Maximize your points at the Stardew Valley Fair with the perfect Grange Display
Select Your Items
Your Grange Display
0/9 ItemsAdd items from the list to build your display
Pro Tips:
- Aim for 9 high-quality items from different categories
- Iridium quality items earn the most points
- Diversity bonus: +5 points for each unique category (max +30)
- You need at least 90 points to win first place
Results & Analysis
Select 9 items and click “Calculate Score” to see your results
Grange Display Visualization
Grange Display Strategy Guide
Quality Matters
Iridium quality items are worth significantly more than regular quality.
Regular: Base Points
Silver: ×1.25
Gold: ×1.5
Iridium: ×2
Diversity Bonus
+5 points for each unique category, up to +30 points for 6+ categories.
6 categories: +30 points
9 categories: +30 points
Winning Strategy
Aim for at least 90 points to secure first place and the Star Token reward.
1st Place: 90+ points
1,000 Star Tokens
High-Value Items
Iridium quality fish, artisan goods, and animal products yield the most points.
Ancient Fruit Wine: 14 pts
Iridium Largemouth Bass: 10 pts
Iridium Milk: 8 pts
About the Grange Display
What is the Grange Display?
The Grange Display is a competition at the Stardew Valley Fair where players showcase up to 9 items to earn points and win Star Tokens.
Scoring System:
- Base Points: Each item has a base point value
- Quality Multiplier: Higher quality items earn more points
- Diversity Bonus: +5 points per unique category (max 6 categories)
- Total Score: Sum of all item points plus diversity bonus
Reward Tiers
Your placement determines how many Star Tokens you earn:
Note: First place earns 1,000 Star Tokens, which can be used to purchase rare items at the Fair.
Stardew Valley Grange Display Calculator: Mastering the Fall Festival Competition
In the charming world of Stardew Valley, seasonal festivals provide delightful breaks from farm life while offering valuable rewards and community interaction. The Fall Festival’s Grange Display competition stands as one of the most engaging and strategically complex events in the game. This comprehensive guide explores the intricate scoring system, optimal item selection strategies, and how specialized calculators can help farmers maximize their chances of victory against the formidable Mayor Lewis.
The Stardew Valley Grange Display Calculator represents a sophisticated tool that transforms the seemingly simple display competition into a data-driven optimization challenge. By understanding the underlying scoring mechanics and category bonuses, players can consistently achieve perfect scores and claim the coveted first-place prize, regardless of their farm’s progression stage or available resources.
As one of the few competitive events in Stardew Valley, the Grange Display offers both immediate rewards and long-term benefits. Mastering this competition not only provides valuable Star Tokens for premium festival shop items but also contributes to completionist goals and offers satisfying bragging rights within the Stardew Valley community.
Understanding the Fall Festival and Grange Display
The Fall Festival occurs on the 16th of Fall each year and serves as Stardew Valley’s equivalent of a harvest celebration. While the event features multiple activities including a fishing minigame and a maze, the Grange Display competition remains the centerpiece for strategic players seeking to maximize their rewards.
Historical Context and Game Significance
The Grange Display competition pays homage to real-world agricultural fairs where farmers showcase their finest produce and crafts. In Stardew Valley, this tradition translates into a nine-slot display where players can arrange items from various categories to impress the judges, particularly Mayor Lewis who serves as the primary competitor.
Competition Mechanics and Rules
The Grange Display follows specific rules that govern item selection and scoring:
- Players can display up to 9 items in the provided stands
- Each item contributes points based on quality and category
- Category diversity provides significant bonus points
- Mayor Lewis’s display serves as the benchmark for victory
- Winning provides Star Tokens based on score differential
Game Design Insight
According to community analysis and data mining, the Grange Display scoring system was designed to reward both specialization (high-quality items) and diversification (multiple categories). This creates an engaging optimization problem that changes as players progress through different stages of the game.
