With hay to make, machinery to repair, and cows to keep cool, this summer's farm work may seem never ending. What better way to take a break than to head out to the fair.

Many fairs may have already occurred, but there is still plenty of local, county, and state fairs to attend - with everything from dairy shows to talent competitions to butter sculptures. Of course, there is always a large variety of "fair food" you can't find anywhere else.

Many of us exhibit at fairs or have family members that do. Even if that is the case, it's still important to purchase food from the FFA food stand or watch members of your former 4-H club show their dairy animals. Having a crowd supporting the dairy show makes it more meaningful to exhibitors.

Take in the livestock auction, maybe even bid a few times! These auctions are often how young people build up their college fund or purchase new project animals and supplies. At all fairs we have an opportunity to interact with consumers.

So, grab a deep-fried Oreo and enjoy the fair! Just by attending you are helping support 4-H, FFA, and other youth groups and the lessons they teach the next generation.