Clay County Fair Opens Doors with New Features and High Expectations

CLAY COUNTY, Fla. – The 39th annual Clay County Fair kicked off today at 2 p.m. with local vendors preparing their booths and rides undergoing final inspections. This year’s fair promises new attractions and entertainment, as organizers anticipate a turnout of nearly 200,000 visitors over the event’s duration.

Sheriff Michelle Cook emphasized the fair’s significance, likening it to ‘Clay County’s Super Bowl,’ and urged visitors to stay aware of their surroundings. ‘We have lots of deputies in uniform that’ll be working. The fair has security guards, and we will also have undercover personnel monitoring the crowd,’ she stated. ‘We want people to enjoy the fair, but we’re going to keep it very safe.’

For the opening day, the entry fee is set at only $5, with regular prices for adults at $15 and $9 for children and seniors. Children under five receive free admission. The fair will run through April 13, featuring a variety of live entertainment, delicious food, and new rides.

New this year is a Fast Pass for rides, costing between $15 and $20, enabling eager visitors to bypass longer lines. ‘It is a way that riders who really, really want to ride a lot of rides can get in and cut some of the lines,’ said Andy Deggeller, who set up the rides. Exciting options include the ‘Rock and Roll’ attraction and the ‘Lolly Swing,’ along with a kiddie ride called ‘Pirates Revenge.’

Cook revealed that public safety has been a top priority during fair preparations, with planning starting three months in advance. With expectations for increased foot traffic, she advised attendees to consider alternative routes. Parking will be available within the grounds, and vehicles parked on State Road 16 will be towed.

The fair showcases an array of family entertainment, including country music performances from artists like Clint Black and Ricky Skaggs. Fireworks are scheduled for 10 p.m. on opening night, and multiple activities, such as the demolition derby and tractor pulls, will occur in the Cattlemen’s Arena.

‘The energy that’s here is a really big deal,’ said Daniel Jolley, owner of the ‘Custom Engraving Ring Booth,’ who has been attending the Clay County Fair for four years and appreciates its growth and community involvement.

This year, the management is highlighting agricultural education by reintroducing Exhibition Room 1, a space for judging art and photographs. Brockshus has plans for ongoing developments as the new CEO, emphasizing a commitment to preserving tradition while embracing innovation.

Throughout the fairgrounds, organizers are providing several amenities for comfort, including water stations, cooling tents, and a general store selling essentials like sunscreen and rain ponchos. Guests are reminded to dress for comfort, especially as warmer weather is expected over the coming days.

As the Clay County Fair opens its gates, visitors are encouraged to download the Safer Watch App for real-time updates regarding safety and potential issues throughout the event. With years of cherished memories associated with the fair, attendees of all ages are expected to have a memorable experience this year.