By Bethany Champion, ABAC Agricultural Communication, May 2025 graduate
When you think of Sunbelt Ag Expo, the facility grounds in Moultrie, Georgia, where the premier event takes place probably comes to mind. While this is undeniably the best place to be during Expo week, the impact of the farm show reaches far beyond its facilities. Expo provides a huge economic boost for all South Georgia communities.
Expo plays a vital role in the Moultrie community. Residents are excited and eager to experience Expo each year. This event is such an integral part of the community that students are often let out of school for it.
Expo provides events for individuals of all ages to do and see. With agriculture playing a major role in the south, it comes at no surprise that people come from all over the Southeast to experience this event.
Tifton, Adel, Thomasville, and Valdosta are just a few of the communities that are positively impacted. In fact, hotels within an hour radius of Moultrie are booked a year in advance, providing a large contribution to the positive financial impact on the community.
John Alec McKinnon is the General Manager of the Springhill Suites in Tifton, Georgia.
“This annual event creates significant demand in our market and surrounding markets and allows hotels to drive room rates,” said McKinnon. “The majority of this demand is returning business that often books a year in advance.”
Restaurants and retail stores gain customers all week from out of town guests, exhibitors, farmers, businesses, and attendees, whether they are shopping for pleasure or enjoying a delicious meal.
Many Expo attendees return year after year. Because of the relationships they have established, they use this week to reconnect with old friends at a dinner, visit their old-trusted business vendors, or take an evening stroll in downtown Moultrie. The Southern hospitality that South Georgia demonstrates continues to provide a pleasant experience for the many visitors during this week.
Angela Elder is the Tifton Tourism Assistant Coordinator. She has personally experienced the positive impact Expo brings to the Tifton community.
“We have found that the impact made on a person when they may be traveling for business will carry over into the decisions they make when traveling for leisure,” said Elder. “Having this annual event in our area helps us to stay top of mind to travelers!”
Because of the pleasant atmosphere and convenient location off of Interstate 75, exhibitors and attendees come back and book a stay in Tifton year after year.
When visiting Expo this year, take some time to relax and enjoy the surrounding community. Book a stay at a hotel nearby, enjoy lunch with an old friend, and visit the shops in downtown Moultrie and the surrounding communities. You can’t go wrong exploring charming South Georgia. This community truly appreciates your presence and hopes to see you back next year!
