The air in Tillamook County is abuzz with anticipation – and it’s not just the summer breeze! With the Tillamook County Fair just days away, a sense of excitement is building. As Teri Fladstol explains, “the Fair brings a sense of buzz and gives people a sense of belonging.” A feeling of connection is important to our collective wellness.
One of the most heartwarming aspects of the Tillamook County Fair is the opportunity for everyone to showcase their passions and talents by entering an exhibit. Whether you’re a seasoned artisan or an enthusiast just starting out, there truly is something for everyone across seven diverse departments: Art, Crafts & Hobbies, Culinary, Floral, Land Products, Photography, and Textile. Imagine the joy of seeing your knitted masterpiece, prize-winning zucchini, or breathtaking photograph admired by the community!
Stepping into the exhibit halls is like entering a vibrant community hub. It’s a place where you inevitably bump into like-minded individuals, sparking conversations about shared interests and opening doors to new friendships. The department superintendents, always on hand, are fantastic resources and enthusiastic advocates for their areas of expertise. You might even stumble upon captivating demonstrations – a quilter stitching a new design, a knitter creating intricate patterns – providing perfect opportunities to engage, learn, and connect. This engagement, the shared conversation, and the sense of commonality are all powerful ingredients for boosting our mental and emotional well-being.
The Fair embraces all ages, from the youngest “Fair Buddies” (3-5 years old who may get help from mom, dad, grandma or a loving neighbor) all the way through to adult exhibitors. What makes the Tillamook County Fair particularly special is its use of the Danish Merit System. This unique judging approach focuses on meeting a standard rather than directly competing against others. It’s about personal achievement and celebrating the quality of your work, removing the pressure of “beating someone out.” While the rewards are minimal, the sheer joy of winning a ribbon and having your work admired and valued by the community is immeasurable. It’s a testament to the power of positive recognition and shared appreciation – core elements of a healthy, supportive community.
So, as the Fair approaches, consider diving in! Whether you’re exhibiting a lifelong passion or a newly discovered hobby, the Tillamook County Fair offers a unique opportunity to connect, create, and find your place within this wonderful community.
To make sure your amazing creations are part of the Tillamook County Fair, all exhibitors must register for an online account and obtain a unique exhibitor ID at https://tillamook.fairwire.com. If you need any assistance with your registration, there will be volunteers available to help during exhibit drop-off times. For non-perishable items (Arts, Crafts & Hobbies, Photography, and Textile), you can drop off your entries on August 2nd from 10:00 am – 2:00 pm, August 3rd from 1:00 pm – 3:00 pm, August 4th from 10:00 am – 8:00 pm, or August 5th from 8:00 am – 10:00 am. Perishable exhibits, including Culinary, Floral, and Land Products, should be dropped off on August 4th between 10:00 am and 8:00 pm, or August 5th between 8:00 am and 10:00 am.
For more information and to enter a project, visit: https://www.tillamookfair.com/p/fair-info/show–tell