and a new beginning

WEST PALM BEACH, Fla. — The South Florida Fair is bidding “fair-well” to Vicki Chouris, president & CEO of the South Florida Fair & Palm Beach County Expositions, Inc. Her retirement as of June 30 at the close of the fair’s fiscal year marks the end of an era. She has been with the fair for 43 years.

Chouris was responsible for overseeing a staff of 55 people and managing the production of the annual 17-day fair. Among her highlights as CEO, she successfully navigated the COVID pandemic in 2020. The South Florida Fair was one of the few fairs in the nation to hold its annual event, and in 2021, Chouris decided to hold an additional fair in May to make up for smaller crowds at the January fair due to the lingering effects of the pandemic.

Chouris said what she’ll miss the most are the people — her staff and the volunteers who make it all happen.

“I’ll also miss seeing the smiles of the fairgoers, knowing that they are bringing joy to thousands of people, thanks to the time, effort and talents of our staff and volunteers,” said Chouris.

Matt Wallsmith will take the reins from Chouris starting July 1, a promotion from his current position of chief financial officer. During his 26 years with the South Florida Fair, he was responsible for handling the accounting and overseeing the gates, midway, concessions, information technology and maintenance operations. Wallsmith earned a master’s degree in accounting from the University of Florida and began his career in public accounting at Ernst & Young LLP. He is currently a licensed CPA in Florida.

As the new president & CEO, Wallsmith plans to focus on improving parking and enhancing the overall experience and value for fairgoers.

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As the saying goes, “All good things must come to an end.” For Vicki Chouris, president & CEO of the South Florida Fair & Palm Beach County Expositions, Inc., her time is coming to an end when she retires on June 30, 2024, the close of the fair’s fiscal year.

Her last fair was this past January 12-28, marking the end of an era. She has been a full-time employee of the South Florida Fair since 1985 — 39 years. If you add her part-time years with the fair, it’s an impressive 43 years!

She closed out this year’s fair with a ride on the Midway Sky Eye, North America's largest traveling Ferris wheel. Frank Zaitshik, owner of Wade Shows, arranged for her and her staff to ride together before turning off the lights for the last time in 2024.

Chouris’ time with the fair began when she moved to Florida and was working for a bank. In 1982, the fair’s finance director asked if anyone would like to help during the fair in the finance office and she said yes.

“I did that for four consecutive fairs and then I was offered a full-time position as executive secretary to the CEO after the 1985 fair,” said Chouris.

She worked her way up through the nonprofit organizations, holding the positions of sponsorship manager and chief operating officer. In July 2019, she was named president & CEO, becoming the first woman to ever hold that position with the South Florida Fair.

Chouris oversees a staff of 55 people and is responsible for managing the production of the annual 17-day fair. During the COVID pandemic in 2020, the South Florida Fair was one of the few fairs in the nation to hold its annual event. Chouris decided to hold two fairs in 2021 to make up for smaller crowds at the first fair due to the pandemic.

Not only is Chouris a valuable and respected professional in the Palm Beaches, the same can be said of her in the fair industry. She’s the Florida Federation of Fairs’ past chair and currently serves on the Nominating and Bylaws Committee. She is a past board member of the International Association of Fairs & Expositions’ representing Zone 2. She’s also currently on the Florida Festival & Events Association’s Past President’s Council and a past chair. She holds several other leadership positions within her local community and has won many awards.

Chouris has seen many changes through the years. During her four decades of working for the fair, she has witnessed the fair almost doubling in size. The event started as a 10-day fair and is now 17 days. Parades have become a daily happening during the fair and there are now five stages of entertainment. In general, the fair is more sophisticated compared to its earlier days, including the advancement of technology and being sensory inclusive.

Chouris said what she’ll miss the most are the people — her staff and the volunteers who make it all happen.

“I’ll also also miss seeing the smiles of the fairgoers, knowing that they are bringing joy to thousands of people, thanks to the time, effort and talents of our staff and volunteers,” said Chouris.

Chouris has been married to Toby Notman for 25 years and while they don’t have specific plans once she bids “fair-well,” she knows traveling with him is in the works.

And of course, returning to the South Florida Fair as a true fairgoer in 2025!

