Volunteers are the ‘lifeblood’ of the county fair

Scheduled to happen Oct. 1-4, and kicking off with horse show events the weekend before, the 2015 San Benito County Fair is just around the corner.  Organizers say it’s time for locals to think about how they might get involved with one of the county’s largest events.  

“Engagement in the fair takes on many roles from entering exhibits to sponsoring and volunteering,” said Donnette Carter, the fair’s CEO, in a press release. “Consider an opportunity, or two, and be part of this monumental community effort. Entering an exhibit in the fair provides the opportunity for individuals to share their talent, whether it’s raising livestock, growing produce, or creating personal masterpieces.”  

Quilts, adult crafts, baked goods, beer and wine, fine art, photography, plants, floral designs, woodworking, clothing, produce, jams and jellies, and ornamental art are just a handful of the entry options, in addition to livestock.  

The entry book is online at www.sanbenitocountyfair.com.  All entries are due in the fair office by 6 p.m. on Friday, Sept. 4 and will also be received online no later than midnight that day.

This year, all livestock, poultry, and rabbit entries and 4-H and FFA still exhibits must be submitted online. Those needing assistance are encouraged to call the fair office or visit the entry office which is open Monday through Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. (closed for lunch noon-1 p.m.). Young exhibitors can also contact their 4-H and FFA leaders.

Sponsorships from local businesses in the greater San Benito County area help to make the fair possible, with organizers reminding that sponsors will enjoy exposure and marketing opportunities. There are numerous levels of participation for both business sponsorship and individual award contributions, all with the common goal of supporting the traditions and values of San Benito County Fair.

“Volunteers are the lifeblood of the fair,” Carter noted, pointing out that the 33rd District Agricultural Association employs three full-time individuals and a couple of part-time maintenance/event assistants. “Without the effort of dedicated volunteers, the fair would not happen.”  

Department chairs, committee members, building monitors, office staff, auction clerks, livestock assistants, grounds workers, and many more volunteer roles contribute to the success of the fair each year.  Individuals and groups are invited to consider volunteer roles.

Contact the fair office (831-628-3421) to discuss the opportunities to partner in the presentation of this year’s fair.