The Power of Exhibitions and Fairs to educate, promote economic development and enhance civic pride.

CELEBRATIONS.

Every city and town has something to celebrate: an historic event, the birthday of a famous resident or a re-occurring natural phenomena. If there is not an indigenous celebratory event or person, grab on from the regional, state or national scene. Find something to celebrate in a public way. State fairs serve this purpose, especially in places with strong agricultural interests. Annual sporting events like the Daytona 500, a football bowl game or a national holiday like Memorial Day fill the bill; although local, authentic events are more interesting.

MAKE IT A BIG DEAL.

The point is to find an event that draws the interest and participation of the town’s families. Special groups may be the leaders and organizers, such as a Greek Festival that draws people from the entire town; the food and dancing are usually great. Parks, town squares and community centers provide the venues.