Win Money, Fair and Square!

One hundred and nine fairs belong to the Pennsylvania State Association of County Fairs (PSACF).  Pennsylvania has sixty-seven counties, which means a local fair, society, or association is within reach of most of the geographical area of the Commonwealth.  5.5 million people attend a PSACF fair each year (www.pafairs.org).  Of those 5.5 million annual visitors, it’s possible that many are not familiar with all the perks a local fair has to offer!

One fact that may not be particularly well-known is: in Pennsylvania (and indeed across the United States), fairs distribute prize money called “premiums” to winning contestants who submit entries in myriad “departments” of competition.  Examples of categories include livestock (horses, cattle, poultry), produce (hay, vegetables), baked goods, art (needlecraft, photography), and farm equipment.  The departments are set forth in the PA Code under the State Premium Guidelines Book.  Each member fair creates and publishes a “Premium Book” which is made available online or as a hard copy.  This book, specific to each fair, outlines the approved prize money for each department.  The document is public and available for everyone to review well in advance of the event. 

Provisions in the state budget allow for Pennsylvania fairs to be reimbursed, in part, for funds dispersed to prize winners.  In order for a PSACF member fair to qualify for premium reimbursement, the organization must adhere to certain guidelines.  A few examples of these guidelines include: conducting a fair which exhibits agricultural products, conducts educational demonstrations, and provides that at least 25% of the events for which prize money is paid are open class events (www.pacode.com).   

While many fair-goers are familiar with the midway amusements and food and beverage offerings, the average fair attendee might not know they are eligible to participate in these judged events.  Members of the public can submit an entry form to compete in events at their local fair if they meet the applicant criteria.  Premiums for winning entries are paid by check to the winning contestant.

The Premium book for the Jefferson County can be accessed by visiting www.jeffcofair.com/premium-book/