South Florida Fair names new officers and Hall of Fame inductees

2022 South Florida Fair awards more than $50,000 in scholarships

WEST PALM BEACH, Fla. — The South Florida Fair has awarded scholarships to 19 high school students totaling $50,750, continuing a 40-year tradition of supporting education. The fair received more than 100 applications from five counties for this year’s scholarships. Winners received their scholarships in a ceremony with fair dignitaries and their families during the 2022 fair, which recently ended. The winners’ scholarships range from $500 to $5,000 and can be used at any accredited institution of higher learning.

Since the program began in 1982, the South Florida Fair has awarded more than $800,000 in scholarships. This year they were awarded in two categories: general and agriculture. The fair’s scholarship committee selected the winners based on the students’ grades, need, and an essay each wrote to “Describe something you’re passionate about.”

Students from Palm Beach, Broward, Martin, Hendry, and Okeechobee counties were eligible to apply. Each finalist was interviewed by the fair’s scholarship committee, who selected the winners. Becky Isiminger chaired the volunteer committee, and Donna Winterson served as vice chair. Other volunteer committee volunteers were Tim Childers, Mabel Datena, Tiffany Faublas, Lee Glaze, Sarah B. Hoadley, Glenn Jergensen, Robi Jurney, Dan Lewis, Annis Manning, Stephanie Mitrione, John Severson, Christine Shaw, Bill Sneed, Aquannette Thomas, Eva Webb, Jalynsey Brown, Ashley Cacicedo, Alyssa Freeman, Joseph Garcia, Lauren Johnson, Ava Parker and Katie Sptizig.

The 2022 scholarship recipients were: Blaine Baxter of Jupiter High School; Leena Bolanos, Landry Pitts and Camber Pope, all from Glades Day School; Muhammad Chaudhry of Palm Beach Gardens High School, Kate Deviney of Dreyfoos School of the Arts, Megan Enriquez of Grandview Preparatory School; Malayna Estornell of Lake Worth Christian Academy; Zachary Fleisch and Carolina Seixas, both from American Heritage Academy’s Delray Beach campus; Gabriel Gerig of Inlet Grove Community High School; Sydnee Gilliam and Evelyn Howe from Clark Advanced Learning Center; Jaylin Ifill and Caroline McCray of Clewiston High School; Moshammet Jarin of Glades Central High School; Nicole Perez of Atlantic Community High School; Ryan Rudnet of Park Vista High School, and William Rimes of Seminole Ridge High School.

Historic South Florida Fair closing Sunday night— Fair organizers deem it a success

South Florida Fair to bring back $2 Tuesday next week

WEST PALM BEACH, Fla. — Due to popular demand and as a thank you to fairgoers who supported the mini-fair in January and the current fair, South Florida Fair organizers are bringing back $2 Tuesday.

That means admission to the fair on Tuesday, May 18, will be just $2 and may be purchased at the gate. Kids 10 and younger will be free. In addition, every food vendor will offer a sample food item for just $2 and most rides also will be $2.

South Florida Fair organizers first offered $2 Tuesdays during the 2017 fair as part of a “Fat Tuesdays” promotion during that year’s New Orleans-themed fair.

The $2 admission includes various exhibits, interactive activities, shows and entertainment, including the ever-popular ice skating show, a Vegas style comedy hypnotist show, Steve Trash’s Science of Ecology show, the Agricadabra: Going Green with Ag show, street performers, concerts on the Coca Cola stage, the Cool Zoo exhibit with live tortoises, birds and butterflies, baby marmosets, a 40-foot Lego exhibit, the all-new Sundy Fresh Market, an augmented reality experience titled “Air, Land & Sea,” agricultural shows, Yesteryear Village’s exhibit of small and baby animals, and of course, racing pigs.

For more information, photos and videos about the South Florida Fair, go online to www.southfloridafair.com.

Local and regional entertainment to be featured at South Florida Fair

WEST PALM BEACH, Fla. — Not only can fairgoers enjoy their favorite fair foods and rides, they also will have many opportunities to be entertained by a number of local and regional bands at the South Florida Fair, May 7-23, 9067 Southern Blvd.

Coca-Cola Stage (headliners in bold)

Friday, May 14

• 7:30 p.m. – Passafire – A band that formed in Savannah, GA and is part of the U.S. reggae scene.

Saturday, May 15

• 11 a.m. – The Latin Ensemble – An international award-winning Latin band located in Boynton Beach and Tenerife, Spain.