Key Features of Grange Display Calculators
Specialized Grange Display Calculators incorporate comprehensive databases and scoring algorithms to provide optimal display recommendations. Understanding these capabilities helps players leverage these tools effectively.
Comprehensive Item Database
Calculators include complete information on all eligible items:
- Base point values for all displayable items
- Quality modifiers (regular to iridium)
- Category classifications and bonuses
- Seasonal availability and acquisition methods
- Artisan good variations and values
Optimization Algorithms
Advanced calculation methods for maximum scores:
- Category diversification analysis
- Quality vs. variety trade-off evaluation
- Progression-based recommendations
- Inventory-specific optimizations
- Minimum requirement calculations
Scenario Modeling
Comparison of different strategic approaches:
- Early-game vs. late-game strategies
- Specialized farm type considerations
- Time and resource investment analysis
- Alternative display combinations
- Risk assessment for randomization elements
Progression Planning
Guidance for different stages of game development:
- Year 1 beginner strategies
- Established farm optimizations
- Perfectionist and completionist approaches
- Multi-year improvement planning
- Community Center route considerations
Advanced Analytical Capabilities
Beyond basic scoring, calculators offer sophisticated analysis:
- Probability modeling for items with random quality outcomes
- Opportunity cost analysis for items with alternative uses
- Multi-festival planning that considers year-to-year improvements
- Platform-specific adjustments for different game versions
Grange Display Data Visualization
Visual representations of scoring data help players quickly understand category values, quality impacts, and optimization strategies. The following interactive diagrams illustrate key concepts relevant to Grange Display planning.
Category Point Distribution
Quality Modifier Impact
Optimal Display Composition
Progression Scoring Potential
Comprehensive Scoring System Analysis
The Grange Display scoring system combines base item values, quality modifiers, and category bonuses in a sophisticated points calculation. Understanding these mechanics is essential for maximizing display performance.
Base Point Calculation
Each displayed item contributes points based on its inherent value and quality:
Item Points = Base Value × Quality Multiplier
Where:
- Base Value = The item’s standard display point value
- Quality Multiplier =
- Regular: 1×
- Silver: 1.1×
- Gold: 1.2×
- Iridium: 1.5×
This foundation establishes the raw point contribution of each displayed item before category bonuses are applied.
Category Bonus System
The category system provides significant bonuses for display diversity:
Category Bonus = 5 points per unique category (up to 6 categories)
Maximum category bonus: 30 points (6 categories × 5 points)
This system creates a strategic balance between using high-point items and maintaining category diversity for bonus points.
Total Score Calculation
The complete scoring formula combines all elements:
Total Score = Σ(Item Points) + Category Bonus
Where:
- Σ(Item Points) = Sum of all displayed item points
- Category Bonus = 5 points per unique category (max 30)
This formula demonstrates why both item quality and category diversity are essential for maximizing scores.
Comprehensive Item Category Analysis
Understanding the eight display categories and their highest-value items forms the foundation of effective Grange Display strategy. Each category offers unique opportunities and challenges for point maximization.
Category Overview and Scoring Potential
The eight recognized categories each contribute differently to overall scoring:
| Category | Top Items | Max Points (Iridium) | Strategic Value |
|---|---|---|---|
| Animal Products | Large Milk, Duck Egg, Wool | 15-25 points | High (consistent quality) |
| Artisan Goods | Ancient Fruit Wine, Truffle Oil | 20-40 points | Very High (top scores) |
| Fish | Legend, Glacierfish | 20-30 points | Medium (quality varies) |
| Foraging | Purple Mushroom, Coconut | 15-25 points | Medium (seasonal) |
| Fruits | Ancient Fruit, Sweet Gem Berry | 15-35 points | High (quality control) |
| Mining | Diamond, Prismatic Shard | 25-35 points | High (consistent value) |
| Vegetables | Pumpkin, Red Cabbage | 15-25 points | Medium (seasonal) |
| Cooked Items | Complete Breakfast, Pumpkin Pie | 10-20 points | Low (effort vs. reward) |
Category Interaction Strategies
Effective displays leverage category synergies and avoid common pitfalls:
Optimal Category Distribution
The ideal display uses exactly 6 different categories to maximize the category bonus while reserving 3 slots for the highest-point items regardless of category. This approach balances the 30-point category bonus with maximum individual item points.
