2023 Ag Games draws high number of participants

PALMER — Dozens of Alaska State Fair visitors participated in the annual Ag Games at the Craig Taylor Farm Exhibits area Thursday, Aug. 25.

Contestants compete in various farm inspired contests such as butter churning, potato catching, and hay bale throwing. This event is free and open to the public so any fairgoer to put their skills to the test.

"It was fun. It's a great time," Event emcee/TBA Theater Inc. Associate Director Erin Mitchell said.

Butte resident Mark Pratt won the hay toss competition. He said that he participates every year and this was the second time he won this event.

"It's a great event for the family and it gets people interested in agriculture," Pratt said.

Mitchell has been involved with the Ag Games for over two decades. She said the event has continued to grow in popularity over the years. She said it effectively balances fun games with the Fair's agricultural roots.

"It's this agriculture community and this ties to that," Mitchell said.

Mitchell said this is an ideal activity for the whole family and they see numerous returning households.

"I think that's one of the things that makes it my favorite,"

One of the most popular events is the butter churning contest.

"Everybody who participates gets something out of it. They can all take butter home with them," Mitchell said.

Mitchell marveled at the Fair's event team for putting on so many free and fun activities for all ages.

"I think they do a great job," Mitchell said. "I think it's the best secret that should not be a secret."

Contact Mat-Su Valley Frontiersman reporter Jacob Mann at jacob.mann@frontiersman.com