• 7:30 p.m. – Love and Theft – Longtime friends and bandmates Stephen Barker Liles and Eric Gunderson launched with the number 1 country smash “Angel Eyes” and top 10 hit “Runaway.”

Sunday, May 16

• 11 a.m. – Allegra Miles – Singer/songwriter based in West Palm Beach who was a semi-finalist on NBC’s “The Voice,” season 18, finishing in the top 9.

• 7:30 p.m. – The Band Roland – Led by Josh René, a South Florida musician who has been playing music for over 15 years.

Saturday, May 22

• 11 a.m. – Ricky Valido, a unique country music songwriter and performer with Cuban American roots.

• 7:30 p.m. – Ryan Montgomery, who was just out of high school when he decided to park his truck in the middle of thousands of country music fans and perform right off the back of his tailgate outside the Amphitheater in his hometown of West Palm Beach. Just two years later, he performed on the main stage at one of South Florida’s largest country music festivals inside that very same amphitheater.

Senior Days

Friday, May 7 and 21

• 11 a.m. – Bob Hoose & His Orchestra: A Tribute to Sinatra - Bob Hoose has quickly become one of the top vocalists in the country today and has been wowing crowds of thousands along the East Coast and throughout the country for years with his strong vocal ability and natural talent.

• 7:30 p.m. – N2Nation: Motown & More! A high energy, audience participation show that takes audiences back to some of the greatest memories of the Motown magic.

Tribute Bands

Tuesday, May 11, 7:30 p.m. – Never Stop Believin’

Never Stop Believin’ has been rocking stages all over the U.S. and beyond since its inception in 2008 and is recognized by many venues to be the premier Journey tribute band.

Wednesday, May 12, 7:30 p.m. – ZZ’s Best

ZZ’s Best has been a project in the works for many years. The band originally started out as just another cover band playing the Southwest Florida scene but soon after opened for major groups, including Styx, Lynyrd Skynyrd, Mountain, Greg Allman, Rick Derringer, Grand Funk Railroad and Edgar Winter.

Friday, May 14, 11 a.m. – Across The Universe

The ultimate Beatles tribute band is comprised of professional studio and touring musicians who bring the music of The Beatles and their solo careers to life on stage with an accuracy and attention to detail that has been described by audiences as “incredible.”

Tuesday, May 18, 7:30 p.m. – Smokin’: A Tribute To Boston

This tribute band will take audiences back in time through Boston’s favorite songs including such hits as “More Than A Feeling,” “Amanda,” and the flat-out rockin “Smokin.’”

Wednesday, May 19, 7:30 p.m. – Touch & Go – The Ultimate Cars Tribute

Packing a full two hour set of music spanning the entire Cars catalogue, audiences will be transported back in time to the late 70s and 80s, which is when this band first launched.

Thursday, May 20, 7:30 p.m. – Completely Unchained – Van Halen Tribute

This band is comprised of four talented and creative musicians that re-create the ultimate Van Halen production – the attitude, sounds, excitement, energy and most of all the fun that Van Halen produced as one of the best rock bands in the world.

Local favorites

Local bands that will be performing include Spred The Dub, Destiny Lopez, Joey Tenuto Jr., Jake Walden Band, Hot Sauce Moon, Fox Maple Band, Rogue Theory, Whisky Six, Quille Romero, Dennis Lee, Tom and Bonnie, Joey Calderaio, DJ Cole Rippe and The Hoodlums Company Crew. For a complete schedule and details, go to the fair’s website, www.southfloridafair.com.

Advance tickets and ride vouchers are only being sold online via the fair’s website, www.southfloridafair.com through May 6, 2021. Buying a ticket in advance allows for contactless admission and avoiding having to wait in line at the ticket booths. Guests with an advance ticket will show their barcode on their phone at the gate. Admission is free for children 10 and younger, in advance and at the gate. (Last year, it was 5 and younger.) Advance tickets are $10 for 11 years and older and may be used any day. Tickets at the gate will be $10, good Monday-Friday, and $20 on Saturday and Sunday.

2021 South Florida Fair Facts at a glance

Dates & Theme:109^th annual South Florida Fair: May 7-23, 2021 — “An Earthly A-Fair”

Hours:

• Monday-Thursday – 4-10 p.m.

• Friday, Saturday and Sunday – 10 a.m.-10 p.m.

