Agriculture, food and fun will combine at the 73rd annual Manheim Farm Show. The show will run from Monday, Oct. 5, through Friday, Oct. 9, at the fairgrounds, 502 Adele Ave., Manheim.

"Each day will be full of agricultural exhibits, family events, free crafting activities and tons of delicious food," said Judy Zurin, committee member. "We hope to provide inexpensive activities that foster community and that are family friendly."

One of the most popular features of the farm show is the Make and Take area, where each day offers hands-on opportunities for creativity.

"This area started several years ago in a small tent," Zurin said. "It has since outgrown the tent and is now located in Building 1. All activities are free, although donations are accepted, and all supplies are provided."

Registration for some of the projects is required in Building 1, and all projects this year will focus on a red, white and blue theme to celebrate the country's 250th anniversary.

Monday's adult project will be creating Patriotic Whirley Gigs with Larry Hess, while kids can decorate a patriotic container.

On Tuesday, kids can make a red, white and blue jump rope, or people of all ages can paint a patriotic rock.

"On Tuesday evening, Paul Dorr from Baltimore will be returning for the fourth year," Zurin said. "We will be making painted window screens. This unique craft was first used in rowhomes in Baltimore in the early 1900s. The artist paints a scene onto a metal screen, making sure to remove excess paint from the screen's holes. The painted picture prevents the eye from focusing past the image into the house; however, when viewed from the reverse side, you can see it clearly." The project is appropriate for teens and adults, Zurin said.

On Wednesday, the Bluebird Society will help families make bluebird boxes to take home, assisted by volunteers from the Pleasant View Communities wood shop.

Thursday's projects are sponsored by the Lebanon County Master Gardeners and include making a wooden planter - in boxes cut by Gerry Kready of Manheim - filled with a native plant.

"On Thursday evening, the Lancaster County Woodcarvers will be returning to instruct a carving project," Zurin shared. "All wood, equipment and instructions will be provided, along with qualified instructors. Enjoy a relaxing evening of whittling your own project."

On Friday, the Penn State Lebanon County Gardeners will help families make a "nature hotel," Zurin said, explaining that the project is designed to create natural shelter for small animals and insects.

"These structures can be made from natural materials like wood, bamboo and leaves, and are beneficial for pollinators and other wildlife in gardens and natural spaces," she said.

Throughout the week, people can try a variety of vintage wooden games, courtesy of Larry Hess.

"In the past, we have had a giant Connect Four, a large checker game, life-size Jenga blocks, scroll saw demonstrations and large marble chasers for all to enjoy," Zurin said. "Parents can sit and watch the kids play, pick up a brush and paint or enjoy whittling."

All week long, people can watch daily live woodcarving by Dennis Beach, as well as sawmill and blacksmith demonstrations along Farm Show Lane. In the Champions Area, daily livestock shows will be held, showcasing sheep, pigs, beef, goats and more.

A children's barnyard will be set up all week, and other children's activities include touch-a-truck and a pedal tractor pull.

A parade will be held on Wednesday, beginning at 7 p.m.

"If you are a competitive type of person, check out page 12 of the premium book or on our website for this year's special America 250th classes, such as the pie contest, floral arrangement, Lego, wood and metal American flag and the Bucket of Junk challenge," Zurin said.

She also encouraged people to enjoy a variety of food, with stands run by local nonprofits, adding, "All the money spent this week on food goes right back to our Manheim community."

On Friday evening, families, community members and businesses may bid on livestock at a sale that showcases youth 4-H and FFA projects. Zurin noted that a popular choice among bidders is to buy an animal and then donate it to the Manheim Central Food Pantry.

She encourages everyone to come out for the farm show, emphasizing that it always draws a large crowd.

"The enthusiasm for this community event is almost contagious," she said.

For more information, including a full schedule of events, visit http://www.manheimfarmshow.org.