What are Grange and Farm Bureau groups?
The Grange is a community based organization with a long connection to rural life, and local chapters are often called halls. Farm Bureau groups are membership organizations that represent farmers and rural residents on policy and offer programs. Local chapters differ from state to state.
This guide is independent and not affiliated with any of them. For accurate descriptions, read the group's own page or ask a local officer. Do not rely on a friend's summary of what a group stands for.
The word chapter can mean different things in different organizations, and officers can change from year to year. If you want a reliable answer about what a local chapter does, ask a current officer and look for a printed page or a website you can read yourself.
- Local chapters set many of their own activities
- State organizations differ
- Membership rules vary
- Each group publishes its own mission
What do their displays usually include?
Booths often have information about the organization, local events, youth scholarships and community service projects. Some offer demonstrations such as canning, quilting or crop displays, and some run raffles or food stands.
Ask the volunteer what the booth is for. Some are educational, some recruit members and some raise money for a hall or a program. A clear answer helps you decide how to take part.
Many booths also share seasonal projects, such as food drives, scholarships for local students or road cleanup days. Ask how to take part, and whether help is needed on a one time basis. A single afternoon of help is often welcome.
How can you take part in contests they run?
Granges and farm groups sometimes sponsor contests, such as baked goods, produce, photography or youth projects. Rules are set by the sponsor, and entries may be submitted through the fair office or directly to the group.
Read the official entry form. Ask who judges, how winners are announced and whether entries are returned. If the contest is part of the fair's premium book, follow the fair's rules.
Prizes and ribbons may come from sponsors rather than from the fair. Ask who provides them, whether entries must be picked up by a certain time and who to contact if there is a question about scoring. Keep your receipt or entry tag until you have everything back.
- Check who accepts entries
- Ask how judging works
- Learn when entries are returned
- Keep copies of the form
How do you ask about membership?
Membership can come with dues, meetings and expectations of volunteer work. Ask the booth volunteer what is involved, how often the group meets and whether you can attend as a guest first. Never feel pressured to join on the spot.
Take printed information home and read it. If you are under eighteen, ask a parent or guardian to read it with you, and do not share personal details with anyone you do not know.
If a volunteer asks for your name, phone number or email, you can decline or give only what you are comfortable sharing. Ask how the information will be used, and who can see it. Children should never be asked for contact information without a parent or guardian present.
How do these groups relate to the fair?
They are independent organizations that rent or are given booth space. Their views, services and products are their own, and a booth at the fair does not mean the fair endorses them.
If you have a question about policy or advocacy, ask the group directly. If you have a question about booth rules, ask the fair office. Keeping the two apart avoids confusion.
Why do farm organizations still show up?
They provide a way for rural neighbors to meet, share knowledge and support youth. A fair offers a crowd, a place to talk and a chance to meet new members. For small halls, the fair booth can be a major fundraiser.
Visitors benefit too, since volunteers often know about local scholarships, programs and events that are not widely advertised.
Where can you learn more?
Visit the official site of the group, and ask your county extension office about farm organizations in your area. Extension staff often work alongside them and can describe what is available.
Compare more than one source before you decide. For youth programs, check with the 4-H or FFA advisor.
Key takeaways
- Grange and Farm Bureau groups are independent of the fair.
- Ask what each booth is for before you take part.
- Read contest rules from the sponsor.
- Take membership information home without pressure.
- Use extension offices for neutral local advice.
Sources and further reading
Last reviewed: November 12, 2026. Written by the County Fair & Rodeo Guide Editorial Team. See our editorial policy.