Free admission opportunities:

• On opening day, noon to 2 p.m., guests will be admitted free during the first two hours, compliments of Ford.

• On May 14, Humana Senior Day, seniors admitted free the first hour, and then $5 after that for 60 or better.

• On May 21, guests will be admitted free during the first hour, compliments of iTHINK Financial.

Main attractions: (see Features release for an entire list of attractions)

• Exhibits and interactive activities relating to the earth and conservation, including an augmented reality experience titled “Air, Land & Sea” in partnership with National Geographic

• The return of spectacular rides, including two new rides — The Dragons Nest Sky Hawk — and the Midway Sky Eye, North America's largest traveling Ferris wheel

• Daily ice skating shows

• Two stages of continuous entertainment

• All buildings will be open and will include shopping with vendors, arts and crafts, and displays of live birds, bees and butterflies.

• Livestock shows including a Brahman Youth Show, a Junior Angus show, an American Dairy Goat sanctioned show, and a youth dairy show

• A revamped Sundy Fresh Market offering a boutique shopping experience with locally sourced and produced foods, goods and products

• Dozens of food vendors offering fried favorites and more that fairgoers have come to count on

Admission:

Advance tickets are being sold exclusively via the fair’s website, www.southfloridafair.com, through midnight on May 6, 2021. Admission is free for children 10 and younger, in advance and at the gate. Advance tickets are $10 for 11 years and older and may be used any day. Guests with an advance ticket will show their barcode on their phone or present a printed copy of their purchase at the gate. Tickets at the gate will be $10, good Monday-Friday, and $20 on Saturday and Sunday.

Parking: Free general parking. Preferred parking is $10 Monday-Friday and $20 Saturdays and Sundays.

Directions:

• The South Florida Fair is on Southern Boulevard in West Palm Beach just one mile west of the Florida Turnpike, exit #97.

• From I-95: Exit at Southern Blvd. Go west about 7 miles to Sansburys Way.

• From Florida Turnpike: Exit at Southern Blvd. Go west 1.5 miles to Sansburys Way.

South Florida Fair to hold unprecedented second fair in 2 weeks

WEST PALM BEACH, Fla. — For the first time in its 109-year history, the South Florida Fair will hold a second fair in the same year. This unprecedented second fair is being held from May 7-23 at the fairgrounds, 9067 Southern Blvd.

Due to the pandemic, the first fair was held as a “mini fair” in January — when the annual full-fledged fair normally takes place — and was held completely outdoors. The fair in May will include both indoor and outdoor features and activities that are typical of what fairgoers have come to expect each year.

The fair's theme is “An Earthly A-Fair” and will include exhibits and interactive activities relating to the earth and conservation. This includes NOAA’s virtual presentations on Hurricane-Mania, Dynamic Seas and Earth from Space, and environmental movies throughout the day. National Geographic will present an augmented reality experience titled “Air, Land & Sea.”

The fair also will feature all of the rides that fairgoers have come to count on, including the “giant wheel,” known as the Midway Sky Eye. It's North America's largest traveling Ferris wheel, reaching a peak height of 155 feet and comprised of more than 500 pieces. It's equipped with more than 524,000 individual LED red, green, blue, yellow, orange and purple lights, making it the brightest spectacle at the fair. Riders can see for miles from the top.

Also returning, the ever-popular ice skating show, racing pigs and giant sand sculpture, which are all favorites among fairgoers. All of the buildings will be open for the usual shopping with vendors, arts and crafts, and displays of live birds, bees and butterflies. There also will be live entertainment featuring a number of local and regional bands.

There will be some livestock shows, including a Brahman Youth Show, a Junior Angus show, an American Dairy Goat sanctioned show, and a youth dairy show. Yesteryear Village will feature an exhibit of small and baby animals and the agricultural area will include an exhibit of rabbits and poultry. The Sundy Feed Store Fresh Market is being transformed into a “boutique” shopping experience and will feature locally sourced and produced foods, goods and products.

In accordance with Palm Beach County COVID-19 mandates, facial coverings will be required to wear at all times. Fair organizers also are encouraging social distancing and frequent hand sanitizing. The fair will be using a new contactless ticketing system on the gates and on the midway.

Advance tickets and ride vouchers are only being sold online via the fair’s website, www.southfloridafair.com through May 6, 2021. Buying a ticket in advance results in considerable weekend savings, allows for contactless admission, and avoiding waiting in lines at the ticket booths. Guests with an advance ticket will show their barcode on their phone at the gate.

