The 62nd annual Kiwanis Ogeechee Fair is a cherished event in the Statesboro community and a must-visit for all attendees from near and far. Scheduled to take place from October 14th to October 19th, the fair is hosted at the Kiwanis Ogeechee Fairgrounds thanks to the dedicated efforts of the Kiwanis Club of Statesboro.
A quick history route reveals that the Statesboro chapter of the Kiwanis Club, a non-profit organization focusing on child-centered community service projects, was founded in 1960 with an initial charter of 28 members. Fast forward to today, the Kiwanis Ogeechee Fair serves as the primary fundraising event, with all proceeds supporting diverse local initiatives. Whether it is providing scholarships to high school seniors, organizing museum trips for elementary school students, supplying foster care kits to children, sneakily building wheelchair ramps for those in need, or uplifting other local causes, the impact of the fair spans across all sections of the community.
The fair is home to a myriad of fun-filled activities suitable for all age groups. It brings live entertainment with an impressive line-up of bands and artists such as The Swingin’ Medallions, The Tams and The Ripleys. There will be thrill-inducing shows each night like Rosaire’s Royal Racers pig races and Lance Gifford’s Magic Theater among others. If you’re an animal lover, the Camp Carousel Petting Zoo shouldn’t be missed. The midway is enhanced by the services of Amusements of America, providing an adrenaline rush with their assortment of rides.
But that’s not all, the Kiwanis Ogeechee Fair is also a food paradise. Delectable foods like funnel cakes, cotton candies, candied apples, and fresh pork skins can drive any food enthusiast’s taste buds crazy. And if you have a competitive streak in you, there’s the Miss Kiwanis Ogeechee Fair Pageant, the community parade downtown, and a chance to display your art, craft, canned goods, produce or baked goods in one of the many exhibits.
In June, a unique program encourages local youngsters to apply to raise an animal, which they later present at the fair’s livestock shows. Children owning chicks, lambs, goats or hogs are also imparted the value of responsibility and record-keeping.
To give visitors a peek into simpler times, the fair features a Heritage Village. Visiting this area allows you to step back in time, enjoying treats such as old-fashioned penny candy, 10-cent Cokes, and syrup-making while exploring the restored 19th century Aldrich House. The hard work of the Kiwanis Club members and their families ensures that this village adds to the overall fair experience.
Let’s not forget the Pancake House. A trip to the fair is incomplete without eating at this venue. Run by passionate Kiwanian volunteers, this tradition combines the joy of hot pancakes and fresh sausage with the satisfaction of contributing to a noble cause. The aroma alone is worth the visit!
Whether it’s your first time visiting or you are a regular attendee of the Kiwanis Ogeechee Fair, there is always something exciting and new to explore. It’s not just a fair, it’s a celebration of community, culture, and commitment to uplift the society. The 62nd Annual Kiwanis Ogeechee Fair promises to be a memorable experience, so grab your calendars and save these dates.
