bale decorating and various booth competitions — put the ag in the expo. The Porkchop Review and Barnyard Crew was among the expo’s shows and attractions.
As a first-time attendee, Ruhstorfer had some advice to share.
“Make sure you ride all the spinning rides before you eat,” Ruhstorfer said. “Check out the entire fairground before you decide what you would like to eat because there are so many options in every direction, and if you’re looking to do a lot of rides purchase a wristband,” he said.
Kelly also had a suggestion for organizers for next time.
“I think it would be wonderful to include more local food vendors and trucks at next year’s fair,” Kelly said. “This would not only support local businesses but also give us a chance to discover the delicious options available in our community.”
Terry Olian, 22, attended with several friends.
“My favorite part of the fair has essentially been the rides and being able to get onto them and ride with my friends,” Olian said. “Usually, at almost any fair I go to, I get the funnel cakes; you have to get at least one funnel cake there.”
He was among the veteran attendees.
“I’ve been to the fair a few times. I’d probably say about eight, and I’ve been going to all the county fairs in Cape Coral/ Fort Myers for years,” Olian said. “Just hanging out with those friends or family members makes it a ton of fun.”
Spencer Bradley, who was working the Eudora Wildlife petting zoo, was also a return participant.
He likes the energy the expo brings to families.
“Well, we’ve been coming here for about a decade, and we’re always looking forward to coming back,” Bradley said. “I know it’s a little cheesy, but I loved most all the families enjoying themselves. I’m here for a day off, whether it’s a weekday or weekend, and everyone wants to come out having fun.”
With all the food at the fair, Bradley had a favorite.
“I know that everyone loves a funnel cake, but I like the deep-fried Oreos,” Bradley said.
Would would Bradley like to see for maybe next year?
“Every fair needs a good pig race,” Bradley said. “They’re always fun, and they’ve got a good show.”
This year’s silver sponsors include Creel Tractor Company, Reithoffer Shows, and Lightning Wireless Solutions.
Promotions, including special entry days with and without ride wristbands, will continue through Sunday.
The Lee County Civic Center Complex is at 11831 Bayshore Road.
Overflow parking will be used during peak times during the Ag Expo. LeeTran shuttles will transport attendees back and forth to the Lee County Civic Center.
The Lee County Civic Center Complex is at 11831 Bayshore Rd., North Fort Myers.
For more information, including a remaining promotions, entertainment, exhibits and demonstrations, visit swflagexpo.com.
To reach JOHNATHAN MINEHAN, please email news@breezenewspapers.com