Admission is free for children 10 and younger, in advance and at the gate. (Last year, it was 5 and younger.) Advance tickets are $10 for 11 years and older and may be used any day. Tickets at the gate will be $10, good Monday-Friday, and $20 on Saturday and Sunday.

For more information, photos and videos about the South Florida Fair, go online to www.southfloridafair.com.

Plans under way for 2021 South Florida Fair

WEST PALM BEACH, Fla. — Planning is well under way for the South Florida Fair in May. Normally held in January, fair organizers held a “mini fair” January 15-31 due to the pandemic and will hold a typical, full-fledged fair from May 7-23 at the fairgrounds, 9067 Southern Blvd.

The fair's theme is “An Earthly A-Fair” and will include exhibits and interactive activities relating to the earth and conservation. This includes NOAA’s virtual presentations on Hurricane-Mania, Dynamic Seas and Earth from Space, and environmental movies throughout the day. National Geographic will present an augmented reality experience titled “Air, Land & Sea.”

The fair also will feature all of the rides that fairgoers have come to count on, including the “giant wheel,” known as the Midway Sky Eye. It's North America's largest traveling Ferris wheel, reaching a peak height of 155 feet and comprised of more than 500 pieces. It's equipped with more than 524,000 individual LED red, green, blue, yellow, orange and purple lights, making it the brightest spectacle at the fair. Riders can see for miles from the top.

Also returning, the ever-popular ice skating show, racing pigs and giant sand sculpture, which are all favorites among fairgoers. All of the buildings will be open for the usual shopping with vendors, arts and crafts, and displays of live birds, bees and butterflies. There also will be live entertainment featuring a number of local and regional bands.

There will be some livestock shows, including a Brahman Youth Show, a Junior Angus show, an American Dairy Goat sanctioned show, and a youth dairy show. Yesteryear Village will feature an exhibit of small and baby animals and the agricultural area will include an exhibit of rabbits and poultry. The Sundy Feed Store Fresh Market is being transformed into a “boutique” shopping experience and will feature locally sourced and produced foods, goods and products. More activities will be announced closer to the start of the fair.

The fair will follow the recommendations of Palm Beach County regarding masks, social distancing and sanitizing. The fair will be using a new contactless ticketing system on the gates and on the midway. Fairgoers may review the new operations and sanitation procedures on the fair’s website at www.southfloridafair.com.

Three-day Gold Pass flash sale starts this Friday, March 26

For three days only, Friday, March 26, Saturday, March 27 and Sunday, March 28, everyone who purchases an advance ride voucher for the 2021 South Florida Fair will receive a free Gold Access pass, which allows fairgoers to move to the front of the line at a special checkerboard lane. All Gold Access guests will be given a VIP lanyard and special wristband to access Gold Access privileges.

Also, everyone who purchases a $25 Power Pass (admission and unlimited rides) will receive a Gold Access pass (valued up to $20). Advance admission tickets will also be available for purchase (online only) during this promotion at www.southfloridafair.com.

For more information, photos and videos about the South Florida Fair, go online to www.southfloridafair.com.

Simplified and lower-priced ticketing for 2021

• Advance tickets and ride vouchers are only being sold online via the fair’s website, www.southfloridafair.com from March 26, 2020 through May 6, 2021.

• Buying a ticket in advance allows for contactless admission and avoiding having to wait in line at the ticket booths. Guests with an advance ticket will show their barcode on their phone at the gate.

• Admission is free for children 10 and younger, in advance and at the gate! (Last year, it was 5 and younger.) Advance tickets are $10 for 11 years and older and may be used any day.

• Tickets at the gate will be $10, good Monday-Friday, and $20 on Saturday and Sunday.

UNPRECEDENTED: South Florida Fair adds 2nd fair

South Florida Fair to present two fairs in 2021

2021 South Florida Fair now canceled and being replaced by mini-fair

“This decision came about due to growing concerns about the safety of our guests during this pandemic,” said Vicki Chouris, the fair’s president & CEO. “Hosting a scaled back, outdoor version of our traditional fair will still allow fairgoers to enjoy a fun-filled event. Mini but mighty with maximum fun is what we plan to present!”

