What Really Wins a Blue Ribbon? Behind the Scenes at the Tennessee State Fair

The Tennessee State Fair features a variety of attractions, including rides, tasty foods, and dozens of agricultural competitions to enter and win. But what goes into picking achievements in each category?

Have you ever wondered what State Fair judges look for in a blue ribbon winner? The University of Tennessee Institute of Agriculture (UTIA) judges these contests, often before the fair gates open. UTIA reporter Charles Denney offers a behind-the-scenes look at how achievements are awarded in each category so that you can snag a coveted blue ribbon next summer.

If you’re interested in entering some categories at next year’s Tennessee State Fair, contact the extension in your county.

Related Stories
U.S. Rep. Greg Landsman and U.S. Senator Elissa Slotkin meet with Ohio farmers to discuss E15 expansion, rising input costs, trade concerns, and the need to move forward on a new farm bill.
For Chrystal Castelloe, farming is more than her job. It is a sense of freedom. The North Carolina Farm Bureau takes us to Castelloe Farms and Sale Barn Farm to learn her story.
South Texas producers remain on alert as screwworm concerns grow; sterile fly efforts underway to prevent spread.
Partnership helps power homes while supporting a fifth-generation farm
Silver fox rabbits, Belgian horses among those making a comeback
Processing slowdowns and invasive species add pressure during peak harvest

LATEST STORIES BY THIS AUTHOR:

Roger McEowen joins us to explain the USDA appeals process and how farmers should navigate adverse decisions and crop insurance disputes.
Higher input costs are making flexible marketing plans and updated break-even targets more important.
The House is moving forward with debate on the Farm Bill after a lengthy session in the House Rules Committee cleared the legislation for floor consideration.
March pork gains lifted total meat production, but first-quarter output still ran below last year.
Austin Rice with Specialty Risk Insurance shares guidance on handling storm damage, navigating the insurance claims process, and managing risk during a volatile planting season.
Eric Weaver with UNL joins us to share about a promising new HPAI vaccine, early test results, next steps in development, and its potential impact on the livestock industry.
Rural Lifestyle & Entertainment Shows
“Today’s Wild West” is a documentary-style, half-hour TV seres on all-things-Western: horseback adventures, cattle drives, dude ranches, Western art, artisans, music, movies, historic sites, Native American culture and more.
Washington farmers grow more than 300 different crops and raise a variety of different animals, and Washington is also home to some of the greatest culinary experiences in America. Whether inside the kitchen or out in the field, at the end of the day, it’s all about the food!
Journey into the lives of two hard-working farm families to see the risks, rewards, and funny shenanigans that take place every day. From cat-fishing and watermelon smashing to pig chasing and go-kart racing, there is never a dull moment on these family farms. We’ll also get a modern look at the newest cutting-edge farming techniques that are revolutionizing the industry and providing a greener and more sustainable way to grow.
As a how-to show dedicated exclusively to trucks, 4x4s and SUVs, Truck U finds monster-truck expert Matt Steele and master mechanic Bruno Massel tackling hands-on projects from DIY maintenance on pickups and SUVs, to serious off-road performance upgrades on Jeeps and ATVs.