It's time for the annual Morgan County Antique Machinery Show... what's that? You've never been and aren't sure why you'd be interested? No worries, we've got you covered. So, without further ado here are the top 10 reasons to attend this fun (and free!) annual event on June 26 and 27 at the Morgan County Fairgrounds:
# 10
You're still a kid at heart.
In addition to all of the event's other offerings, you'll find a treasure trove of toys inside the 4-H Building at the Fairgrounds. In addition to life-sized models, there's also a concurrent TOY Tractor Show going on inside! Take a look at how toys have changed over the years.
# 9
You've seen some of that old stuff before, but have NO idea what it was for or how it worked.
You'll be able to impress your friends (or your grandparents) with your newfound knowledge after attending this event!
# 8
You love a good story (or several).
People love to talk about their collection and every piece of machinery at this show has a story behind it!
# 7
Watching the steam puff out of these shiny old steam engines is just somehow very satisfying.
You can literally see the care that's taken to keep these old beauties running smoothly.
# 6
You love a good swap meet.
This event's got one and believe me - you never know what you'll find until you get there! It's treasure hunting at its finest.
# 5
You love the Morgan County Fair homemade ice cream booth and you can't wait until the end of July to get some.
Yes, for those of you who have never been to the Morgan County Fair, it's THAT good. (Don't worry - the Young Farmers of Morgan County run the booth for this event and they've assured us it's the same recipe.)
# 4
You want your kids to know how people used to do things, you know - before iPhones.
# 3
You really like tractors, perhaps those of a particular color... (We won't judge - even if you prefer the green ones.)
Don't miss the Annual Tractor Drive on Saturday, beginning at 5 pm and featuring tractors of all shapes, sizes and colors.
# 2
Your kids are fascinated by how things work.
It may not be new technology, but it still counts as, well... STEAM (AKA Science, Technology, Engineering, Art, Math) and they might accidentally learn something!
# 1
Tractor powered sawmill demonstrations are just cool.
(Go ahead, try to argue - we've got proof!)
IF YOU GO:
This will be a busy weekend in Martinsville, so here's the scoop on other events you might want to check out:
Summer weekends kick off on Thursdays here in Martinsville, so if you come early, be sure to check out the Cruise-in on the Square on Thursday evening, beginning at 5 pm.
The Morgan County Farmers Market will take place on Saturday morning from 9 am to 1 pm on the lawn at The Main Connection, 460 South Main Street. This includes locally grown and locally crafted items as well as tasty treats such as cinnamon rolls and breakfast cookies.
There are two fantastic outdoor concerts that weekend at the Morgan County Fairgrounds in Martinsville. On Friday, Justin Moore will perform along with special guests Heath Sanders, Bigg Country and Split Rail. Music starts at 7 pm. On Saturday, four fun rock tribute bands will take the stage beginning at 5 pm. Featured bands are Panama (Van Halen), Freebird (Lynyrd Skynyrd), Heartache Tonight (Eagles) and The System (Bob Segar). Refreshments will be available on site for both shows, including locally crafted wine and beer from Cedar Creek. Tickets available online. What a great way addition to an already fun visit to Morgan County. It also makes a great reason to snag a room and make it a whole weekend!
As we said above, there will be food on site at the Antique Machinery Show, but if you're looking for a quiet, sit-down meal in a locally-owned establishment, here are some recommendations in downtown Martinsville:
21 North Eatery & Cellar is located on Jefferson Street on the courthouse square. Their chef-inspired cuisine and full bar makes it the perfect place to relax. Open Saturdays from 11 am to 11 pm and Sundays for brunch from 10 am to 2 pm.
Come N Git It Diner is located on the courthouse square at Morgan and Main Streets. They serve breakfast (all day!) and lunch and are open on Saturdays from 9 am to 3 pm.
Gather Around BBQ is just off the square on Main Street and offers all your favorite BBQ options - pulled pork, ribs, chicken and even catfish! Open Saturdays from 11 am to 10 pm and Sundays 11 am to 9 pm. Patio seating is available (and dog-friendly!).
Greeks Pizzeria & The Groggy Goat Tap Room, located at the corner of Main and Morgan Streets, is a crowd pleaser for all ages. Pizza for the kids, a great craft beer selection for Mom and Dad... everyone wins! Patio seating available.
Los Reyes, on the corner of Washington and Main Streets on the downtown square offers authentic Mexican flavors in a fun atmosphere. They are open for lunch and dinner.
The Waffle Whitch is less than a block off the square on North Main Street and offers a unique twist on your favorite sandwiches, plus homemade soups and tasty desserts. Open Saturdays from 8 am to 3 pm.
Just need a snack? Pop in to the Martinsville Candy Kitchen for a sweet treat. It's a 100+ year local tradition. Choose from a wide variety of candy (including sugar free), two dozen ice cream flavors and an old fashioned soda fountain!
