By Blake Jackson
For Bob Oberheim, the arrival of August at Rock Springs always felt like Christmas morning. After spending more than 20 years as the show manager of Ag Progress Days, Pennsylvania’s largest outdoor agricultural exhibition, Oberheim remembers the excitement and preparation that went into creating the annual event.
Throughout the year, he coordinated exhibitor plans, equipment deliveries, meetings, and countless details to prepare for the three-day showcase.
“It was like Christmas,” Oberheim, who is now retired, said. “Months ahead, you’re planning. You’re getting everything ready. You’re thinking about every detail.”
As the event approached, the Russell E. Larson Agricultural Research Center transformed into a bustling agricultural community. Machinery arrived, displays were assembled, and exhibitors prepared to welcome thousands of visitors.
“There’s always something you wish you’d remembered,” Oberheim said. “But when the gates open on Tuesday, that’s Christmas morning. The public would come in. The energy they brought — that was like opening presents.”
For three days, visitors explore new agricultural technologies, research discoveries, equipment demonstrations, livestock displays, and educational exhibits. When the event ends, crews begin dismantling the temporary setup.
“That’s when you start picking up the wrapping paper,” Oberheim said.
For more than five decades, Penn State’s Ag Progress Days has connected farmers, researchers, families, and agricultural professionals through education and innovation.
“Ag Progress Days is a place where everyone can come to learn, be inspired, and see what it takes to provide abundant, safe, and affordable food and fiber,” said Troy Ott, Peter and Ann Tombros Dean of Penn State’s College of Agricultural Sciences.
“Visitors can see how we do this while stewarding and restoring the environment, and how we drive economic development across the commonwealth through research-driven innovation and entrepreneurship.”
The 2026 event, scheduled for Aug. 11-13, will feature nearly 500 exhibits, demonstrations, research tours, animal displays, and youth activities.
Debra Gregory, a former extension educator and longtime volunteer, recalled earlier years when Ag Progress Days moved between locations. Despite changes over time, she said the event continues to bring families together.
“Ag Progress Days has changed a lot over the years with many more buildings where tents used to be,” Gregory said. “But families of all ages still come — grandparents with grandchildren, young farmers with their children.”
Photo Credit: michael-houtz
Categories: Pennsylvania, Business, Equipment & Machinery