This past week was our fair week! All the emails, spreadsheets, meetings and preparation have led up to this event. It was busier than ever with phones ringing every few minutes, people coming in for tickets, memberships, parking passes and directions. 

Seeing all our hard work come together to create a fun, amazing experience was so rewarding to see. Monday I was able to attend the opening ceremony which kicked off the fair. There were several speakers and people who were celebrated for their role in the Fair world. Before this internship I did not really know much about the fair world or fairs in general, being immersed in this environment has really opened my eyes to so many new things. The opening ceremony highlighted both sponsors and long time members of the fair board who have tirelessly worked to put on the fair each year. At the very end of the ceremony three new k-9 dogs got sworn in. That was by far my favorite part!

Tuesday and Wednesday I spent mostly in the office where I worked on ensuring each entertainment event had the correct parking passes and maps indicating where to park. I was also able to step out and take pictures of everything going on around the fair! Wednesday night we had a concert that I was able to attend and take a few pictures for our social media. The concert was put on by lifepoint collective, which is a Christian church located right here in Columbus! It was amazing to see so many people come together to worship. 

Thursday morning and afternoon Mila and I interviewed several concessionaires, and vendors about their booths. Asking them a few questions about what they are selling, how long they have been at the fair and a final fun question about their favorite ride or part of the fair! Later Thursday night, several of my fellow fellows were able to come to the fair and I was able to give them a tour and ride a few fair rides! It was nice to step out of the office and take a few hours to enjoy the fair.

Today is the Truck and Tractor pull which I’m told is a highlight of the fair. I can’t wait to see what this event will look like. One of my favorite parts of the fair is getting to experience a whole new culture of people and activities I never even knew existed. 

Until next week!

~Elena