The Pennsylvania Department of Agriculture is nearly done “decking the halls” of the State Farm Show Complex and Expo Center in Harrisburg for the 102nd Pennsylvania Farm Show. It’s ready for the flood of animals, exhibits and crowds coming to celebrate agriculture.

Billed as the largest indoor ag event in America, the farm show has 24 acres under roof, spread throughout 11 buildings and three arenas. Officials expect more than 500,000 spectators; some 5,200 animals; more than 10,000 competitive exhibits plus about 300 commercial, organizational, state and academic exhibitors at the eight-day event.

The show officially runs from Saturday through Saturday, but it’s early open for livestock judging on Friday, Jan. 5. Click on Pennsylvania Farm Show competition for a short list of livestock-oriented events.

One special event is set for Thursday, Jan. 11. The ag department and the state’s Department of Military and Veterans Affairs will host Veterans, Military, and Their Families Day.

“Two percent of our population feeds us and 2% of our population protects us,” says Russel Redding, Pennsylvania agriculture secretary. “Our servicemen and women not only sacrifice for our country, they develop skills that transfer extremely well to agriculture careers when they return home. They bring a diversity of perspective that strengthens our industry. We are honored to highlight veterans’ service to our country and to the agriculture industry during [Pennsylvania] Farm Show.”

Show hours are 8 a.m. to 9 p.m. Jan. 6-12 and 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Jan. 13. Admission is free, and parking is $15 at two remotely located lots. Buses run continuously to and from the lots. For more details, visit Farm Show's website.