HUTCHINSON, Kan. — The Kansas State Fair may be canceled for the year but patrons who enjoy some of the things you can buy at the fair will get that chance starting September 11th.
The Kansas Department of Agriculture’s, From the Land of Kansas, and its member companies will be exhibiting in a virtual state fair-like experience, September 11-20, to showcase Kansas products.
The virtual experience, called Purple Ribbon Marketplace, will feature special deals like half-off shipping, as well as fun and interactive opportunities to learn about Kansas agriculture businesses and the stories behind them. KDA created a Facebook group, and launched it on August 28 to begin sharing the stories about its members before product sales begin on September 11.
Since the cancellation of the Kansas State Fair due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the program wanted to find an alternative way to showcase these Kansas businesses and offer consumers the opportunity to purchase local products.
“This will be an easy way for these businesses to remain connected with consumers so they can enjoy high-quality food and unique products and share with their family and friends,” Janelle Dobbins, From the Land of Kansas program director said. “This virtual format will allow for more interaction, and, of course, the special state fair offers we all love.”
A variety of Kansas products will be offered through the Purple Ribbon Marketplace including popcorn, cheese, sunflower oil, coffee, spice and dip mixes, sauerkraut, and honey. A local distillery will also be selling their hand sanitizer.