By Andi Anderson
The Indiana Sheep Association (ISA) is excited to host sheep-themed educational opportunities and competitions at this year’s Indiana State Fair, with support from the Indiana Sheep and Wool Market Development Program (IN S&W).
In addition to the 4-H and open sheep shows, fairgoers can enjoy a variety of sheep-related activities, vendors, and educational events.
Throughout the fair, visitors can explore the Wool and Ewe Room in the Blue Ribbon Pavilion and the Ewe2 boutique located between the Indiana Farmers Coliseum and the Pop Weaver Youth Pavilion.
These spaces offer Indiana-grown wool items, livestock- and country-themed clothing, jewelry, gifts, and more.
Key events include:
Open wool judging and wool sale on August 2 at 10 a.m. in the Blue Ribbon Pavilion, where spectators can learn about wool, hear judges' comments, and ask questions.
The Make It With Wool (MIWW) competition and fashion show on August 4 at 2 p.m. in the Indiana Arts Building, showcasing handmade wool entries.
The Indiana State Fair Shearing Contest on August 4 at 5 p.m. in the Ball State University Champions Pavilion, featuring professionals and amateurs competing in shearing sheep.
Taste from Indiana Farms event from August 8-11, 11 a.m.-6 p.m., in the Indiana Farm Bureau Fall Creek Pavilion, offering free lamb samples provided by IN S&W and ISA.
The Sheep to Shawl competition on August 18 at 10 a.m. in the Indiana Arts Building, where youth teams create a wool shawl from scratch within four hours.
ISA President Jane Smith expressed pride in bringing the spirit of the sheep industry to the fair with this year’s theme of "Art and Nature." The Blue Ribbon Pavilion will showcase sheep-related art from Indiana artists, including stickers and magnets of sheep paintings donated by artist Laura Winslow, which will be handed out to 4-H winners.
These events provide a wonderful opportunity for the public to learn about sheep, purchase woolen products, and enjoy Indiana lamb. The ISA's involvement highlights the importance of the sheep industry and promotes agricultural education and awareness.
Photo Credit: istock-heebyj
Categories: Indiana, Rural Lifestyle