The Pennsylvania Farm Show is a beloved annual tradition, and for many, the food is just as much of a draw as the agricultural exhibits and animal competitions. Across the complex, a tempting array of food vendors offers a taste of Pennsylvania’s rich agricultural heritage, with the Food Court standing out as a must-visit destination. And great news for attendees – credit card and cash are accepted at all food vendor locations, making it easy to indulge in the culinary offerings.
What is the Food Court at the PA Farm Show?
The food court at the Pennsylvania Farm Show isn’t just one location, but rather a delicious hub spread across the Expo Hall and the Main Hall. This bustling area is a highlight for many visitors, offering a diverse range of Pennsylvania-grown and Pennsylvania-made products. More than just a place to grab a bite, the food court serves a vital purpose: it generates income that directly supports non-profit Pennsylvania Agricultural Commodity Organizations. By enjoying the delicious food, visitors are contributing to the sustainability and growth of Pennsylvania’s agricultural community.
Let’s explore some of the incredible vendors you’ll find in the food court and the mouthwatering treats they offer:
A Taste of Pennsylvania: Food Vendors and Must-Try Items
The food court is organized into different vendor booths, each representing a distinct Pennsylvania agricultural commodity organization. This structure not only offers variety but also allows visitors to learn about the diverse agricultural products of the state. Here are some of the key vendors and their signature items:
PA State Beekeepers Association
For those with a sweet tooth, the PA State Beekeepers Association is a must-stop. They showcase the incredible products of Pennsylvania’s beekeeping industry.
Products for Sale:
- Honey Sweetened Ice Cream: A creamy and naturally sweet treat, highlighting the delicate flavor of Pennsylvania honey.
- Honey Sweetened Hand Cooked Waffles: Warm, crispy waffles drizzled with local honey – a comforting classic.
- PA Honey: Take home a jar of pure Pennsylvania honey, supporting local beekeepers and enjoying natural sweetness.
- Beehive products: Explore other bee-related products, from beeswax to pollen.
Alt text: Delicious honey sweetened ice cream, a popular treat at the Pennsylvania Farm Show food court, offered by the PA State Beekeepers Association.
With 1,700 registered beekeepers across Pennsylvania, this association plays a crucial role in supporting the industry. The funds raised at the PA Farm Show are invested in honeybee research at Pennsylvania colleges, promoting PA honey production, and supporting the Honey Queen program, which encourages youth involvement in beekeeping.
PA Cooperative Potato Growers, Inc.
Potato lovers rejoice! The PA Cooperative Potato Growers, Inc., the oldest potato cooperative in the United States, brings a variety of potato-based delights to the food court.
Products for Sale:
- Potato Cakes (NEW): A must-try new addition, these potato cakes are sure to be a savory sensation.
- French Fries: Classic, crispy, and always satisfying, made with Pennsylvania potatoes.
- Baked Potato & Baked Sweet Potato: Healthy and hearty options, perfect for a filling meal.
- Potato Donuts: A unique and surprisingly delicious sweet treat made from potatoes.
- Pierogis: A Pennsylvania staple, these savory dumplings are a comforting and flavorful choice.
Alt text: Freshly made potato cakes, a new and popular food item at the Pennsylvania Farm Show food court, offered by PA Cooperative Potato Growers, Inc.
Chartered in 1922, this cooperative has a long history of supporting Pennsylvania potato farmers. The funds they raise at the Farm Show are used to promote PA potatoes, support grower memberships in national organizations, fund research projects, and create promotional opportunities for Pennsylvania potato growers.
PA Dairymen’s Association
No visit to the food court is complete without experiencing the PA Dairymen’s Association. Known for their legendary milkshakes, they offer a range of dairy delights that showcase Pennsylvania’s dairy industry.
Products for Sale:
- Milkshakes: Rich, creamy, and available in various flavors, these milkshakes are an iconic Farm Show treat.
- Deep Fried Mozzarella Cheese Cubes: A cheesy and indulgent snack, served with marinara sauce.
- Grilled Cheese Sandwiches: Classic comfort food, made with locally-produced cheese.
- Locally-produced Chocolate Milk and White Milk: Fresh and flavorful milk straight from Pennsylvania dairies.
- Soft Serve Ice Cream & Sundaes: Cool and refreshing ice cream, perfect for any weather.
Alt text: Iconic milkshakes from the PA Dairymen’s Association, a must-try beverage at the Pennsylvania Farm Show food court.
The PA Dairymen’s Association is a major advocate for dairy farmers and a significant non-profit organization in the state. Their charitable work is substantial, having donated over $1 million to various programs, including youth agricultural education, scholarships, and initiatives like the Fill A Glass with Hope® fresh milk campaign for neighbors in need. The Farm Show is crucial for funding their ongoing philanthropic efforts.
PA Livestock Association
For meat lovers, the PA Livestock Association booth in the food court offers a savory selection of sandwiches and hearty meals.
Products for Sale:
- Italian Pork Loin Sandwich: Flavorful and juicy pork loin on a roll.
