Feel the ♥

Happy JUNE!

Can you believe it?! The fair is fast approaching, and I’m actually getting EXCITED! We have a lot of fun stuff coming to the fair, and I just LOVE our theme– it makes a lot of the stuff I have to do more fun. Designing the t-shirts? FUN! Can’t wait to show you guys! Designing ads for ValPak? FUN!

What has been even more fun is having people throughout the community already know what the theme is! I think that “Viva Las Davis” has caught on, just like I hoped it would! In the past weeks I have been introducing myself to new people, and after telling them that I am the Davis County Fair Coordinator, I have had several people say, “Oh! Viva Las Davis! I love it!” or “That is so cute!”  They know what the theme is without me having to tell them. How cool is that?! Last year I had to tell people, then felt like I had to explain it, “You know, ‘mane’ like a lion, but we’re not having lions anymore… just tigers… are you with PETA??” Last year was tons of fun. :)

So, I just wanted to say THANK YOU for catching onto my vision! I think that VIVA LAS DAVIS is something that we, as Davis County-ians, can all rally behind, and so far a lot of people have. I am really feeling the love!

Stay tuned for more juicy news!

Much Love,

M

VIVA LAS DAVIS!

One week ago, I was able to present the 2011 Davis County Fair theme to the Davis County Commission. We had music, we had beach balls– it was a blast! And luckily, everyone enjoyed our presentation. :)

The 2011 theme is: VIVA LAS DAVIS!

I had to fight hard for this one, guys, and I’m glad I did! I really think that this theme shows what the fair is all about– celebrating Davis County. Through the fair, we are able to celebrate all of the great things about Davis County: great people, great food, great talent, and great fun!

My goal is for the community of Davis County to feel like they are a part of the Davis County Fair. We have A LOT of great attractions coming to the fair. To name a few:

IGX- Interactive Gaming Experience– come play some of the latest video games on the newest video game consoles! Tournaments and prizes given out every day!

The West Texas Rattlesnake Show– Trust me, I hate snakes, and I am SO EXCITED for this show! Rattlesnake Dave is a hoot, and this show is sure to have you coming back for more!

Rattlesnake Dave of the West Texas Rattlesnake Show.

Jason Hewlett– Entertainer extraordinaire! Hewlett actually got his start in Las Vegas, giving a nice shout out to our theme. His impressions are impeccable, his singing is sensational… it’s gonna be a blast!

Hewlett channeling Sir Elton John.

Outdoor Movie– WHAT?! An outdoor movie at the Davis County Fair? YES! And you get to be a part of choosing what movie it is! Make sure to follow us on Facebook to find out how you can cast your vote!

What's it gonna be?!

American Diving Dogs– brought to you by the people who brought us “Splash Dogs” last year. The Diving Dogs are SURE to please, and don’t forget to bring your own pooch!

The biggest question I have been asked is… “WILL ELVIS BE THERE?!”

Only time will tell… ;)

Much Love, Fair Fans!

M

Social Butterfly

Here I sit in my hotel room in Indianapolis for the IAFE Spring Seminar on Marketing and Sponsorship. I’m so lucky to be able to participate in these events and be a part of this organization!

Inadvertently, we have talked A LOT about social media. It is such a powerful tool– such a great way to get your voice heard and start a discussion. That is why I try to do with the Davis County Fair. I want Davis County-ians and fair guests to hear my voice through all the promotions and announcements. I want them to connect with a little piece of me, because I put A LOT of me into the fair.

I am getting UBER excited for the 2011 fair– I can’t wait for you to hear the theme! I am hoping it is something we can all rally behind, and something to bring Davis County together. We are such a unique county! Nestled in between two big dogs of Utah (Weber & Salt Lake). We still have the small town charm, with an urban twist. Business is booming not only in Utah, but also in Davis County. People who move away, always seem to move back.

I am not a native Utahan, but I am proud to live in Davis County, and even prouder to support the community with my specific job. I hope that through this conference, along with other trainings, that I can make the fair better, and spread the word!

For all those social media doubters out there, check out this video:

I can’t wait to show this to some people in my office! Powerful stats– and I even saw that they have a Part 2, which I’ll save for another post. :)

Today is a great day for many reasons, but the national ones include MARDI GRAS and INTERNATIONAL WOMEN’S DAY (100th Anniversary!). So have a purple cupcake, throw beads at someone, give your mom a hug, or sing your favorite girl power song (even if you’re a guy!).

Beadilicious :)

Stay tuned for more fair details– they are getting finalized every day! Can’t wait for the BIG REVEAL!!!

Much Love,

Megan

Fair Coordinator

Rockin’ & Rollin’

Happy Superbowl Weekend!!!

I get asked all the time… “What do you do all year?” Well, here’s a little post to show what has been keeping us busy!

