Anderson's General Store has brought the Statesboro and surrounding community together for over a decade with Old Farm Day, a free and family-focused fall festival.
This past Saturday, October 26th, Anderson’s held its 14th Annual Old Farm Day, drawing families from around the region to experience a mix of rural charm, hands-on activities, and heartwarming traditions.
The grounds of Anderson's were bustling with visitors from 10am to 1pm, with families filling the grassy lot by mid-morning. From first-time visitors to seasoned attendees, everyone gathered to enjoy a day dedicated to the simple joys of farm life.
Old Farm Day offered unique “farm experiences” tailored to children of all ages. Kids enjoyed rides on the saddle barrel, climbed on hay bales, and took turns on the ever-popular electric bull ride. These farm-themed attractions created an immersive experience, allowing children to get a taste of traditional farm life in a fun and engaging way.
Cindy Mitchell watched as her young grandson Bane enjoyed a barrel ride, while Bane giggled and offered a wave at the camera. She said they look forward to the event each year and that it's great to see so many families out enjoying the afternoon together. "Events like this are what community is all about."
Another young boy, aptly named Anderson, had an opportunity to practice his roping skills during Anderson’s Old Farm Day. He and the man "showing him the ropes" both sported their boots to the themed event.
Many young festival-goers made a beeline for the antique tractors on display, including the Ainsworth family, who came out just for the tractors. With colorful displays of vintage farm equipment dotting the landscape, the tractors quickly became a magnet for kids and adults alike.
Annelise and Kayleigh Jackson, long-time fans of Anderson's events, were thrilled to join the festivities again. They love attending Chick Day and spending time with the animals, and so the Jackson sisters enjoyed meeting the horses from Flamekissed Farm, a local establishment recognized for its nationally acclaimed horses and equestrian riders.
There were plenty of additional attractions for visitors of all ages, including booths from local artisans and well-loved vendors like The Averitt Center, The Artsy Girl, and Say Squeeze Lemonade, adding a taste of local flavor to the event.
Georgia Southern University’s Puppy Club and animal rescue organization Fixing the Boro also attended, offering information about their community work and providing an extra dose of puppy love for visitors.
A focal point of Old Farm Day each year is Anderson’s commitment to giving back. “Over the years, we’ve raised funds for local causes, including Fostering Bulloch,” Vicki Anderson explained. This year, Old Farm Day proceeds were dedicated to the Live Like Aiden Memorial Foundation Inc., a nonprofit honoring Aiden Conner Cornwell, who tragically lost his life in a hunting accident in 2020.
Aiden’s family, including his parents, Dennis and Jennifer, and siblings, have turned their grief into action, founding the foundation to award college scholarships and provide youth hunting and gun safety education.
Aiden’s mother, Jennifer Key, shared her motivation to keep his memory alive: “We just want to bring awareness to something so important in our community here in the South. It’s been amazing to see how many people from around the country have reached out to support us and honor Aiden’s memory.”
With laughter, family moments, and cherished memories, Old Farm Day brought the community together once more, ending the day afternoon as an all-around success.
