Halifax Harvest Days

Mission and History of Halifax Harvest Days

The first Halifax Harvest Day was held October 10, 1992. Its purpose and mission of the event was to promote the heritage, Southern hospitality and agrarian culture in Halifax County, and to entice the millions of route 95 travelers to visit the county to learn more about the County's past and present agricultural heritage, in addition to spending some of their dollars. Years later, the tradition continues and Halifax Harvest Days gets bigger and better each year. Festival goers continue to enjoy the heritage farm equipment such as antique tractors; farm exhibits and demonstrations such as the sawmill, peanut threshing and corn shucking; and lots of music and entertainment throughout the day on the outdoor amphitheater. Visit the Educational Exhibits area at the Rosenwald School, which highlights the services available to all Halifax County citizens. Walk through the early 1900's Farm House to reminisce how our ancestors lived and be sure to go right next door to the Ag Museum to view the cotton display, farm tools and equipment, and glimpse pictures of honored military.

In September, 2001, the military joined forces with Halifax Harvest Days to promote community relations and celebrate the spirit of patriotism while highlighting the Armed Forces. No one, however, ever imagined that planning a recognition of our military at a small local festival would be so relevant to the events of September 11, 2001, two weeks prior to Halifax Harvest Days. The events of September 11 have caused most U.S. Citizens to express their patriotism and love of country in many ways and Halifax Harvest Days was not exception. The Armed Forces are very well represented each year starting with Revolutionary war all the way up through to the current branches. Event participants will have the opportunity to walk through encampments of Revolutionary War, Civil War, WWI, and WWII. Parachute jumpers and military bands are always a highlight of the day as children and adults alike marvel at the expertise of each event as well as the static displays brought to the festival by all branches of our military.

Halifax Harvest Days has become “truly a County event” with many departments within County government participating in the planning and hosting throughout the festival. The Roanoke River Antique Engine and Tractor Club, “First in Freedom” the local chapter of The Retired Officers Association (TROA) and Halifax County Tourism partner with the Halifax County Cooperative Extension and Halifax County Government to bring a day of fun and excitement for the whole family. More events and vendors are being added to the festival on a yearly basis, so wear your walking shoes, and plan to spend a fun-filled weekend at Halifax Harvest Days. Admission to and parking for the festival is free, however, various events will have a cover charge. Directions: Take exit 168 off I95, take Hwy. 903S 2.6 miles towards Halifax to the 4-H Rural Life Center.

For more information:

Harvest Days 2005

Harvest Days 2006

Harvest Days 2007

Harvest Days 2008

4-H Rural Life