JACKSON, MS (Mississippi News Now) -
There are plenty of games, rides, and food at this year's state fair, but there's also a large competition to be the best.
Children representing 4-H and The Future Farmers of America organizations are showing their best cattle.
There are a number of categories in which the contestants and the animals are judged. Many fairs across the state have their roots agriculture. It also gives those who don't work on a farm, a unique perspective on the state's leading industry.
"You want to know where you food comes from and it's really great when you even meet the person who grew it. You know, whether it's fruits and vegetables or your livestock," said the Commissioner of Agriculture & Commerce, Cindy Hyde-Smith.
"It's very interesting to people that don't have animals because they don't have the chance to see them every day, and I know just by watching them walk by that it really lights them up," said Emily Vowell, who's showing cows at the fair.
Agriculture is a seven billion dollar business for the state.
Later in the week there will be pig, sheep, and goat showing contests at the fair.
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