Our Story Begins at the County Fair

From the woolly backs of sheep at our local county fair to the deep connections we’ve built on our family farm, our story runs deep with tradition. For my husband and I, it all started at that very county fair, where we met among the bleats and baa’s of livestock, figuring out our next moves in life. Now, watching our boys take those same steps, handling their animals with a mix of nerves and excitement, it reminds me of how life comes full circle. The passion that brought us together is now being passed down to them.

Farm Decisions with the Future in Mind

Our story is rooted in those fairgrounds, and as we’ve grown, so has our farm. Every decision we make on the farm, whether it’s about how we care for our animals or how we handle the land, is made with the future in mind. We want to make sure this way of life continues, not just for us, but for our kids and their kids. That’s what succession planning means to us—not just planning for the business, but making sure the heart of the farm, and all the traditions that go with it, keep going strong. It’s about passing down the things that matter, like hard work, respect for the land, and caring for the animals.

Fewer Kids Participating: What’s at Stake

But lately, we’ve noticed fewer kids showing up at the fair, not just here, but across the state. It’s not just about the numbers—this shift feels like a sign of something bigger. We’re losing the chance to pass down those important life lessons that come from showing livestock and being part of the fair community. Responsibility, hard work, resilience—these are things you can’t learn from a screen, but kids pick them up naturally when they’re caring for animals and working toward a goal.

We get it—life has changed. More families are living in cities, and people are more disconnected from farming and agriculture. Kids today are busy with all kinds of digital distractions, and parents are, too. It’s a lot easier to stay home than to load up the family and the animals and head to the fair. But that disconnection worries me because these fairs are more than just events—they’re where we come together, learn from each other, and build a real sense of community.

Valuable Life Lessons and The Importance of Community and Tradition

When our kids show their animals, they’re learning more than just how to care for them. They’re learning about teamwork, responsibility, and what it means to see something through. It’s also about understanding the bigger picture—how what we do on the farm affects the land, the animals, and the environment. It’s about taking care of things the right way and knowing why it matters.

For us, the fair has always been more than just a place to compete. It’s where my husband and I met, and where friendships formed over years of showing sheep. Now, we’re watching our boys form those same kinds of bonds. They’re learning to work hard, to handle the ups and downs of competition, and to respect the animals they care for.

Mental Health Benefits for Families

But beyond the lessons in farming, I can’t ignore how important these traditions are for mental well-being—for both the kids and the parents. Preparing for the fair and being part of something bigger than yourself helps keep you grounded. It’s a break from the fast pace of everyday life, and it’s something we can all look forward to. The work is hard, no doubt about it, but there’s so much joy in it, too. That feeling of accomplishment when the kids walk their animals into the ring is something that sticks with them, and us, long after the fair is over.

Succession Planning: More Than Business

This kind of involvement doesn’t just support the farm or the business side of things. It’s about making sure these traditions keep going—because they’re what bring people together. Succession planning isn’t just about passing down land or assets; it’s about handing down the love for this way of life. It’s about making sure our kids grow up with the same work ethic, the same sense of community, and the same appreciation for what it takes to raise animals and care for the land.

Behind every kid leading their sheep or steer in the arena is a family and a community backing them up. We’re all in this together, from the late-night barn checks to early morning chores, to loading up the trailer and heading out to the fair. And those kids? They’re learning how to deal with disappointment, how to care for something other than themselves, and how to communicate when things get tough—all things that will help them in every part of life, not just in farming.

Looking to the Future

I’ve seen firsthand how important community support is in making this all work. From local businesses sponsoring events to older farmers advising the next generation, it takes a village to keep these traditions alive. When we all come together like this, it’s about more than just putting on a fair—it’s about keeping the community strong and building connections far beyond the fairgrounds.

As we think about the future, we’re always trying to make choices that benefit our family and the whole community. The county fair is a big part of that. It’s more than just a competition—it’s a celebration of everything we’re working for. It’s a place where we can all come together, share what we know, and support each other. It’s a reminder of why we do what we do and why keeping these traditions alive is so important.

So, as we keep moving forward, let’s make sure we invite more families to join in. Let’s get more kids involved, more people excited, and keep these fairs going strong. It’s not just about keeping a tradition alive—it’s about making sure we’re all building something healthy and positive for the future. When we plan for tomorrow, we’re ensuring that the values we hold dear today will keep growing, nurturing both the land and the community for generations to come.

by Alyssa Zube, LCSW

______________________________________________________________________________

Alyssa Zube is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker providing therapy virtually in Wisconsin and Minnesota for individuals facing challenges related to anxiety, depression, perinatal and postpartum wellness, and life changes.  Alyssa and her family run Riverside Ranch which is nestled among the bluffs along the Mississippi River in Southwest Wisconsin. Her family raises registered Shropshire Sheep and club lambs.

Follow Alyssa on Facebook:

Ridge + Valley Counseling: https://www.facebook.com/randvcounseling

Riverside Ranch: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61557008347092

Website: https://ridgeandvalleycounselinginc.com/