traditions that shaped its early years, the facility has expanded to meet the needs of the community and the region. Our first fair was in 1918,” shares CEO and Manager Jason Brockshus. “A very passionate group of local farmers and business people got together and started the fair.” More than a century later, it is widely known as the “World’s Greatest County Fair,” a title bestowed by radio reporters in the 1920s. While the flagship September fair remains the heart of its identity, it now operates as a year-round venue. “We have over 300 non-fair events that we host throughout the year in our event center and on the grounds, including graduation parties, wedding ceremonies and receptions, business meetings, expos, trade shows, as well as produced events like craft fairs and car shows,” Brockshus continues. “We also host a summer race series, concerts, entertainment events, and festivals throughout the year.” A FLEXIBLE VENUE One defining feature of the Clay County Fair & Events Center is its adaptability. From air-conditioned indoor pavilions to outdoor arenas and racing facilities, the grounds are designed to accommodate a wide range of uses year-round.That flexibility was further enhanced in 2017 with the addition of the Tower Gate Pavilion, a 12,000-square-foot, climatecontrolled space that can accommodate vendor shows, receptions, and special events. “We also have livestock facilities and host livestock shows throughout the year. Our livestock facilities are also flexible because all of our pens can be disassembled, and those livestock barns can turn into an exhibit space, which we’ve done for different touring groups, for tractors and such,” Brockshus expands. Outdoor amenities add another layer of opportunity, and the Clay County Speedway hosts approximately 20 races each summer, running from spring through fall. In addition, the outdoor arena supports horse shows, rodeos, and other seasonal happenings. Combined with in-house catering, the fairgrounds 83 BUSINESS VIEW MAGAZINE VOLUME 13, ISSUE 01 CLAY COUNTY FAIR AND EVENTS CENTER
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