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
Jerry Lee Lewis’s legendary career straddled both the Rock-and-Roll and Country genres. Here are our picks for the ten most memorable songs from his over 65 years of making music.
Randall Hank Williams, better known by his professional name Hank Williams Jr. or Bocephus, is the son of country music legend and icon Hank Williams.
Bookmark RFD-TV’s Winter Produce Guide list to have on hand whenever you hit your local grocery store, farmers market, or CSA to shop for fresh fruits and vegetables all season long!
Fall is one of the best times of the year when it comes to seasonal produce! Save this list to have on hand for harvest season when you hit your local grocery store, farmers market, or CSA!
Zachary Lane Bryan, aka Zach Bryan, is an American singer-songwriter from Oologah, Oklahoma. Bryan has taken the country music scene by storm since his rise to fame over the last three years.
Farm legal and taxation expert Roger McEowen discusses tariffs’ impacts on agriculture, deferred payment contracts, tax easement issues, and the rise in warrantless searches on farms and ranches.

LATEST STORIES BY THIS AUTHOR:

Weak crop margins and tariff uncertainty are delaying machinery purchases and signaling slower capital investment across U.S. agriculture.
Farm Bureau Economist Dr. Faith Parum explains the role farm safety net programs play in supporting farm finances as growers head into the 2026 planting season.
Watch AARP Live tonight at 7:30 PM ET on RFD-TV to learn more about ways to reduce expenses and make smart financial choices.
Corn demand is rising thanks to ethanol expansion, yet year-round E15 remains missing from the Farm Bill—leaving farmers questioning the policy gap.
Real Ag’s Shaun Haney explains how farmers are approaching risk management and the steps they’re taking to strengthen profitability through better financial planning.
Valley Irrigation’s Darren Siekman explains the advantages of their new pivots for growers managing acreages of up to 60 acres.
Rural Lifestyle & Entertainment Shows
Twisted Skillet brings a straightforward, hands-on approach to kitchen television, rooted in food and fire. Hosted by Texas chef Sean Koehler, the series explores open-fire outdoor cooking techniques, regional ingredients, and the people who raise, prepare, and inspire the food found across America.
Enjoy traditional country music from modern-day troubadours The Malpass Brothers. Each episode stars the brother duo of Chris & Taylor Malpass along with a featured celebrity guest– and loads of clever humor.
Join popular polka performer Mollie Busta as she hosts the weekly “Mollie B Polka Party” on RFD Network! The one-hour program features the nation’s top polka bands and a wide variety of ethnic styles, recorded on location at music festivals across the country.
Brought to you by Gus Arrendale & Springer Mountain Farms, join dynamic bluegrass duo Dailey & Vincent as they welcome scores of fabulous bluegrass, country, and gospel music acts as special guests. Loads of laughs, your favorite guests galore, and lots of good times are guaranteed. Don’t miss all the fun!
RFD-TV’s newest music series, “On the Record,” presented by John Deere, takes viewers on a journey through the heart of country music. Hosted by renowned broadcaster, Suzanne Alexander, the show features long-form interviews with today’s biggest artists and the veterans who inspired them. “On the Record” also gives viewers a front row seat to intimate performances and exclusive music video releases, highlighting the broad scope of Nashville’s talent.