Last weekend we went to the annual meeting for the Utah Association of Fairs and Events (UAFE). This is always a good time to catch up with friends and get some GREAT ideas. I was able to host a roundtable discussion on “pre-fair gimmicks” and now I really know what “gimmick” means! My favorite little nugget is not really fair related, but I shared it with the people who attended my session. I love the band Queen, and Freddie Mercury’s gimmick was always performing with a microphone stand that had no bottom. This all started when the bottom of the stand broke off during one of his performances, and he carried the tradition on. When asked why he did this, he famously replied:

“Everyone has to have a gimmick, dear.”

At UAFE, they give away recognition awards and we won TWO! We received the award for:

BEST FAIR PROGRAM COVER/POSTER

BEST FAIR PHOTO

I was really excited that other people love this picture as much as I do! And a I special shout-out goes to Mighty Clever, our advertising/graphics guys! They are GREAT! So let’s just say, the Davis County Fair is “award winning!” Supa fly!

In other news… we have applications out! We are looking for great FOOD VENDORS and fabulous ENTERTAINERS! We are really looking to support local businesses, local musicians, and local fun-lovers. We love Davis County and we will be celebrating it big time this year! Go to www.davisfair.com for these applications! We’ve already gotten some YUMMY food vendor applications. I’m already dreaming of polynesian chicken and funnel cakes!

A few fun announcements have been made about some of our big entertainment pieces, and there is more to come!

IGX- Video Game Tent: Standard-Examiner

The West Texas Rattlesnake Show: Davis County Clipper & Standard-Examiner

The hardest part this year has been planning the marketing, but “WORD OF MOUTH” has always been our #1 marketing tool, and that’s because of you! Thanks for being fair fans and for spreading the word!

Stay tuned for more fun!!!

New Year, New Fair!

Hello Friends!

Well, the fair planning has gone into HIGH GEAR! We’ve got a lot of changes coming your way, and I think they all will be great. I’m working on stuff way early, as to avoid the most stressful day of my life that occurred last year. :)

That being said, planning is pretty stressful itself. I sit at my desk, and close my eyes, hold my head in my hands, and squeeze out great ideas (hopefully!). I want to plan a fair that EVERYONE will love, which will, of course,  never happen. So, instead I aim  for a high percentage. But an eternal question still pervades me– I always ask for input, but how much do I want? I want to SURPRISE Davis County! I want to wow them! But at the same time, I do not want a dud on my hands. The only way to really know what someone wants is to ask… or just listen.

My current challenge is finding a great musical act for the fair. Summer in Utah brings concert fever. All of the big names come to town, in fact, Sugarland will be at the USANA Amphitheater on the last day of our fair. I can’t compete with that, but I do my best to bring in fun music and different shows.

Every year, there is always the request for a “Big Name.” What’s a girl to do?? Rest assured, Davis County, I’m finding something fabulous for you! It may not be Tim McGraw or Boyz II Men (♥), but it will hopefully be someone unique, local, and bangin’. Any requests?? Send them my way… PLEASE!!!

Here’s a few names that are on the table:

• Nathan Osmond
• Ryan Shupe and the Rubberband
• Joey & Rory
• Thompson Square
• Benton Paul
• Allred
• Street Corner Symphony (from the “Sing-Off”…♥)
• Alex Boye
• All-4-One
• Jason Hewlett

What do you think??? A few of these I have not even contacted yet, so I hope they don’t see this. :) Let me know who you love, or if you have a genius idea!

And if you are a Davis County LOVER and you are chock full of TALENT, we definitely want YOU at the Davis County Fair!

We want YOU to perform at the fair!

Go to http://www.davisfair.com and fill out an “ENTERTAINMENT APPLICATION.” This year is ALL ABOUT Davis County and it will be a celebration of the wonderful people who live here.

So, spread the word and spread the love! And PLEASE leave a comment of who you want to see at the fair!

Much Love,

M

Mele Kalikamaka!

We want to wish all of you fair-goers a  happy holiday season! We have had a great year, and we owe that to all of you! Thanks for your constant support of the fair and for your love for the Davis County community. We are working hard on the 2011 Fair, and it is going to be AWESOME!

Because we are experts on FUN, we wanted to pass on some fun, holiday tips:

1. Music: No home is complete without the Jackson 5 Christmas Album. It is a classic, and we’ll bring lots of cheer and dance grooves to your home!

Keepin' it real, Christmas style.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

2. Movies: What are the holidays without a few Muppets? If you haven’t seen it already, rent or purchase, “It’s a Very Merry Muppet Christmas Movie!” It’s the Muppet version of “It’s a Wonderful Life” and it is a great addition to any holiday collection

I ♥ Kermit the Frog.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

3. Food: A friend recently sent this link to me, and I would be ungrateful if I didn’t share! Check out lots of yummy and unique hot chocolate recipes– perfect for these chilly days! I’ve got my eye on that Nutella recipe!

http://www.ourbestbites.com/2010/12/gourmet-hot-chocolate.html

HoCho Goodness.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Have a great holiday season! We’ll see you next year!

