One of Columbus County’s biggest events of the year kicks off Friday, as Southern Farm Days returns the Boys and Girls Home Farm at Lake Waccamaw for the 16th year.
Sponsored by the Cape Fear Farm Heritage Association, Farm Days is a tribute to the agricultural heritage of the county and the region. In addition to dozens of antique tractors, hit-and-miss engine displays and implements, the event hosts the largest classic car and truck show of its kind in the area. More vintage commercial vehicles will be on display this year as well.
A big draw is the antique swap shop and auction. Vendors from across the region offering everything from tools and paper ephemera to toys and relics will be set up near the stables.
Volunteers will also demonstrate a variety of lost farm-life skills, including blacksmithing, open fire cooking and more. Mule teams will be plowing near the Homestead, where a functional antique sawmill is preserved by the Association. Local artisans will be selling soaps, candles and handmade leather goods along with other unique items. Visitors can also spend time at the Big M Petting Zoo, and find out about local organizations at the educational booths set up around the grounds.
Lauryn Zepeda will be back with her popular “Clicks of Confidence” horse show. Zepeda was recently inducted into the Guinness Book of World Records with one of her trained horses for performing 38 tricks in 2:47 minutes.
Antique tractor pulls and kiddie tractor pulls will take place all weekend long.
Farm Days also features one of the largest assortments of food trucks in the area, with a wide variety of vendors offering tasty treats.
Special musical guests this year are Maribella and the Pigkickers. They will perform throughout the weekend at the main stage. Other live music will be featured as well, and Farm Days is known for the impromptu jam sessions that turn up throughout the event.
Admission is $10, with children 11 and under free. Active duty military with ID are also admitted free. Only cash is accepted. All proceeds go to the Boys and Girls Home.
The event is always held at the Boys and Girls Home Farm at Lake Waccamaw. Entry gates and parking are accessed off N.C. 214 (Sam Potts Highway). Hours are Friday and Saturday, 8:30 am. until 5 p.m., and Sunday 10 a.m. – 5 p.m.
For more information, log on to www.southernfarmdays.com
