The South Mississippi Fair is less than a month away and that means it’s time for both youth and seasoned farmers and crafters to get those exhibits ready!

With the fair taking place in Laurel from Oct. 23 through 31, quickly approaching is the deadline for both livestock and rabbit entries.  Open to youth competitors, the show is open to any 4-H or FFA member under the age of 19 who is also a resident of any county adjoining I-20 south to the Gulf Coast. Entry fees are $5 per entry until Oct. 1. After that, late entries are accepted at $15 per entry.

Showmanship awards will be given in beef, sheep, swine, goats, and rabbits. Last year, there were 300 heard of livestock entered in the show. Be sure to find out about the rules, though, because there are some medical and category requirements.

Along with the petting zoo that has quickly become one of the most popular attractions at the fair, children and adults get the opportunity to see some of the South’s best or most unique animals.

“Some people want to come and see the cattle,” Jones County 4-H Agent Kimberly Tolbert said. “A lot of kids want to come and pet them.”

Complete rules are available at the Jones County Extension Service office in Laurel. The office is located next to the Jones County Tax Assessor’s Office, or can be reached by calling 601-428-5201. The office email address is jones@ext.msstate.edu.

It’s also time to be getting those arts, crafts, and plants ready for entry. Although the deadline for entries isn’t until just before the fair begins Oct. 23, that’s only just a few shorts weeks away. This is the area to get those creative ideas going… from youth art to grandma’s canned figs, there are 153 categories in which to enter. The Master Gardiner’s co-sponsor the horticulture category, and they’re seeking more entries than ever before. Plus, members of the group will be on hand during the fair to answer questions about plants.

“They’re encouraging the public to bring more plants to display them,” Jones County Extension Service Director Brandt Nichols said.

Even though entries are judged and prizes are awarded in both the youth and adult divisions, that’s not the only reason people should enter the results of their intensive labor.

“It’s going to give people the opportunity to see stuff not everybody does anymore,” Nichols said. “It can create interest for younger generations.”

Linda Jefcoat with the Jones County Extension Service added, “Along with the bragging rights, a lot of people have hobbies. It’s a way to see what quality of items they have and enjoy other people seeing it.

“It’s sewing, it’s painting, it’s collecting bugs – just about anything. Wildlife, recycling.”

For more information on entering exhibits for the South Mississippi Fair, contact the Jones County Extension Service.