If you are heading to the Kiwanis Ogeechee Fair in Statesboro, Georgia, get ready for a lively day of fun and memories with fellow seniors, friends, and family.
October 14-19, 2024, is ‘Fair Week’ in the Boro, a time to indulge, mingle, and enjoy the sights and sounds of the fair. This year is no exception: bright colors, lights, balloons, flags, people, food and entertainment are all included in its splendor.
On Tuesday, October 15, the fair held its annual Senior Night, offering free admission for those "65 or better."
With well-lit entrances from the parking areas, easily accessible paths to the majority of eateries, arts & craft displays, nightly entertainment, and great signage for the ATMs and restrooms, the Kiwanis volunteers have thought of everything.
The Kiwanis Ogeechee Fair has a rich history dating back to1962. Founded by the Kiwanis Club of Statesboro, it began as a way to promote community development and fundraising with a focus on agricultural exhibits, livestock shows, and home economics displays.
The first fair was held on a 12-acre site near the Ogeechee River, and in the 1980s it was relocated to a 30-acre site on Highway 67, Fair Road and introduced Midway rides, games, entertainment, commercial exhibits, food vendors, and craft booths. In the 2000s, it expanded to 45 acres with an improved infrastructure and increased focus on youth exhibits and educational programs with an emphasis on local talents, businesses, and organizations.
The young at heart enjoyed a fun-filled evening
There is something for everyone, whether you’re in the mood for a fried treat or just want to take in the sights, and the exhibits are a reminder of our community's talent and spirit.
One senior gent said, ”I saw lots of happy children with their parents and grandparents enjoying themselves.” Yes, the fair is a reminder of the ‘simple joys’ of life and the importance of connection, especially as we navigate our ‘Young and Heart’ or ‘Golden Years.’
“We love the feeling of community at the Kiwanis Ogeechee Fair, even if Amusements of America ‘Won't Let Me Ride the Horses’ on the Carousel anymore,” shared a smiling couple, Ricky and Susan Allen.
The Kiwanis Pancake House treats diners to fair-food goodness - pancakes, large fried sausages, plenty of syrup and butter, and cold drinks, which are best enjoyed while sitting picnic style with friends. The extraordinary service of the Kiwanis volunteers keeps the line moving quickly, and an abundance of servers and great clean-up crews are all welcome parts of the Pancake House experience: It's always clean, tidy, and ready for the next customer to sit, eat and enjoy! Plus it's delicious!
Carol Mendes, Willow Pond Senior Care resident shared, “In my years, I never thought to come to the Pancake House when the fair was here. I remember when it was just a barn with picnic stands. Look at it now!”
Must see:
Don't miss these amazing stops while you're there, plus many more.
- Mini Booths - Stop and see your favorite businesses and farm equipment up close
- 4-H Booths - Take a look at informative displays, plus poultry and livestock shows
- Interactive experiences - Enjoy the magic shows, Black Smith shop, pig races, and Bee House with local honey
- Food vendors - Choose from funnel cakes, popcorn, peanuts, cotton candy, BBQ, and a variety of vendors and food trucks
- Gallery artwork - Arts & crafts exhibits featuring local artists
- Activities - Ferris wheel, cool rides, kiddie area, petting zoo, mechanical bull + more…
Tips for a great visit:
- Bring cash (ATMs available if you need them)
- Bring hats and comfortable shoes (with grippers)
- Bring a sweater, jacket or your favorite sleeveless vest
- Arrive early for great parking, accessible parking spots. Helpful attendants.
- Be early, stay late!!
Enjoy all the fair has to offer, including a heaping abundance of laughter, chatting, and ‘full tummies.’ John Sullivan, senior guest, wrapped it up nicely, “I think the fair showed a great overall improvement over last year. The grounds were clean and the security team was outstanding.”
Most of all, BE READY TO HAVE FUN! Variety comes FREE for your next Senior Moment!
CLICK HERE for Grice Connect's fair guide which answers all your fair questions.
