News

Western Farm Show features truck, tractor pulls and demonstrations

The 2016 Western Farm Show is February 26-28 at the American Royal Complex in Kansas City.  In its 55th year, the show features over 500 exhibitors under one roof.  Exhibited will be farm and ranch equipment, farm structures, crop production products, ag services and more.

“The Western Farm Show not only introduces farmers and ranchers to our industry’s newest products and technologies, but also provides other attractions that are both fun and informative,” said Ken Dean, show manager. “We’re very proud to continue that tradition in 2016 as we mark the show’s 55th consecutive year.”

Features of the Western Farm Show include the Championship Tractor Pull, and Outlaw Truck and Tractor Pulling, expected to draw 120 drivers and vehicles. That’s held Friday and Saturday nights, Feb. 26-27, at Kemper Arena, adjacent to the American Royal.

The Taste of Home Cooking School is at 11 a.m. and 1 p.m. Saturday, Feb. 27, in the Wagstaff Theater, presented by professionally trained culinary specialists demonstrating recipes, cooking techniques, practical kitchen tips and simple plating ideas.

Low-Stress Livestock Handling Demonstrations are sponsored by MFA Incorporated, at 10:30 a.m. and 2 p.m. on Saturday, Feb. 27, in the Scott Pavilion adjacent to the American Royal Complex. The demonstrations are led by Ron Gill, Texas AgriLife Extension Specialist, focusing on improving the well-being of beef and dairy cattle, as well as their handlers, through humane animal care.

The Health & Safety Roundup, coordinated by the Missouri Farm Bureau featuring free blood pressure and hearing tests, vision screening, tetanus shots and, for a nominal fee, cholesterol screening.

FFA Day is Friday, February 26.  An expected 3,000 FFA students from Missouri and Kansas will participate in the annual “Border War” Food Drive with collections to be donated to Harvesters Community Food Network.  FFA students also have the opportunity to learn about educational and career opportunities in agriculture.

The Family Living Center offers clothing, crafts, food, health and home décor products.

The Western Farm Show is owned and managed by the Western Equipment Dealers Association, formerly the SouthWestern Association.  Show hours are from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. on both Friday and Saturday, and from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Sunday. Adult admission is $8 and free for children 12 and under. All attractions are free to show attendees, except for the Championship Tractor Pull which has a separate admission.

There’s more information at WesternFarmShow.com.

AUDIO: Ken Dean (12 min. MP3)