The roar of souped‑up lawnmowers will fill the air at the Santa Rosa County Fairgrounds on Saturday, October 3, 2026, as the county hosts its first‑ever Bahia Grass Invitational Lawnmower Racing & Fat Boy Fish Fry Contest.
These family‑friendly events promise a full day of fun, food, and community spirit. Spectators can cheer on racers competing in high‑speed lawnmower heats from 9–11 a.m., then again from 2 p.m. until dark, while enjoying fried fish dinners, which will be available for purchase. Nasgrass rules apply.
Hosted by the Santa Rosa County Fair Association, the events highlight the group’s mission to promote agriculture education through special events. The Fair Association has also partnered with the Santa Rosa County Extension Service, which provides horticulture training and water‑quality education for local residents.
Beyond the racing thrills, the day will spotlight environmental awareness as experts share insights on best lawn care practices and how everyday yard maintenance affects surface water quality and fisheries.
Proceeds from the events will benefit Milton Rotary Club, Santa Rosa Kids House and the Santa Rosa County Fair Association.
“A lawnmower racing event near the end of grass growing season coupled with a fried mullet contest should bring our community together for clean family fun and provide a forum for sharing best practices in lawn care and surface water quality,” said Prudence Caskey, 4-H agent for Santa Rosa County and Fair Association board member. ” We can have great landscaping and improve water quality supporting of our mullet and oyster populations.”
The Fat Boy Fish Fry Contest, featuring invited local chefs, will be officiated by the Santa Rosa County Sea Grant agent and the Pensacola Perdido Bay Estuary Program. Fish plates will be sold from 11 a.m. – 2 p.m.
Adding an artistic touch, the 4‑H “Shape of Water” Art Show will run alongside the festivities, showcasing student artwork that explores the condition of local waterways and the life they sustain. A special exhibit will highlight the Bluenose Shiner, a small but vital indicator species for water health, as requested by FWC fisheries research staff. Students interested in participating in the art show can drop off their artwork by Monday, September 28 at the Santa Rosa County Extention Office, located at 6263 Dogwood Drive in Milton. Email Caskey for more info via PrudenceC@santarosa.fl.gov.
Event Details
WHO: Santa Rosa County Fair Association with Community Partners
WHAT: Inaugural Bahia Grass Invitational Lawnmower Races & Fat Boy Fish Fry
WHEN: 9 a.m. – 5 p.m., Saturday, October 3, 2026
WHERE: Santa Rosa County Fairgrounds, 8700 Randy Brown Road, East Milton (I‑10 Exit 31)
ADMISSION: $20 per vehicle
MORE INFO: 850‑861‑2715 or visit the event’s social media page: BAHIA GRASS INVITATIONAL LAWNMOWER RACING & FAT BOY FISH FRY
