Connecting with the Fair Community: January Convention Recap

“State fairs remind us that life is meant to be lived with enthusiasm and wonder.” — Unknown

The above is such a true quote, as the Head of Fair and Festival Division I took this view point and a little cold weather with me on my first venture into the State Association of County Fairs conventions these past 2 weeks. We’ve done tons of business in that market with Street Drum Corps, Jonathan Burns, Ivan Pecel, Rhythmetrix, Traveling Dinos Museum and The Big Bounce America.  It was time for me to hit the road and meet some of the County Fair buyers and introduce what Degy can offer on a more regional level. My enthusiasm and wonder were ready to go as I hit the road to Syracuse, NY and Hershey, PA.

Expanding Our Reach in the Fair Market

Up to this point, our exposure to the Fair market has been at the national level at the International Association of Fairs and Expos (IAFE). Where Fairs from all over the country convene to talk to vendors and talent that perform at State and County Fairs all over the US. The New York State Association of Agricultural Fairs (NYSAAF) and the Pennsylvania State Association of County Fairs (PSACF) are two state organizations that really focus on the connection and education of fair boards and committees. And that is where we started our latest convention journey.  

What I Learned from Two State Fair Conventions

After 2 conventions, I learned a lot about the structure and how Fair boards work. I learned more about the competitions and their winner roles and responsibilities in the Fair scene. Most importantly, for Degy we found some great Fair clients that are excited to be working with us into 2026 and 2027!

Talent That Truly Fits the Fair Experience

It’s great to know that the talent we have and represent is a great and exciting fit for the Fair Market. The ability for Comedy Magician Michael Kent to do a roving set or a small stage, or Tori Kubick to do short demos shooting arrows with her feet or Miss Savannah Belle’s Southern Stomp, teaching the crowd how to Cotton Eye Joe. These are the events that bring people together and create the memorable family and community moments.

Why County Fairs Still Matter

These are hardworking, community-minded people bringing local/regional, sometimes National, talent to their communities. At times “The Fair” is the only way that people in that region get to celebrate, compete for prize money and ribbons and show off their hard work and dedication in their fields and stables. It’s also a great time to eat some Fried Oreos, watch the demolition derby or visit the petting zoo. All of these things you can find from the vendors at these conventions. There were Dog shows, Train shows, Pirate bands and Winery’s, Rodeo and Demolition Derby, variety acts and clowns, Cartoonists/Caricaturists, Circus and Acrobats, “you’ll find it all at the Fair”. The Fair is that place that families can go for fun, safe entertainment and let loose and enjoy some music, fun, games and rides.  Make sure that you follow us on our Journey to conventions and conferences. Looking forward to working with some amazing people for years to come!!

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