Hosting at the Houseparty
Extension Features Local Handiwork at Neshoba County Fair
Photo essay by Kevin Hudson
When Mississippi’s Giant Houseparty kicked off at the end of July, hundreds of exhibitors displayed thousands of items that showcase their handiwork to the Neshoba County Fair’s many visitors.
The Exhibit Hall, organized and operated by the Neshoba County office of the Mississippi State University Extension Service, annually displays the handiwork of adults and children in several categories, including fresh fruits and vegetables, field crops, food preservation, arts and crafts, posters, and food and nutrition.
Extension supplies judges for the Exhibit Hall each year, and agents organize the event and distribute entry forms and tags to individuals displaying their items. Only Neshoba County residents may enter. The youth categories are for children ages 8 to 18.
In 2017, 105 adults entered 2,193 exhibits, while 194 young people displayed 1,045 exhibits. Many of the young exhibitors are involved in the 4-H youth development program, though membership is not required to participate. Altogether, winners received a total of $13,900 honoring their work.