The annual Webster County Fair is a key element in the life of the community, even for those people who don’t live on farms.

Every year hundreds of people converge on the fairgrounds south of Fort Dodge to see the animals raised by 4-H members, admire the various projects on display and enjoy grandstand shows. Plus there are traditional favorites like the watermelon and sweet corn feeds.

Last year. the pandemic eliminated the traditional fair, reducing it to a quick livestock show by 4-H and FFA youths.

Thanks to increasing vaccinations and declining coronavirus cases, the fair is planned to return full force July 14-18.

But after COVID-19 wiped out all of the usual fundraising opportunities for the fair last year, the event’s planning committee is looking for some help in the way of sponsorships. Those sponsorships will ensure that the fair, with the exception of the grandstand shows, remains a free event.

There are multiple sponsorship levels, starting at $100. Sponsors will receive some recognition, with Champion Sponsors getting their name and logo on signs and the fair’s web site and social media feeds.

Donations of time are welcome also. There is plenty of work to do before, during and after the fair. The folks organizing the fair would like to have some help with that.

We urge individuals and businesses to do what they can to keep the tradition of a free Webster County Fair alive. Consider donating money in the form of a sponsorship. Also consider volunteering some time at the fairgrounds. Or do both.

Any donations of time and money will keep the cherished tradition of the Webster County Fair alive and well.