For more than a decade, Anderson's General Store has been at the heart of community gatherings in Bulloch County, and this year is no exception. On Saturday, October 26th, from 10am to 1pm, Anderson’s General Store will host its 14th Annual Old Farm Day, a free fall festival that has become a beloved tradition for local families.
Mike and Vicki Anderson, owners of Anderson's General Store, began this festival in 2010 as a way to show appreciation for their customers.
"At the time, there were no major free events in town. A fall festival just seemed to fit with our store and the people we serve," Vicki Anderson shared. Over the years, Old Farm Day has grown beyond customer appreciation, evolving into a community-wide event that attracts hundreds of people each year.
A day of fun for the whole family
What sets Old Farm Day apart from other local events is its family-friendly focus, especially on kids.
"It’s unique because it's geared toward children, with plenty of games and rides for toddlers to teenagers," Mike Anderson explained. "Parents can relax, knowing their kids are in a safe environment, and everyone gets to enjoy the day."
This year promises to be even more exciting, with families encouraged to come dressed in Halloween costumes to trick-or-treat with local vendors. The day will also feature a variety of activities, including bouncy houses, horseback rides, a mechanical bull, and a petting zoo. Local favorites such as Watson’s Honey, Burn Worthy Candles, and Homegrown Trading Post will be part of the lineup, alongside food trucks offering tasty treats.
Giving back to the community
In addition to providing a day of fun, Old Farm Day has become a platform for giving back.
“Over the last few years, we’ve raised money for local causes like Fostering Bulloch and individuals in need,” Vicki Anderson said. This year, the event will support the Live Like Aiden Memorial Foundation Inc., an organization that raises awareness about gun safety and provides scholarships to local students.
The Andersons are proud to see Old Farm Day become a staple of the community, with families marking it on their calendars every year. “When October comes, people start asking when Old Farm Day will be. It's something many look forward to and a way for us to keep traditions alive while creating new ones,” Vicki shared.
Evolving tradition
From humble beginnings, the event has expanded significantly.
“We started with about 200 attendees, a hay maze, and old-time games for kids. Last year, we hosted over 800 attendees,” Mike noted. The event has continued to grow each year, adding new activities and attractions to keep things fresh.
As the festival approaches its 14th year, the Andersons are excited to see how it has brought the community together. “It’s a way to give back locally to our customers and community. Seeing the smiling faces come through our doors each year is what makes it all worth it,” Vicki said.
With something for everyone, this year’s Old Farm Day is sure to be an unforgettable experience. Don’t miss out on this chance to enjoy a day full of fall fun and community spirit at Anderson’s General Store on October 26th!
Anderson's General Store is located at 23736 US-80, Statesboro, GA 30461.