Thanks in large part to the inter-island pick-up and drop-off option, the number of exhibitor entries increased from last year and the Fairgrounds welcomed approximately 8,012 people over four days (for a total of 16,468 visits!) to join in the fun.
||| FROM SAN JUAN COUNTY COMMUNICATIONS |||
Even with a few rainy days, islanders braved the weather to support the arts, agriculture, and talents of their family, friends, and neighbors at the beloved County Fair. This year, the Fairgrounds welcomed approximately 8,012people over four days (for a total of 16,468 visits!) to join in the fun. Each year, Parks & Fair staff build on the successes from Fairs past and learn from this year’s challenges –and this year was no different. Accessibility and inclusion are a continued focus reflected not only in improvements on the grounds, but with additions to programming.
Accessibility at the Fairgrounds
The Fairgrounds underwent an accessibility makeover in the off-season with a massive chip sealing project, sidewalks around the Main Exhibit Hall, and improved accessible parking options. These improvements made it easier for those with limited mobility to make their way throughout the grounds and enjoy more of what the Fair has to offer! In addition, efforts have been made to offer sensory-friendly options to those who feel overwhelmed by the traditional Fair experience.
“The addition of a ‘Sensory Friendly’ morning on Sunday was such a great way to reach community members desiring a paired down Fair,” said Events Coordinator Amanda Smith. She continued, “Look for growth in our outreach next year as we take input from the community on what they’d like to see!”
Did You See Us?
Several County departments and programs signed up as exhibitors at the Fair including Health & Community Services, the Land Bank, and Environmental Stewardship. And this year, the San Juan County Clerk’s Office joined in the fun! The Clerk’s Office offered fairgoers the opportunity to apply for passports right from their vendor booth!
“We did a total of about 10 passports over the 2 days (5 hours each day) we were there. We had huge interest with about 40 inquiries,” said Deputy Clerk Deirdre Boyle. “We gave out a lot of applications and price sheets and answered a ton of questions. We were so happy with the reception we got.”
The Fair Board Recognizes Vendors & Volunteers Who’s “Future is Bright!”
The San Juan County Fair Board has the privilege of awarding up to 10 awards each year for exceptional contributions to the annual San Juan County Fair. The awards are intended to recognize Fair participants who add to the energy, vitality, and unique identity of the Fair in a way that captures the attention and imagination of attendees. This year’s winners are Cattle Point Rock & Topsoil, Million Dollar Lemonade, Textile Arts Superintendent Krispi Staude, the Poultry Barn, Lignin Lee (the giant robot!), Zucchini 500 Superintendents Lynnette Cabrera and Bobby Warren, the many 4-H members and their families who staff the Ramblers Booth, San Juan Island EMS & Fire, and Events Coordinator Amanda Smith.
We Are So Thankful to Our Island Community
Thank you so much for your continued support of the San Juan County Fair! We simply couldn’t do it without YOU! Your presence, your hard work, your willingness to share the things that you’ve spent your time and energy on are what makes our little Fair the best around. See you next year!
Contact: Amanda Smith, Events Coordinator (Parks & Fair Dept.), fair@sanjuancountywa.gov, 360-378-4310
About San Juan County’s Department of Parks, Recreation, and Fair
San Juan County’s Department of Parks, Recreation, and Fair oversees public parks on all four ferry-served islands, manages camping, and hosts the San Juan County Fair. The department offices are located at 849 Argyle Avenue, Friday Harbor, WA 98250. For more information about San Juan County’s Department of Parks, Recreation, and Fair, visit https://www.sanjuancountywa.
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