Deadline to apply for Erie County Fair Camp is May 6

In 2009, the Erie County Agricultural Society inaugurated its award-winning Erie County Fair Camp program with the goal to stimulate an interest in agriculture, a passion for learning and foster a love of the Erie County Fair. In the 11 years of its existence, more than 350 children and their parents have slept overnight in a barn, assisted with farm chores, showed animals in a livestock competition and worked inside a fair food concession.

Once again in 2019, the Erie County Agricultural Society will offer this agricultural and county fair immersion experience for children ages 8-10 and an accompanying parent. Under the supervision of trained camp counselors, children will gain first-hand experience in raising, caring for and showing livestock as well as receive a “behind the scenes” look at the County Fair.

The camp hosts two sessions, one each week of the fair (Friday-Sunday, Aug. 9-11 and 16-18). Campers and a parent/guardian live on the fairgrounds during the session in a “hay loft” located inside the Agriculture Discovery Center. The number of participants for each session is limited to six children and an accompanying parent. Organizers said small groups ensure each child gets a unique experience and personal attention.

Parents of children interested in participating are required to apply no later than May 6. Applications are available online at https://www.ecfair.org/p/other/faircamp. There is no cost to attend Fair Camp, including meals and entertainment, as the program is underwritten by the Erie County Agricultural Society. Questions may be directed to the fair’s agriculture education office at 716-649-3900, ext. 6499, or by emailing Education Coordinator Amber Klein at [email protected].

The Erie County Agricultural Society is a private not-for-profit membership organization. Established in 1819, the society is the oldest civic organization in Western New York. The mission of the ECAS, sponsors of the Erie County Fair, is to preserve and enhance, by educational endeavors, the agricultural and historical legacy of New York.

The 180th Erie County Fair will be held Aug. 7-18. Visit www.ECFair.org.