Community Economic Development

UT Extension Union County partners with the Heritage Festival to conduct an annual Fall Hay Bale Decorating Contest to promote tourism to Union County during the Heritage Festival. The Hay Bale Decorating contest was inspired by a similar contest at the Tennessee Valley Fair. The UT Extension office and the Heritage Festival are also partners in youth and adult agriculture exhibits during the annual festival.

In partnership with the Union County Mayor’s Office, the UT Extension office hosts an Annual Holiday Decorating Contest. The goal is to enhance tourism and provide a sense of community within Union County. Businesses, Organizations, and Individuals are encouraged to decorate with holiday lights. We host a Facebook contest to determine the winners. After the Mayor’s annual Tree lighting ceremony, residents are encouraged to drive around and look at the festival displays.