Progression-Based Category Focus
Different categories become viable at various stages of game progression:
- Early Game (Year 1) – Focus on Foraging, Fishing, and basic Animal Products
- Mid Game (Year 2) – Add Artisan Goods, Mining items, and quality Fruits/Vegetables
- Late Game (Year 3+) – Optimize with Iridium Ancient Fruit Wine, Prismatic Shard, and Legend Fish
Strategic Applications for Different Play Styles
The Grange Display Calculator supports diverse approaches based on player goals, available resources, and game progression. Understanding these applications helps players leverage the tool effectively for their specific situation.
First-Year Festival Strategy
For players attending their first Fall Festival, realistic expectations and practical strategies yield the best results:
| Strategy Focus | Recommended Items | Expected Score | Victory Probability |
|---|---|---|---|
| Foraging Focus | Purple Mushroom, Coconut, Cactus Fruit | 75-90 points | Low (requires luck) |
| Fishing Emphasis | Gold-quality fish, Crab Pot items | 80-100 points | Medium |
| Mixed Approach | Foraging + Fishing + Animal Products | 90-110 points | High |
Established Farm Optimization
For players with developed farms and infrastructure, the calculator enables precise optimization:
Perfect Score Composition
A display achieving 125+ points (guaranteed victory) typically includes: Iridium Ancient Fruit Wine (40 points), Prismatic Shard (35 points), Iridium Large Milk (25 points), Gold Pumpkin (24 points), plus diverse category fillers. The calculator helps identify which combination of high-value items and category fillers achieves this threshold most efficiently.
Specialized Farm Considerations
Different farm types offer unique advantages for Grange Display preparation:
- Standard Farm – Balanced approach with diverse crop and animal options
- Riverland Farm – Fishing emphasis with easier access to high-value fish
- Forest Farm – Foraging advantages with guaranteed seasonal items
- Hill-top Farm – Mining benefits with easier gem acquisition
- Wilderness Farm – Combat-related items and monster drops
Prize Optimization and Star Token Strategy
Beyond simply winning the competition, strategic players optimize their scores to maximize Star Token rewards and make informed decisions about festival shop purchases.
Star Token Reward System
The number of Star Tokens awarded depends on the margin of victory:
Star Tokens = 100 + (Player Score – Lewis’s Score) × 5
Where:
- Lewis’s Score = Typically 90 points (can vary slightly)
- Minimum Tokens = 100 (for barely winning)
- Maximum Practical Tokens = ~275 (for perfect scores)
This system creates diminishing returns for score improvement beyond the victory threshold, influencing optimization strategies.
Festival Shop Value Analysis
The calculator helps prioritize festival shop purchases based on availability and value:
| Item | Cost (Tokens) | Exclusive | Priority |
|---|---|---|---|
| Rarecrow #1 | 800 | Yes | High (collection) |
| Stardrop | 2000 | Yes | Very High (max energy) |
| Furniture/Decor | 500-2000 | Seasonal | Low (cosmetic) |
| Limited Stock Items | 100-500 | No | Medium (convenience) |
Multi-Year Token Accumulation
For completionist goals, the calculator supports long-term planning:
- Year 1 Target – 100-150 tokens (basic victory)
- Year 2 Target – 200-250 tokens (optimized display)
- Year 3+ Target – 250+ tokens (perfect score approach)
- Total Requirement – Approximately 5,000 tokens for all exclusive items
Strategic Insight
The Stardrop purchase (2,000 tokens) represents the highest-priority festival shop item due to its permanent energy increase. Calculators can project how many years of festival participation are needed to afford this based on current farm development and display optimization potential.
