A local resident, witnessing a steady line of vehicles entering and departing the fairgrounds, recently commented that it appears the Kansas State Fair is open for business.
The only response I could think of was that the Kansas State Fair is always open for business 365 days per year, and in recent years, increased activities on the fairgrounds is a constant.
Volunteering in Hutchinson
Last week, I had an opportunity to volunteer for the National Junior College Basketball tournament which has been an annual event since 1949 in the Salt City. Two hundred volunteers donate a week of their year to administer this yearly event, and not a single person seeks compensation or recognition.
The same could be said about the Kansas State Fair which is affirmation that Hutchinson is a giving and special place.
There is plenty happening at the Kansas State Fair. Next month, coinciding with the actual Kentucky Derby in Louisville, Kentucky on May 3, partygoers will gather in the 1861 Club on the fairgrounds for a fun afternoon and evening.
Hats and Horses
Dubbed the “Newest Luxury Fundraising Event,” attendees will feast on a Derby-inspired menu including Mint Juleps with the world’s most famous horse race simulcasted on 15 large television sets situated throughout the 1861 Club.
Sponsorships are available for tables of 6 to 10, along with individual tickets. Organizers state the event kicks off at 3 p.m. and will last as long as participants choose to stay or until 8 PM. For additional information, interested parties are urged to call 620-615-7388 or check out this informational article on the Foundation’s website.
Love and Support for the Kansas State Fair
In traveling across Kansas, I am often asked about the latest goings-on at the Kansas State Fair. Perhaps, these inquires reflect thousands of great memories by Kansans from their time spent at the fair. For some it may be a concert, midway ride, talking with KWCH personalities, or devouring a Pronto Pup.
Maintaining the nearly 300 acres of grounds and several dozen structures for the long-term requires a constant need of significant funds in future years.
Last year, an anonymous couple gave the first legacy gift to the Kansas State Fair. The contributor told of his first visit to the State Fair as a child and was, as he put it, “hooked” for life, resulting in a potentially large donation.
The Kansas Fairgrounds Foundation staff is prepared to assist other individuals or families who desire to give back to the fair and provide support for future generations of fairgoers.
All amounts are accepted and contributors are invited to designate which Kansas State Fair program or building where they wish those funds to be allocated. Also, in some situations, naming rights may be offered to contributors.
Spring on the Fairgrounds
A walk across the fairgrounds during April will provide visitors a sight of flowers blooming. And if the old English proverb, ‘April showers bring May flowers’ comes true, we have much to look forward to in the coming months.
-Richard Shank