Patrons grab a seat to enjoy all the free grub at the Taste of Ag event.

Last night the Kosciusko County Fairgrounds came alive with the sights, sounds and smells of local agriculture.

Celebrating its 17th year, A Taste of Agriculture in Kosciusko County brought droves of families out for samplings of local food, family fun and some education.

The local agricultural community hosted a free dinner consisting of cheese, pork, duck, popcorn, beef, eggs, goat cheese, salsa and chips, ice cream. In addition to the free samples, organizers gave away $1,500 in groceries, like soybean oil, honey, pies, and much more.

There were also a healthy number of educational booths, some offering fun demonstrations. Among those with booths were 4-H, Master Gardeners, Northern Indiana Pet Breeders Association, Solid Waste, goats, rabbits, FFA, horses, llamas, The Old Farmhouse, Farm Service Agency, Farm Bureau, and Denney Farms.

A chili cook-off was advertised but was cancelled due to lack of entries. The Wawasee FFA’s pedal pulled fared a little better, getting a few strapping young lads to test their might on the pedal tractors.

A scavenger hunt was held. There was the 10th annual Ag Olympics, and other activities for the kiddos. A good time seemed to be had by all.