The South Florida Mini Fair will include all of the typical, unusual “fried-everything” fair foods and beverages, a variety of local and tribute bands performing daily, shopping opportunities with vendors under a large tent, racing pigs, a giant sand sculpture, strolling entertainers, farm animals, and visiting the historic buildings of Yesteryear Village. As for rides, only kiddie rides will be offered. Other rides are being eliminated due to the large crowds that they typically attract to the grounds and no indoor activities will be held.

Safety measures will be enforced and include mandatory mask wearing by everyone, safety protocols for all vendors, and a revamped site layout to accommodate more distancing. There also will be hand sanitizing stations throughout the fairgrounds.

“After being cooped up in our homes for so long during this pandemic, we think people will be ready to come outdoors to safely enjoy a variety of fair activities,” Chouris added. “It’s possible we’ll be able to host the full-fledged fair later in the year, but for now, we’re inviting everyone to come and experience our mini fair.”

On opening day, Friday, Jan. 15, guests will be admitted free during the first hour from noon to 1 p.m. After opening day, weekday hours will be from 4-10 p.m., and on Saturday, Sunday and Martin Luther King Day, hours will be from 10 a.m.-10 p.m. Advance tickets are only being sold exclusively online via the fair’s website, www.southfloridafair.com through January 14, 2021. Admission is free for children 10 and younger, in advance and at the gate. (Last year, it was 5 and younger.) Advance tickets are $10 for 11 years and older and may be used any day.

Buying a ticket in advance allows for contactless admission and avoiding having to wait in line at the ticket booths. Guests with an advance ticket will show their barcode on their phone or present a printed copy of their purchase at the gate. Tickets at the gate will be $10, good Monday-Friday, and $15 on Saturday and Sunday (a $5 savings compared to last year).

About the South Florida Mini Fair: The South Florida Mini Fair is produced by the South Florida Fair & Palm Beach County Expositions, Inc., a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization. Located at 9067 Southern Boulevard in West Palm Beach, the 2021 South Florida Mini Fair will be held Jan. 15-31. For more information, call (561) 793-0333.

PLANS UNDERWAY FOR 2021 SOUTH FLORIDA FAIR

—Lower ticket prices and free Gold Access promotion to begin

WEST PALM BEACH, Fla. — Plans for the 2021 South Florida Fair are well under way for the 109^th edition of the fair, which will be held January 15-31, 2021 at the fairgrounds, 9067 Southern Blvd. This year’s theme is “An Earthly A-Fair.”

“Just as Disney, art events, boat shows and other entertainment venues have reopened, we also are moving forward with our guests’ safety as our number one priority,” said Vicki Chouris, the fair’s president & CEO. “Throughout our planning process, we have been and continue to be focused on not only providing top-notch entertainment as we do every year but also making sure we institute a number of protocols and changes to ensure the fairgoers’ safety.”

These safety measures include mandatory mask wearing by everyone; hand sanitizing stations throughout the fairgrounds; shorter, more frequent entertainment shows; touchless doors and an improved air-conditioning filtration system in the Expo Center; more strolling acts outdoors and fewer stage acts; mandatory safety protocols for all vendors; and a revamped site layout to accommodate more distancing between rides and other features. In addition, the popular “$2 Tuesdays” promotion has been postponed until 2022 due to the large crowds that it prompted in previous years.

Fairgoers may review the new operations and sanitation procedures on the fair’s website at www.southfloridafair.com.

As to what fairgoers can expect to see at the 2021 fair, the highlights include a sea lion show and the return of the popular racing pigs and ice skating show, which was last featured in 2018. More entertainment will be announced closer to the fair’s opening.

Simplified and lower-priced ticketing for 2021

• Advance tickets and ride vouchers are only being sold online via the fair’s website, www.southfloridafair.com from Dec. 4, 2020 through January 14, 2021.

• Buying a ticket in advance allows for contactless admission and avoiding having to wait in line at the ticket booths. Guests with an advance ticket will show their barcode on their phone at the gate.

• Admission is free for children 10 and younger, in advance and at the gate! (Last year, it was 5 and younger.) Advance tickets are $10 for 11 years and older and may be used any day.

• Tickets at the gate will be $10, good Monday-Friday, and $15 on Saturday and Sunday (a $5 savings compared to last year).

Gold Pass Promotion and the return of the PowerPass

• From Dec. 4-6 only, guests who purchase a $20 ride voucher, good Monday-Friday, will receive a free Gold Access Pass, a value up to $20, which allows fairgoers to move to the front of the line at a special checkerboard lane.

