Photo by Jake McNeil Attendees of the 2022 Ag Bowl festivities gather around to watch the children’s tractor pull competition Saturday afternoon.

MARSHALL — The Southwest Minnesota State University campus parking lots were looking a little more festive than usual Saturday afternoon. Food trucks, farm animals and inflatables covered the pavement as part of the Ag Bowl festivities preceding SMSU’s first home football game of the season.  

While the football game didn’t start until 5 p.m., fans of the Mustangs were parking their cars and setting up tailgates as early as 1 p.m. By the time game-time rolled around, there was hardly a parking spot to be found between all the cars with their trunks open and coolers out. 

While the adults enjoyed their tailgates, the Ag Bowl had plenty of activities planned for the children as well. Children had their pick of a petting zoo, bouncy houses, and an arts-and-crafts station to spend their time before kickoff.  

Five-year-old Kroy was among the winners of a kids’ tractor pulling competition. Tractors and races seemed to be a trend for Kroy, as he said his other favorite part of the event was a green inflatable John Deere tractor that kids would race through. 

For others, the food was the highlight of the day. They provided a wide variety, from barbecue and ice cream to healthier options like roasted vegetables.  

Karen Gruhot, at the event with her husband Brad and their daughter Alayna, said the food was her favorite part of the day, particularly the Lingen Dairy ice cream. Brad and Alayna also enjoyed the food, but said that the game itself was their favorite part of the day.