Advanced Strategies and Optimization Techniques
Beyond basic scoring principles, advanced players employ sophisticated techniques to maximize efficiency and achieve perfect scores with minimal resource investment.
Quality Optimization Methods
Several game mechanics can be leveraged to improve item quality for display:
Fertilizer Strategy
Using Deluxe Speed-Gro on pumpkins planted on Fall 1 ensures gold-quality pumpkins by Fall 16. Quality Fertilizer can achieve similar results with proper timing. The calculator can determine whether the point improvement justifies the fertilizer cost.
Fishing Proficiency
Higher fishing skill levels increase the chance of catching gold and iridium quality fish. The calculator can incorporate probability models to estimate expected fish quality based on skill level and fishing location.
Preservation and Timing Strategies
Advanced planning throughout the year maximizes display options:
- Preserve Jars vs. Kegs – Calculation of which processing method yields better display items
- Crop Rotation Planning – Scheduling crops to ensure availability of high-value Fall items
- Animal Product Scheduling – Timing animal purchases and care for optimal product quality
- Mining Expedition Planning – Strategic mine visits to acquire high-value minerals
Risk Management and Contingency Planning
The calculator helps mitigate randomness and unexpected events:
| Risk Factor | Probability | Mitigation Strategy | Calculator Function |
|---|---|---|---|
| Poor Fishing Quality | Medium | Multiple fishing attempts | Probability-based recommendations |
| Crop Failure (Crows) | Low | Scarecrow placement | Backup item suggestions |
| Animal Mood Issues | Medium | Extra animal care | Alternative animal product options |
| Mining Luck | High | Multiple mining trips | Gem probability calculations |
Community Insights and Meta-Strategy Evolution
The Stardew Valley community has developed sophisticated Grange Display strategies through collective experimentation and data sharing. Understanding this evolving meta-strategy provides valuable context for calculator development and usage.
Historical Strategy Development
Grange Display strategies have evolved significantly since the game’s release:
- Early Community (2016-2017) – Basic category discovery and quality importance
- Intermediate Period (2017-2019) – Mathematical optimization and scoring formula verification
- Modern Era (2019-Present) – Sophisticated calculators and progression-based strategies
Platform-Specific Considerations
Different game versions and platforms may affect display strategy:
- PC/Mac – Most stable with consistent mechanics
- Console Versions – Potential minor scoring variations
- Mobile – Touch interface considerations for display arrangement
- Multiplayer – Coordination strategies for shared farms
Future Developments and Updates
As Stardew Valley continues to receive updates, Grange Display strategies may evolve:
- Potential new items and categories in future content updates
- Balance changes that could affect scoring calculations
- New farm types with unique display advantages
- Additional festivals or competition variations
Conclusion
The Stardew Valley Grange Display Calculator represents the culmination of community knowledge and mathematical optimization applied to one of the game’s most engaging seasonal events. By transforming the seemingly simple display competition into a sophisticated optimization challenge, these tools enhance both competitive play and casual enjoyment of the Fall Festival.
The calculator’s value extends beyond mere victory assurance to encompass strategic planning, resource optimization, and long-term goal achievement. When used effectively, it supports gameplay decisions that align with both immediate festival success and broader farm development objectives. This dual benefit addresses both the competitive aspect of the display competition and the strategic planning required for comprehensive Stardew Valley progression.
As Stardew Valley continues to captivate players worldwide, tools like the Grange Display Calculator will remain essential resources for both new farmers learning the game’s intricacies and experienced players pursuing perfectionist goals. The principles underlying this tool—systematic analysis, strategic planning, and community knowledge sharing—represent the evolution of Stardew Valley from a simple farming simulation to a rich, complex game with depth that rewards careful study and optimization.
Whether pursuing a first-year victory against Mayor Lewis or optimizing for a multi-year Stardrop acquisition strategy, the Grange Display Calculator serves as an invaluable companion on the journey through Pelican Town’s seasonal celebrations. By embracing this tool and the strategic mindset it represents, players can transform the Fall Festival from a simple minigame into a satisfying optimization challenge that rewards both preparation and execution.