• The ever-popular PowerPass, which includes admission and unlimited rides on any one weekday, is returning and is just $25. If purchased during this same weekend of Dec. 4-6, guests also will receive a free Gold Access Pass.

• The PowerPass will continue to be sold online at www.southfloridafair.com through Jan. 14, 2021 for $25.

HISTORY ON THE ROCKS TO TAKE PLACE IN YESTERYEAR VILLAGE

South Florida Fair’s golf tournament raises money for educational scholarships

WEST PALM BEACH, Fla. — The South Florida Fair’s annual John Picano, Jr. Memorial Golf Tournament recently raised $42,064 to benefit its educational scholarship program. The tournament took place at Mayacoo Lakes Country Club.

Golfers competed for prizes and received gifts, including a pair of Footjoy golf shoes and two admission tickets to the 2021 South Florida Fair. The day ended with a buffet awards luncheon.

All proceeds benefited the South Florida Fair Scholarship Fund, which has raised more than $650,000 in college scholarships for local youth since 1981.

The golf tournament is named in memory of John Picano, Jr., who served as the South Florida Fair’s public relations director for almost two decades. Prior to his passing in 2012, he was an avid golfer and was instrumental in the growth and success of the fair’s golf tournament.

Wade Shows, Inc. was the presenting sponsor and additional sponsors were Coca-Cola, Foster & Fuchs, P.A., Laz Parking, Burns & Severson, P.A, BKS Partners and Debon Air Mechanical.

The South Florida Fair is produced by the South Florida Fair & Palm Beach County Expositions, Inc., a 501(c)3 nonprofit organization, and has a longstanding tradition of raising funds for educational and charitable purposes.

WEST PALM BEACH, Fla. — At a time when many people are spending more times in their homes due to the pandemic, the South Florida Fair is offering them a one-stop shopping experience by producing a Home Improvement & More Show, Friday, Oct. 23 through Sunday, Oct. 25. Hours are from 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Friday and Saturday and 10 a.m.-4 p.m. on Sunday. Admission and parking are free.

There will be more than 50 vendors representing various areas including household items, kitchen, bath, water filtration, patios, windows, doors, landscape, security, remolding, hot tubs, roofing, gazebos, art, jewelry, window treatment, decks and patios, screens, tree services, home fitness, marble and granite, and automotive.

Some of the businesses will be offering specials only available at the show.

Fair organizers decided to produce the show after recognizing the high demand for home improvement, renovation, products and services.

“Given what we’ve been experiencing since March with this pandemic, there has never been such a high demand for at-home enhancements in kitchens and baths, lawn and landscape, décor and home office ideas,” said Vicki Chouris, president & CEO of the South Florida Fair & Palm Beach County Expositions.

Exhibitor and vendor applications are still being accepted from businesses that specialize in residential interior and exterior renovations, home products and services, security, insurance, or financial assistance. For applications or space availability, email Tim Pachis, tim@southfloridafair.com, or call (561) 795-6446.

Masks are required for entry and guests will be asked to social distance.

­­­­­About South Florida Fair & Palm Beach County Expositions, Inc.: The South Florida Fair & Palm Beach County Expositions, Inc., a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, produces multiple events throughout the year. Located at 9067 Southern Boulevard in West Palm Beach, its largest event is the 2021 South Florida Fair, which will be held Jan. 15 – 31, 2021. For more information, call (561) 793-0333 or visit the website, http://www.southfloridafair.com.

WEST PALM BEACH, Fla. — The organizers of Spookyville, which takes place annually at Yesteryear Village at the South Florida Fairgrounds, have created a way for the little ones to still get their Halloween fill in a safe and fun way.

Because of COVID-19 concerns, Spookyville will be handled as a drive-through event from 6 to 9 p.m. Sunday through Thursday and 6 to 10 p.m. Friday and Saturday, October 23-31, at the South Florida Fairgrounds, 9067 Southern Blvd.

Known as one of the best family-friendly Halloween events in the Palm Beaches, the event will operate much like the Fair Eats Drive Thru events that the fair offered in July and September. The difference is that this drive-thru will come alive with sets, actors, not-so-spooky décor, and costumed volunteers who will be offering treats and big smiles to the children as they pass by in their cars.

