ALBEMARLE — Later this month, the Stanly County Agri-Civic Center is scheduled to hold its annual Agri-Civic Day, where vendors and local organizations are joined with live entertainment and a variety of activities.
With a full lineup of events scheduled from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Aug. 19, this year’s free-admission, rain-or-shine celebration of Stanly County and the agricultural heritage of the region will feature three 4H livestock shows.
“Join us in celebrating the Agri-Civic Center and the impact it has on our community with a combination of agricultural displays, educational demonstrations, vendors, live music, raffle and auction items, kid’s activities, and more,” the Agri-Civic Center announced in preparation for the event.
“We want to sincerely thank all our 2022 Agri-Civic Day Sponsors for their continued support of our organization and the work we do at the Agri-Civic Center. Each year hosts a wide variety of vendors and displays. There is something for everyone.”
Agri-Civic Day is currently set to host livestock shows at 9 a.m., 11 a.m. and 2:30 p.m., as well as sheep dog demonstrations at 10:30 a.m. and 1:30 p.m. Meanwhile, live entertainment sessions are scheduled for 10:15 a.m., 11:15 a.m., 12:15 p.m. and 1:15 p.m.
Cooking demonstrations will be held at 10 a.m. and 1 p.m., while a 50/50 raffle drawing is slated for 2:15 p.m.
All proceeds from the day will benefit the Friends of the Agri-Civic Center, a 501c3 non-profit organization designed to maintain a facility for Stanly County’s residents; the organization is dedicated to the continued improvement and long-term maintenance of the center going forward.
Agri-Civic Day is sponsored by Farm Bureau Insurance, Uwharrie Bank, Wood-Mizer Carolinas, Stanly Community College, Juneberry Ridge, among other businesses.
In addition to the upcoming event, the Agri-Civic Center Farm Bureau Livestock Arena is currently under construction and is estimated to open up behind the existing center in May 2024. A groundbreaking ceremony was held in April and attended by members of the county’s Board of Commissioners, among other local leaders.
With over a decade of planning in the works, the area has been estimated to cost $5.6 million — according to a resolution passed by the commissioners in March — and is anticipated to generate additional sales and occupancy tax revenue between $756,000 to $1.2 million.
“I was beginning to think I might not live to see it started,” livestock committee member Reggie Medlin stated on social media. “Thanks to our commissioners for their unwavering support and to Stanly County Farm Bureau and many other citizens and companies who contributed to this project. Without all your support, it would not be possible.”