- Sliced Pit Beef BBQ & Pork BBQ Sandwich: Classic barbecue favorites, slow-cooked and smoky.
- Goat Sloppy Joe BBQ: A unique and tasty twist on the classic Sloppy Joe, featuring goat meat.
- Italian Sausage Sandwich: Spicy and satisfying Italian sausage in a bun.
- Boneless Texas Rib Sandwich: Tender and flavorful boneless ribs.
- Cheesesteak Sandwich: A Pennsylvania classic, featuring thinly sliced steak and melted cheese.
- Double Smoked Ham Sandwich: Rich and smoky ham piled high on a sandwich.
- Jumbo Hot Dog: A classic ballpark favorite, perfect for a quick bite.
- Lamb Stew: Hearty and warming lamb stew, ideal for a colder day.
Alt text: Delicious Italian pork loin sandwich, a savory option at the Pennsylvania Farm Show food court, offered by the PA Livestock Association.
The PA Livestock Association is dedicated to promoting and developing Pennsylvania’s livestock industry. Funds raised at the Farm Show support youth livestock programs, the Keystone International Livestock Exposition, and collegiate and youth judging teams, investing in the future of Pennsylvania agriculture.
PA Maple Syrup Producers Council
Indulge in the sweet taste of nature at the PA Maple Syrup Producers Council booth in the food court. They showcase the versatility of Pennsylvania maple syrup beyond just pancakes.
Products for Sale:
- Maple Cotton Candy & Maple Cotton Candy Mix: A light and airy treat with the distinctive flavor of maple.
- Maple Syrup: Pure Pennsylvania maple syrup in various grades and sizes.
- Maple Candy & Maple Cream: Sweet and melt-in-your-mouth maple confections.
- Maple Sundae & Maple Frozen Yogurt: Cool and creamy desserts infused with maple flavor.
- Mapleaid: A refreshing maple-flavored drink.
- Maple Mini Drops & Maple Sucker: Small and convenient maple candies for on-the-go enjoyment.
- Crumb Sugar & Cinnamon Crumb Sugar: Maple-infused sugars for baking and topping.
- Beginner Maple Kit: For those interested in learning about maple syrup production.
- Maple-themed Books & Coloring Book: Fun and educational items for all ages.
- Cookbook: Discover recipes featuring Pennsylvania maple syrup.
Alt text: Variety of maple syrup products including syrup, candy, and cotton candy at the Pennsylvania Farm Show food court, showcased by the PA Maple Syrup Producers Council.
The PA Maple Syrup Producers Council uses the income from the Farm Show to promote pure maple products throughout Pennsylvania, including sponsoring the Pennsylvania Maple Sweetheart, highlighting the importance of this natural sweetener.
PA Mushroom Farmers
Discover the culinary versatility of Pennsylvania mushrooms at the PA Mushroom Farmers booth in the food court. Pennsylvania is a leading mushroom producer, and this booth showcases innovative and delicious mushroom dishes.
Products for Sale:
- Stuffed Baby Bella Mushrooms: Savory and flavorful stuffed mushrooms, perfect as an appetizer or snack.
- Blended Mushroom Steakhouse Burger: A healthier and more sustainable burger option, blending mushrooms with beef.
- RoRo’s Mushroom Salad: A refreshing and flavorful salad featuring fresh Pennsylvania mushrooms.
- Original Breaded Mushrooms with a NEW Hot Honey Drizzle: Classic breaded mushrooms elevated with a sweet and spicy honey drizzle.
- Mushroom and Brie Bisque: A creamy and decadent soup, combining the earthy flavors of mushrooms with rich brie cheese.
- Savory Wild Mushroom Jerky: A unique and flavorful jerky made from mushrooms.
- Ready Shrooms: Conveniently packaged fresh mushrooms to take home.
Alt text: Assortment of mushroom dishes at the Pennsylvania Farm Show food court, including stuffed mushrooms and mushroom burgers, presented by PA Mushroom Farmers.
Mushroom Farmers of PA (MFPA) represents a significant portion of U.S. mushroom production. Their presence at the Farm Show helps to promote Pennsylvania mushrooms, the state’s number one cash crop, which supports thousands of jobs and contributes significantly to the state’s economy.
PA Vegetable Growers Association
For a taste of Pennsylvania’s fresh produce beyond mushrooms, visit the PA Vegetable Growers Association booth in the food court. They offer a wide range of vegetable-based dishes, from soups to fried treats.
Products for Sale:
- Chicken Corn Soup, Broccoli Cheese Soup, Vegetable Soup: Hearty and comforting soups, perfect for a warming meal.
- Batter Dipped Vegetables (onion rings, broccoli, cauliflower, zucchini): Crispy and flavorful fried vegetables.
- Strawberry Surprise: A sweet and refreshing dessert featuring Pennsylvania strawberries.
- Blooming Onion: A shareable and impressive fried onion appetizer.
- Pumpkin or Blueberry Funnel Cake: Classic funnel cakes with seasonal fruit toppings.