“We are encouraging the kids to still dress up in their favorite Halloween costumes for a safe and socially distanced drive through while trick or treating,” said Lorie Stinson, the fair’s exhibits and special events manager.

The cost is $25 per vehicle. All passengers must be safely wearing seat belts. Children will be able to enjoy a slow cruise as they enjoy friendly faces, familiar songs, Halloween vignettes, actors, dancers, and lots of candy, while staying in the safety of their car the entire time.

“Your young ones will be leaving safely and soundly with smiling faces and a trick-or-treat bag,” added Stinson.

After the Spookyville ride, families may take advantage of Fair Eats & Treats, too, which will feature fair food and sweets available for purchase.

Spookyville sponsors include Coca-Cola, Storm Tight Windows, Florida Dairy Farmers and Baptist Health South Florida.

For more information, call Lorie Stinson at (561) 790-5245 or visit the fair’s website, www.southfloridafair.com.

South Florida Fair food lovers can get their fix early this year

WEST PALM BEACH, Fla. – One of the top reasons people attend the annual South Florida Fair is to enjoy a plethora foods that they can only get at the fair in January. That’s about to change with an up and coming first-time event — “Fair Eats Drive-Thru at the South Florida Fairgrounds.” Fair food lovers will be able to get their fix six months early during this event from 11 a.m.-8 p.m., Friday, July 3, through Sunday, July 5, at the fairgrounds, 9067 Southern Blvd.

The event will be strictly drive-through. Guests will enter through Gate 8 and there will be a menu available with servers coming to their cars to take their orders. They will follow a vehicle queue line and get their orders filled. People must remain in their vehicles to maintain social distancing.

The menu will include fried Oreos, fried snickers, candy apples, cotton candy, three flavors of funnel cake, turkey legs, corn dogs, chicken tenders and fries, roasted corn elephant ears, and a bucket of fries (menu subject to change). Beverages will include bottled drinks and a lemonade shakeup. Prices range from $2-$11 with most items averaging around $6.

“We wanted to bring something positive to the fairgrounds to celebrate the 4^th of July holiday and give the community something fun to do while still aligning with the pandemic guidelines,” said Fair President & CEO Vicki Chouris. “It has definitely put a smile on people’s faces and our food vendors could not be more thankful for the support.”

For more information, visit www.southfloridafair.com.

The South Florida Fair is produced by the South Florida Fair & Palm Beach County Expositions, Inc., a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization. Located at 9067 Southern Boulevard in West Palm Beach, the 2021 South Florida Fair will kick off with its Ride-A-Thon at 5 p.m. on Jan. 14 and the full fair will be held Jan. 15 – 31, 2021. For more information, call (561) 793-0333 or visit the website, http://www.southfloridafair.com.

WEST PALM BEACH, Fla. — Wade Shows, Inc. returns to the South Florida Fair’s midway this year with more than 200 rides, games and attractions. This includes six new rides and the return of one of the fair’s most popular rides, as follows:

• Axis – This sizzler of a ride sparkles with more than 1,000 dazzling lights on the sweeps and cars, making it one of the brightest attractions on the midway. The arms spin around and cars swing as families enjoy this classic thrill ride.

• Observation Tower – Like a carousel in the sky, this ride takes guests high above the midway for a slow-turning look high above the midway. It’s suitable for guests of all ages.

• Down Draft – Guests can catch some air above the midway, swoop down and shoot back up again! They’ll feel the forces as they swing around and let their feet dangle above the ground.

• Starship 4000 – One of the most popular rides on the midway, the Starship 4000 is the latest version of a classic favorite thrill ride. The ride is completely enclosed with 48 padded panels lining the inside wall. Riders lean against these panels, which are angled back. As the ride rotates, centrifugal force is exerted against the pads by the rider and removes the rider from the floor due to the slant.

• Friendly Wheel – This ride takes guests for a gentle spin high above the midway, as it dazzles with thousands of sparkling lights and the best bird's eye view of the fair.

• Seven Seas – Guests can sail on the Seven Seas for a family-friendly boat ride that’ll leave their heads spinning.

And the return of one of the South Florida Fair’s most popular rides, the RC 48. A “speed coaster,” the RC-48 is the second largest portable roller coaster in the U.S. The ride is transported on seven trailers, has two large trains for riders, and makes a massive appearance on the midway.