[benefits of growing fruit and vegetables]
[church]
[sweeper]
[wash bowl]
[brown cotton]
[cornmeal]
[fresh butter] 
[school house]
In October, when skies are bluer and the air is crisp with Fall’s first touch, the enthusiastic crowds, larger than ever, once again flow through the front entrance into our beautiful fair grounds to enjoy the spectacle of the Washington Parish Free Fair.
Since its humble beginning in 1911 in a local livery stable, this county/parish fair has steadily grown bigger and better each successive year. Today, based upon attendance records, it is believed to be the largest county/parish free fair in the USA. It is the second oldest Parish Fair in Louisiana.
It is a family fair. They come from all over the country to enjoy the wholesome virtues characterized by Wiley Wit and imagination cemented with a strong enthusiasm, cooperation and genuine concern for the cultural, educational and economic advancement of the parish.
They come to enjoy the excellent exhibits of cut flowers, homemaking, livestock and agricultural products. Then there is Old McDonald’s Farm, and the activities that never seem to cease on the stage. They come to experience the magic of the Midway and the excitement of the PRO Rodeo, and even to just sit a spell under one of the tall pine trees and enjoy the good food.
In addition to all these attractions there is the Authentic Historical Pioneer Village, the Mile Branch Settlement. Here the visitor will be heartily welcomed by the many costumed hosts and experience a trip into our past as he visits the various log cabins and buildings filled with antiques and hospitality. One will feel free to sit a while on one of the broad porches or tap ones feet to the music.
It’s our opportunity to experience many pioneer activities typical of the Louisiana piney woods in the 1800’s. It is a visit one will not soon forget.
This fair is organized, designed and produced by hundreds of local volunteers who have given freely of their time and talents for generations. At a glance one wonders what makes this fair so special or different from the hundreds of other fairs throughout our land. This intangible quality, recognized by all, yet curiously unexplained, has given our fair its national reputation. The indisputable fact that this county/parish fair is different and is truly special is the reason our visitors come back year after year.
It is an experience one will not want to miss.
