Deadline For Putnam Fairest Of Fair Approaching Friday

Applications for Putnam County’s Fairest of the Fair must be submitted before Friday morning.

The competition’s main event will be hosted on Sunday, July 23, at the Putnam County Fairgrounds. It scores contestants on appearances, outfits, and responses to cues from judges.

Organizer Shannon Hayes said despite what some think, this competition is not just a beauty pageant.

“It really is so much more than a pretty face and a pretty dress for one night,” Hayes said, “I actually know that it is more because these girls are some of the most driven, and some of the most accomplished, at their age level.

Along with the stage competition, contestants are involved in the production of the event, and there are other aspects taken into consideration. Each contestant will decorate a shoe, one of the traditions of the event. In addition, the contestants have an interview with the judges, and contribute to the program, among other things.

“What judges look for, aside from confidence, is dedication and how hard they’ve worked,” Hayes said.

Hayes said that, since the crowning of the first Fair Queen in 1956, this competition has been ingrained in the culture of the fair. She and many others believe it is a very positive experience for the contestants.

“They really enjoy it,” Hayes said, “it builds character, it builds community interactions for the girls, and it’s just a really neat aspect of our fair.”

Applications are due at 1151 South Willow Ave, Suite A, by July 14 at 11 AM.