The North Georgia State Fair – Beyond the Booth, Into the Harvest

Written By Info | SageD Collective

The scent of funnel cake and the glow of colorful lights highlighting rides and games–these are the familiar hallmarks of statewide fairs and festivals happening in communities across Georgia. Our team had the pleasure of experiencing two such crowd-capturing events: the North Georgia State Fair in Marietta and the Georgia National Fair in Perry. 

Beyond the lights and laughter, these Fairs and festivals represent something much deeper: a celebration of the hands, hearts, and traditions that make Georgia’s agricultural community thrive.

It felt like a homecoming—a return to childhood experiences, where individual achievements and collective pride meet in one joyful, vibrant space. As we walked through the exhibits, we saw more than perfect produce and prize-winning livestock. We saw stories—of generations passing down knowledge, of young people learning by doing, and of families building legacies rooted in care for the land. Every display, every greeting, every shared smile reminded us that a healthy food system grows from relationships, stewardship, and shared purpose.

Cultivating the Next Generation of Leaders

Among the highlights was the inspiring presence of Georgia 4-H, whose young leaders embodied the essence of legacy leadership. Their dedication to agriculture, science, and civic engagement was visible everywhere—from the show ring to display tables where innovative ideas and practices were shared.

Watching these emerging leaders engage with such confidence and curiosity affirmed what we already know: investing in the next generation is essential to our collective future. Their work reflects the values we hold dear—building community, collaborative growth, and honoring the wisdom of those who paved the way while courageously shaping what comes next with curiosity and creativity.

In Celebration of the Harvest

Our time at the Fair was more than an expression of our partnership with Georgia Grown; it was a celebration of shared purpose. Our common goal is to engage as many people as possible in the opportunity to co-create the spaces we all wish to live and grow together.  Festivals, fairs, and themed events strengthen Georgia’s agriculture ecosystem by providing opportunities for connection, information, and joy. In addition, food producers and other value-added vendors who are members of Georgia Grown are able to offer their goods and services to a captive audience.

As we look ahead, we’re excited to continue to share the current benefits of Georgia Grown membership while helping curate additional opportunities for community and economic development across Georgia.  These seasonal gatherings offer rich opportunities to learn, collaborate, and grow, through hands-on workshops, shopping experiences, and potential for new partnerships.

If you’re interested in getting involved or learning more about upcoming opportunities, we’d love to hear from you. Reach out anytime at hello@sagedcollective.com.

Check out some of the upcoming fairs and festivals around the state:

Info | SageD Collective
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