Frequently Asked Questions
Mayor Lewis typically scores 90 points with his display, so you need at least 91 points to win. However, the exact threshold can vary slightly (usually between 89-91 points). For guaranteed victory regardless of random variation, aim for at least 95 points. The Grange Display Calculator accounts for this variability and provides recommendations that ensure victory with a comfortable margin. First-year players should target at least 85-90 points as a realistic goal, while established farms can consistently achieve 100+ points with proper planning.
Yes, you can reuse the same items year after year! The items are returned to you after the festival concludes, so many players create a “Grange Display Chest” where they store their optimal display items between festivals. This is particularly valuable for hard-to-acquire items like Prismatic Shards, Legend Fish, or Iridium-quality Ancient Fruit Wine. The calculator can help you identify which high-value items are worth preserving for annual reuse versus which can be consumed or sold during the year. Many experienced players maintain a dedicated set of 9 perfect display items that they use every year, only updating them when they acquire even better replacements.
Advanced Grange Display Calculators incorporate probability models for items with random quality outcomes. For fishing, the calculator considers your fishing skill level, fishing rod type, and use of tackle/bait to estimate the probability distribution of different quality levels. For animal products, it factors in animal friendship levels and mood. For crops affected by fertilizer, it accounts for the increased probability of higher quality. The calculator typically provides both “expected value” recommendations (based on average outcomes) and “conservative” recommendations (based on more likely minimum quality levels). This helps players make informed decisions about whether to rely on potentially high-value but uncertain items versus more consistent alternatives.
Yes, several items have scoring values that don’t perfectly align with their market value or acquisition difficulty. Cooked dishes are generally undervalued—despite requiring multiple ingredients and cooking time, most provide only modest points. Conversely, certain artisan goods like Ancient Fruit Wine are extremely high-value relative to the effort required (once established). Iridium-quality forage items like Purple Mushrooms provide excellent value for relatively low effort. The calculator identifies these value discrepancies and prioritizes items that offer the best point-to-effort ratio. It’s particularly useful for avoiding the “trap” of using seemingly valuable cooked items that actually contribute little to your score compared to high-quality raw ingredients.
Optimal preparation timing depends on your farm’s development stage. For first-year players, serious preparation should begin in early Fall by focusing on high-value Fall crops (especially pumpkins), foraging, and fishing. For established farms, year-round preparation is beneficial: preserving high-quality Spring and Summer crops in preserve jars or kegs, maintaining happy animals for quality products, and scheduling mining trips for gems. The calculator can generate a preparation timeline based on your current farm status and target score. Generally, if you want to achieve a perfect score (125+ points), you should begin planning by Summer at the latest to ensure you have time to process artisan goods and acquire rare items.
No, the arrangement and order of items in the display has no effect on the score. The scoring is based entirely on the items themselves (their base value and quality) and the diversity of categories represented. You can arrange your items in any pattern you find aesthetically pleasing without impacting your score. This means you can organize by color, size, category, or personal preference. Some players enjoy creating visually appealing displays despite the lack of scoring impact, while others simply use the most efficient arrangement for quick setup. The calculator focuses exclusively on item selection rather than placement, since placement is purely cosmetic.
The most common mistakes include: using too many items from the same category (missing out on category bonuses), prioritizing cooked dishes over high-quality raw ingredients, underestimating the value of artisan goods, forgetting to check item quality before display, and not planning ahead for high-value Fall-specific crops. Many players also make the error of assuming expensive purchased items will score well, when in fact their point values are often modest. The calculator specifically addresses these pitfalls by emphasizing category diversity, identifying undervalued items, and providing quality-aware recommendations. Another frequent mistake is bringing exactly 9 items without backups, which leaves no flexibility if you accidentally misplace an item or discover a quality issue at the festival.