The Potato Picking Contest was the event that started the whole festival in 1938. Today, the Potato Picking Contest has both the highest stakes ($250 for first prize) and continues to attract people from miles around. The contest, as tradition has it, will start at 10:00 AM on Saturday at the sound of a whistle whether rain or shine. For the older generation who remember picking potatoes by hand, it's fun to marvel at the speed and skill of the pickers. For the younger generation, it's a chance to see what back-breaking work is all about!

The field is located to the southwest of the Layton Potato Wash Plant and can be accessed from Highway 9 south, watch for the signs.

CONTEST RULES
The rules for today's Potato Picking Contest continue to be the same rules as those that were used in 1938 when Barnesville was the site of the National Potato Picking Contest. For complete rules, continue here.

PRIZES
All contestants, young and old, guy or gal, will compete for a total of $510 in prizes!

HOW TO ENTER
There is no entry fee to enter the contest. Pickers may choose to bring their own baskets or baskets will be available at the event. Registration will be limited to the first 12 entrants.

FOR MORE INFORMATION
Contact Potato Picking Chairman Brian Halverson at (218) 789-7248 or the Spudline at (800) 525-4901.