Last call for fair entries

Time is running out. The deadline to submit exhibit applications for this year’s Madera District Fair is next week. Submissions are due by 6 p.m. Tuesday.

Exhibitors’ handbooks are available at the fair office, 1850 W. Cleveland Avenue, at local merchants and online at www.maderafair.com. Fair entry paperwork is only valid on forms generated by the fair. No electronic or online entries will be accepted. Entries may be delivered or mailed to the fair office postmarked by Aug. 16.

“This year our theme is “It’s Your Fair,” said CEO Tom Mitchell. “The board of directors and staff appreciates the Madera County residents whose participation and attendance makes the Madera fair such a success year after year.”

Contests for the 2016 fair include longtime favorites and several new additions. There will be a new barbecue rib cook-off, live floral arranging challenge, and numerous photography and fine art competitions.

“The handbook contains information on all contests, fees, guidelines and relevant submission deadlines,” said Mitchell.

Competitions are open to individuals and group entries with numerous class project competitions. “Our fair guests, both young and old, have created a great tradition of family fun at the Madera District Fair,” said Mitchell. “We invite Maderans to display their talents exhibiting fair photos and artwork in our new billboard contest.”

The Heritage Foundation and Madera Fair have created a unique contest for Madera county high school juniors and seniors called “I Love this Town.” Students can illustrate their community service projects using a tri-fold presentation board. Six entries will be selected to be presented verbally on the Patio Stage during opening night. Cash prizes will be awarded to the first, second and third place winners in the amounts of $500, $300 and $200 respectively.

To encourage wider participation, a new First Time Exhibitor category is open to county residents age 19 and older. These exhibitors will receive one free opening night, Sept. 8, fair admission. Contest divisions are photography, fine arts and baked goods. Each entry will be judged American Style and ribbons awarded. Complete instructions and restrictions can be found on the back page of the exhibitors’ handbook.

Handbooks are available at the offices of the UC Cooperative Extension, Evans Feed in Madera and Chowchilla, Valley Feed, Madera Chamber of Commerce, Madera and Ranchos libraries, Chowchilla fairgrounds, Oakhurst Feed and The Sierra Star. For information, contact the Madera District Fair office at 674-8511 or visit www.maderafair.com.