by Mallory Taylor
Business Development Manager, FSEDI

COURTLAND
The Virginia Tourism Corporation will bring an oversized ‘LOVE’ artwork to the Franklin Southampton County Fair on Wednesday, Aug. 10, as part of a state and local partnership to promote tourism. The artwork, which is 16 feet long and more than six feet high, is part of the Virginia is for Lovers campaign and designed to promote family-friendly vacation experiences in Virginia.

Visitors can come see the LOVE when it arrives, it will be on display near the main entrance to the fairgrounds, 25374 New Market Road, Courtland, through Saturday, Aug. 13.

Visitors are encouraged to take a picture in front of the artwork and share it on Facebook at www.Facebook.com/VirginiaisforLovers or on Instagram and Twitter, using the special hashtag #LOVEVA.

Come enjoy great local and specialty foods, home arts, exhibits, livestock shows, petting zoos, talent shows and more. Sign up for the watermelon eating contests, sit back and enjoy a magic show and be sure not to miss out on the great concerts.

On Thursday, August 11th, William Michael Morgan will be performing his hit “I Met A Girl” along with his other boot stomping tunes and on Saturday, Aug. 13, Granger Smith is going to became the soundtrack for your country road driving with “Backroad Song” and many more.

There is also a chance to learn and view local horticulture including the area’s largest sunflowers, watermelons and pumpkins! Check out the midway for all you can ride wrist band nights where you can hop on the ferris wheel, scrambler and many more exciting rides.

“Our iconic Virginia is for Lovers brand is about love – pure and simple, and has been for more than 45 years,” said Rita McClenny, president and CEO of the Virginia Tourism Corporation. “We are excited to share the LOVE at locations throughout the Commonwealth where so many people can enjoy being a part of it. It reminds us that Virginia is an ideal destination for families looking to completely connect on a Virginia vacation.”

Amanda Jarratt, President & CEO of Franklin Southampton Economic Development, Inc. stated, “We are pleased to be able to once again partner with the VTC and the Franklin-Southampton County Fair to bring the LOVE letters to our community.

This not only allows the Virginia brand to be shared locally but allows our local brand Escape to Tradition to be highlighted at this exciting event that draws visitors to the region.”

To view the LOVE images taken at the Franklin Southampton County Fair visit https://www.facebook.com/VisitFranklinSouthamptonVA/. We will see you at the fair.