HELPING HANDS : Several hundred volunteers ( mostly Kiwanis members and their spouses , but also partners from other volunteer groups ) work during the 10 days of the fair and total 5,500 volunteer hours .
FUN & GAMES : The fair brings in approximately four to five shows each year , and the carnival provides approximately 40 rides and 20 games .
FOUNDING THE FAIR :
In 1954 , the Kiwanis Club of Montgomery founded the South Alabama Fair Association . James G . Pruett , Ben Wilbanks and William Lynn borrowed $ 500 from the Kiwanis Club treasury to start the fair . As the fair grew , the name changed to South Alabama State Fair in 1969 . In 1997 , in recognition of the fact that many fair participants visit from out-of-state , the name became Alabama National Fair and Agricultural Exposition .
ANIMAL HOUSE :
In 2022 , for the fair ’ s beef cattle , dairy cattle , goats , sheep and swine shows , there were 773 exhibitors who showed 985 different animals .
WHAT IS THE MAIN PURPOSE OF THE FAIR ?
To promote Alabama industry , agriculture and livestock ; to encourage artistic and cultural pursuits among citizens of all ages ; and to give everyone an opportunity to have a great time at the fair . The festive October celebration returns year-round benefits to the tri-county communities . The fair ’ s revenues are granted to area youth , charity and educational projects through the Kiwanis Club Foundation .
WHAT MAKES THE FAIR DIFFERENT FROM OTHER FAIRS ?
It is privately owned . Most fairs of our size are owned and operated by the state government in which they reside .
CentrAL Inc ! 63