By Alexandra McLaughlin
Spin a prize wheel. Plant a seed in a newspaper pot. Put on virtual reality goggles to diagnose stream health or test your agricultural knowledge using a brand-new decision-support tool powered by artificial intelligence. These hands-on experiences await visitors to the Pennsylvania Farm Show, to be held Jan. 10-17, 2026, in Harrisburg, where faculty and extension educators from Penn State’s College of Agricultural Sciences will offer interactive activities and expert guidance on topics ranging from mental wellness and food preservation to invasive species and water quality.
Penn State Extension and College of Agricultural Sciences main exhibit, Giant Expo Hall
This year, the main Penn State Extension and College of Agricultural Sciences booth in the Giant Expo Hall will participate in the AgExplorers program, featuring interactive stations designed to engage visitors of all ages. Displays at the booth will include the following:
Family well-being and mental health — Extension’s family-well-being team will offer activities supporting mental wellness across generations. Visitors can spin a prize wheel and learn about extension programs designed to strengthen family resilience.
The health and wellness team will explore connections between nutrition and mental health, highlighting brain-boosting nutrients.
Source : psu.edu