To document and display past and current county history through photographs at the Carver County Fair. Selected photographs will represent a cross-section of topics, people, and places in Carver County.
Entertainment for the 2023 fair will (for the 42nd year) include The Johnny Holm Band. This is a Minnesota band and Johnny Holm actually lives in Carver County. This is one of the most well attended events we have during the Carver County Fair.
Our legacy project will be free stage presentations throughout the fair August 2-6, 2023. We will have a mixture of Minnesota bands and youth education with a raptor presentation.
We will be applying these funds toward two German heritage musical bands (Chuck Thiel and the Jolly Ramblers and The Wendinger Brothers) and also a 50's & 60's Rock n' Roll show band (Butch Automatic & The Four Speeds featuring The Bingo's).
To create and promote a fun, historical walking tour of the fairgrounds. Visitors will be given a map of the grounds, with sign locations noted. Maps and signs will be written in English and Spanish. In addition to finding the signs and reading about history, visitors can call a phone number listed on the map, enter a location number, and learn more about that particular location.
To recognize outstanding senior citizens in Sibley County. Attendees can listen to a polka band and watch the awards ceremony. Funds will also be used to upgrade stage lighting and install a sound system to enhance the programming.
Additionally, funds will enhance the fine arts exhibits in the Horticulture Building. Upgraded lighting and new display cases will improve the visibility of photography, quilt and needlework entries.
To construct an Arts and Heritage Center on the fair grounds. The Sibley County Fair will erect an Arts and Heritage Center with a 40 foot stage and two dressing rooms. The building will primarily serve as an educational arts and culture center for the fair. The fair will present acts on the stage from six to eight hours per day during the fair.
To rehabilitate the original horse racing judges’ stand. The stand is the last relic of the 143 year old fair grounds and dates back to the late 1800’s. The stand is comprised of a first story entry and refreshment area, and an upper section for judging the races. It’s 360 degree observation of the track was made possible by its hexagon shape and large doors that could be lifted when needed on each side. This is the first stage of the multi-year restoration of this prized building and is an important part of the plan to initiate a daily educational program at the fair.
