Join beloved Wisconsin author and storyteller Jerry Apps as he weaves together the over 180-year history of Wisconsin fairs through his memories as a 4-H leader, fair judge, and lifelong fairgoer.
Jerry Apps: Meet Us at the Fair premiers Monday, March 3 at 7 p.m. on PBS Wisconsin. This documentary will showcase the heartfelt perspectives of fairgoers young and old. The film explores the significance that the fair represents for agricultural communities — especially within 4-H — and celebrates the dedication and rewarding experiences of these communities.
“It’s hard to put into words the kind of relationship that develops between an animal and a person when you are preparing it for the county fair … They come to respect you; you come to respect them,” Apps says.
He shares not only how fairs have evolved over the decades but also the fundamental ways in which the fair is a part of the state’s identity.
“Fairs go way beyond just something for farmers,” Apps says. “In my judgement, fairs are one way of helping bring rural and urban America together … That’s the natural way of coming together, and fairs allow for that.”
The program will also be available shortly after the premiere: https://pbswisconsin.org/
