The annual Citrus County Fair is set to kick off next week, featuring a dedicated group of youths proudly wearing blue jackets with the Future Farmers of America (FFA) logo on the back. They’ll be tending to farm animals and displaying produce that they hope will win a Blue Ribbon. The Citrus chapters of the FFA have a rich history in the county, with local FFA chapters established in Florida by 1929.
The national FFA organization grew out of a movement in the Midwest during the late 1920s, with goals to create and nurture a love of country life, promote thrift, and provide recreation and educational entertainment through agricultural and athletic contests. The Florida State FFA had three levels of membership: Green Hand, Florida Farmer, and Florida Planter. Members had to pass a series of tests and achieve defined goals before they could be nominated for advancement to the next level.
The FFA movement in Florida has been thriving for nearly a century, with the organization designating the days surrounding the Washington’s Birthday holiday as “FFA Week” for special activities. The Citrus County Fair will take place from March 20-26, 2026, at the Citrus County Fairgrounds, 3051 S. Westshore Dr, Inverness, FL 34452.
Local residents can support the Future Farmers of Citrus County by attending the fair and cheering on the FFA members as they showcase their hard work and dedication to agriculture.
Originally reported by Citrus County Chronicle – Inverness
Sources: Citrus County Chronicle – Inverness
