By Brooke Cannon, 2026 Sunbelt Ag Expo Social Media Intern
With the theme “Driving Agribusiness Forward,” the 2026 Sunbelt Ag Expo combines the latest agricultural innovations with hands-on demonstrations, educational experiences, and the Southern traditions visitors look forward to each year.
With returning activities, a variety of food options and new opportunities for young visitors, this year’s Expo offers plenty of reasons to explore something different.
One exciting feature returning this year is the kids’ practice fishing pond. Young visitors can grab a fishing rod, practice their casting skills, and enjoy a hands-on outdoor experience while at the Expo.
Beyond the fun, the fishpond also offers opportunities to learn about aquaculture, pond management, and aquatic life. Daily casting practice is available from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., giving families another reason to make the fishponds a stop on their Expo adventure.
The excitement continues beyond the exhibits, especially when it comes to food. With 20 food vendors featured this year, visitors can explore a variety of options, from Southern barbecue and savory favorites to international flavors and homemade desserts.
Whether stopping for lunch between demonstrations or treating themselves to something sweet, attendees can discover new flavors, support regional businesses, and find a new favorite along the way.
The future of agriculture is another major focus of the 2026 Expo. This year introduces the NextGA Youth Innovation Challenge, giving students in grades 9 through 12 a chance to put their creativity and technology skills to work.
The challenges encourage students to develop innovative ideas that address agricultural needs and contribute to the industry’s future. By combining creativity, problem-solving, and agricultural technology, the program helps connect the next generation with real-world opportunities in agriculture.
Visitors can also explore agriculture beyond Georgia through this year’s Spotlight State Building, which features South Carolina. The exhibit highlights the state’s diverse agricultural industries and the producers who contribute to its economy, offering attendees a chance to learn more about agriculture across the Southeast.
For livestock producers, educational opportunities continue with renowned livestock handling expert Curt Pate during Stockmanship and Stewardship sessions. These sessions focus on practical, low-stress livestock handling techniques, providing producers with useful knowledge they can take back to their own operations.
From the return of family-friendly activities to new opportunities for young innovators, a variety of food choices and educational experiences, the 2026 Sunbelt Ag Expo offers something for visitors of all ages and interests.
Make plans to visit the Sunbelt Ag Expo, explore what is new this year, and celebrate the people, ideas, and traditions that keep agriculture moving forward.