- Corn Nuggets: Sweet and crispy fried corn kernels.
- Raspberry Lemonade & Berry/Melon Infused Water: Refreshing and fruity beverages.
- Fried Pickles: A tangy and crunchy fried snack.
- Veggie Burger: A plant-based burger option.
- Corn Dog: A classic fair food item.
- Berry Battered Oreos: An indulgent and fun dessert.
Alt text: Hearty vegetable soup, one of the many food options at the Pennsylvania Farm Show food court, offered by the PA Vegetable Growers Association.
The PA Vegetable Growers Association represents commercial vegetable, potato, and berry growers across Pennsylvania. Their participation in the Farm Show, staffed by over 200 volunteers, raises funds that are contributed to vegetable and small fruit research projects at Penn State University, supporting innovation and growth in the industry.
State Horticultural Association
Apple lovers should head to the State Horticultural Association booth in the food court to experience the best of Pennsylvania apples and fruit.
Products for Sale:
- Apples: Fresh, crisp Pennsylvania apples in various varieties.
- Caramel Apple: A classic fair treat, apples dipped in sweet caramel.
- Cider & Cider Slushy: Refreshing apple cider and frozen cider slushies.
- Apple Butter & Dried Apples: Preserved apple products to enjoy at home.
- Cider Donut: A warm and spiced apple cider donut.
- Apple Salsa & Peach Salsa: Unique and flavorful fruit salsas.
- Apple Sauce Squeeze Pouches: Convenient and healthy applesauce for all ages.
- Apple Snitz & Apple Cotton Candy: Traditional and fun apple treats.
Alt text: Fresh apples and cider, highlighting Pennsylvania’s fruit industry at the Pennsylvania Farm Show food court, provided by the State Horticultural Association.
The State Horticultural Association booth at the Farm Show is dedicated to raising money for the apple and fruit tree industry in Pennsylvania. A major beneficiary is the fruit research lab in Biglerville, which focuses on developing new knowledge and technologies to support the future success of Pennsylvania fruit farmers.
Pennsylvania FFA Foundation
Support the future of agriculture by visiting the Pennsylvania FFA Foundation booth in the food court. They offer popular food items while raising funds for youth agricultural education.
Products for Sale:
- Pennsylvania Preferred Pizza (Various Toppings): Delicious pizza featuring Pennsylvania Preferred ingredients, in a variety of options from classic pepperoni to specialty toppings like Buffalo Chicken and Veggie Lovers. Dessert pizzas are also available.
- Lemonade & Apple Cider: Refreshing beverages.
- Chocolate Milk & White Milk: Locally-sourced milk options.
Alt text: Pennsylvania Preferred Pizza, a popular food choice at the Pennsylvania Farm Show food court, offered by the Pennsylvania FFA Foundation.
The Pennsylvania FFA Foundation’s mission is to support youth agricultural education and leadership development. Funds raised at the Farm Show help to grow and develop the future agricultural leaders of Pennsylvania through FFA programs, which empower young people through agricultural education.
PennAg Industries Association
PennAg Industries Association, Pennsylvania’s premier agribusiness association, offers a diverse menu in the food court, showcasing a range of Pennsylvania agricultural products.
Products for Sale:
- Chicken Breast Sandwich & Chicken Tenders: Classic chicken options.
- Hot Dogs & Dressed Hot Dogs: Simple and satisfying hot dog choices.
- Hardboiled Eggs (Red Beet & Mustard): A unique and protein-rich snack.
- Turkey Chili & Trout Chowder: Hearty and flavorful soups.
- Chocolate Milk & White Milk: Pennsylvania dairy options.
- Pulled Pork Sandwich & Pulled Pork Nachos: Savory and flavorful pulled pork dishes.
- Breakfast Sandwich/Pretzel Roll: A unique breakfast or anytime sandwich option.
- Chicken Parmesan Sandwich & Tilapia Sandwich & Trout Sandwich: A variety of sandwich choices to cater to different tastes.
Alt text: Chicken breast sandwich, one of the diverse food offerings at the Pennsylvania Farm Show food court, by PennAg Industries Association.
PennAg Industries Association represents a wide range of agribusinesses in Pennsylvania. While the original article doesn’t specify how funds are used, it is implied that proceeds support the association’s broader mission of promoting and supporting Pennsylvania agriculture.
Supporting Pennsylvania Agriculture with Every Bite
The food court at the Pennsylvania Farm Show is more than just a place to eat; it’s an opportunity to directly support Pennsylvania agriculture. Each vendor booth is operated by a non-profit agricultural commodity organization, and the proceeds from your purchases go directly back into these organizations. This support helps fund vital initiatives such as research, education, youth programs, and promotional activities that ensure the continued growth and sustainability of Pennsylvania’s agricultural industry.
So, as you explore the Pennsylvania Farm Show, be sure to make a stop at the food court. Indulge in the delicious flavors of Pennsylvania, knowing that every bite is a contribution to the hardworking farmers and agricultural organizations that make the state so special. Enjoy the taste of Pennsylvania!
