Clay County Fair to celebrate community's resiliency

Area residents will be able to take a much-needed breather over the next week thanks to The World's Greatest County Fair.

The Clay County Fair begins Saturday and runs through Sept. 15. In the wake of this year's devastating floods that slammed Spencer and the surrounding area, Fair Manager Jerome Hertel believed everything is a little more important in 2024.

"This year, the Clay County Fair is more than just an event; it's a celebration of the resilience and community spirit that define Spencer," he said. "It will be a time for everyone to come together and support each other."

While the fair will offer a much-needed reprieve over its nine-day run, it also provided vital assistance during the flood. The event center was used as a temporary shelter, Tower Gate Pavilion operated as a FEMA command center for recovery operations, and the north parking lot served as a temporary collection center for flood debris. Additionally, the campgrounds continue to provide temporary housing for displaced residents via an RV park.

"Our staff and board are working tirelessly to ensure that this year's Clay County Fair will be the best it can be," Hertel said. "We look forward to seeing everyone for what promises to be a meaningful and memorable celebration."

The Clay County Fair has also launched a flood recovery fundraiser to support ongoing recovery efforts. Fairgoers will have the opportunity to donate when purchasing tickets online, and donation stations will be available throughout the fairgrounds during the event. All contributions will go directly toward rebuilding and strengthening the communities affected by the flooding.