THE BALLOON MAN

Montgomery County Agricultural Fair returns
Time-honored tradition lives on in the Internet Age, as visitors still flock to pigs, pies and, of course, monster trucks

 

Tom Fedor/The Gazette
 The Montgomery County Agricultural Fair in Gaithersburg uses Facebook, direct mail and outdoor advertising to draw fairgoers.
by Lindsey Robbins Staff writer
from: gazette.net
Aug 17, 2012
Even in an age when most of the younger generation’s daily life seems devoted to checking social media, other online activities and video games, many families still are happy to spend a day at the fair.
Some fair organizers throughout the state say the slow economic recovery has only intensified interest in fairs, as families see them as less costly alternatives to vacations than resorts and theme parks.
But development pressures on fair property serve as constant reminders that despite their nostalgic tradition, fairs must find new ways to adapt to the 21st century.
“They’re a safe environment, a throwback to simpler times,” said Gail Yeiser, assistant to the dean for alumni and external relations for the University of Maryland’s College of Agriculture and Natural Resources.
Some fairs, most of which operate as nonprofits, generate millions in revenues. The Maryland State Fair in Timonium reported $5.7 million in 2010 revenues, according its latest available tax return. But the revenues often are practically offset by large expenses, such as $5.6 million in reported expenses for the state fair that year.
The state fair costs $8 for admission and runs from Aug. 24 through Sept. 3.
“You can’t even go to the movies for that price anymore,” said Andrew Cashman, assistant general manager for the state fair. “Most of the people we talk to say people aren’t traveling for vacations but will come to the fair for one day.”
Although a tropical storm and earthquake slammed the state fair last year, Cashman said it usually sees strong turnouts.
Anywhere from 7,000 to 12,000 exhibitors show at the state fair, displaying livestock and crafts, and giving demonstrations. Typically, an additional 75 to 100 vendors line the 100-acre fairgrounds, Cashman said.
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http://www.gazette.net/article/20120817/NEWS/708179780/1123/montgomery-county-agricultural-fair-returns&template=gazette