The Cotton Pickin’ Fair, Georgia’s original AgriTourism Event, began in September 1972 on a 188 years old family farm as a single family’s community economic development project. A declining farm economy, a very poor cattle market, and the opening of I-185 from Lagrange to Columbus gave birth to an idea that would supplement farm income and keep the Town of Gay in the public eyes as an upscale antique center. Today, over two million visitors have enjoyed the work of the best artisans, antique specialists, and craftsmen from across the US and Canada every May and October. New and exciting exhibitors refresh the Fair as it continues to assist with nonprofit fundraising projects and in its 50 years enjoy record attendance. The Fair’s popularity has steadily increased every year since 1994. We also support local businesses and provide special marketing opportunities for Presidential pathways Tourism Association destinations. The cotton pickin’ Fair is a founding producer of distinction in the Georgia Tourism Foundation Georgia Made, Georgia Grown Creative Economies Initiative, and since 1988, most of our productions have been named to the prestigious Southeast Tourism Society Top 20 Events List. The 1911 LLC, a Georgia nonprofit corporation, supporting sustainable rural development, farm preservation, and AgriTourism, sponsors The Cotton Pickin’ Fair and its creative excellence Awards program.