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

~The Davis County Fair Gang

Vegas, Baby!

Every year, the International Association of Fairs and Expos (IAFE) hosts their annual convention at the Paris Hotel and Casino in Las Vegas, Nevada. Let’s just say that all of that spells out F-U-N!

Keepin it real at the Bellagio.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 
I really like attending IAFE because of the great workshops and round table topics. We attended seminars on Social Marketing, Agriculture Education, Grants, & more. It was GREAT!

Everyone says that IAFE is a great place to come and copy the great ideas of other fairs, and they are so right! I really think it’s funny how EVERYONE says this, even the Chair of the IAFE Board. We are a network of fairs, not competing businesses. We really do grow and learn from each other, and the Davis County Fair has really benefited from IAFE in the past! IAFE brought us the fabulous Kachunga and the Alligator Show, and helped me organize our new volunteer program for the 2010 fair!

This year, I feel like we got some really great ideas, and I can’t wait to share them with you! For now, we have to keep it on lock, until I have all the kinks worked out. But for now, I’ve joined HootSuite, I’ve got lots of phone calls to make, and fun stuff to add to my gigantic TO-DO LIST!

A great idea for our photography entries display.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 
Also, remember that the fair is for YOU! For the friends, families, kids, adults, teens… everyone in Davis County! If you have special requests or feedback, please send them our way. We want you to love coming to the Davis County Fair, and hope you mark it in your calendar every year.

Click on this link to see some FAB pictures from IAFE: http://www.facebook.com/album.php?aid=259036&id=83380829762

Some fun sightings: clown in the bathroom, clown on the escalator, Skinny Elvis and Chubbier Elvis hanging together, a medieval knight… quite a trip!

And we are WINNERS! Here are the communication awards we won:

1st Place: Outdoor Promotional Advertising

2nd Place: Fair Website

3rd Place: Multi-page Publication, Entertainment Guide

We won a plaque!

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Here’s to making the fair better, and lifelong learning! Until next year, IAFE!

♥,

Megan, Fair Coordinator

1,000 Words…

Well, here at the Legacy Events Center, we think the fair was a smashing success! We had got some great feedback from our surveys and we’re ready to make 2011 even better! You can go to our Facebook page to see all of the fair photos, but here are a few fair faces that really make me giggle. Enjoy!

Cupcake Face.

Bird Face.

Tiger Face.

Pie Face.

SURVEY & WIN!

We are conducting a survey of the 2010 Davis County Fair!

Take the survey at:

http://www.surveymonkey.com/s/FYDXH5L

and be entered to win some great prizes!

We will be randomly giving away:

10 $10 gift certificates to Chevron!

10 $25.00 gift certificates to Boondock's Fun Center!

5 $20.00 gift certificates to Wiseguys Comedy Cafe!

5 $10.00 gift certificates to Marie Callender's!

10 $5.00 gift certificates to Sugar Daisy Bakery!

Fairin’ It Up!

Here’s an update on all the happenings of the past few days!

Wednesday was day #1 of the fair! We started bright and early with Fox13 and showcased some fun stuff, including lawn mower racing, tigers, cupcakes, and more! All day, the kid’s tents were PACKED and the carnival was HOPPIN’! I almost had a game show disaster, when I couldn’t find the pieces to my game board for “The Big Deal: Take It or Leave It.” But Miss Davis County and her attendants came to my rescue and helped Velcro and tape things together. :) And 2 people won some cold hard cash!

The Demolition Derby was SOLD OUT and full of awesomeness. We tried something new and did something called “The BIG Drop” and dropped some items to help promote Litter Hurts. We also had Davis Behavioral Health provide a brain car that got SMASHED by things like alcohol, whiskey, booze, etc. It got rammed into the berm right into section M. Those people definitely had a front row to some excitement!

Yesterday, we were hit with some torrential downpours. Everyone was huddling under tents and my golf cart (and me) got soaked! But luckily, everything cleared up and it was a pretty warm day! Last night was packed with fun: the Fat Boy All-You-Can-Eat Ice Cream Tent, Dueling Pianos, and Family Face-Off presented by Boondock’s Fun Center. The Smith Family won a $250.00 gift certificate to Boondocks! It was very fun to watch, and the audience has a chance to win prizes, too! So come and check it out on Saturday!

Pro-Tour FMX was AWESOME! The crowd loved it and you could tell that the motorcycle riders love what they do. Everyone was happy, got autographs, and really enjoyed a great show!

And bright and early this morning we were on ABC4 Good Things Utah and we got to show off Splash Dogs and Welch’s Tiger Experience presented by Yes Utah. The baby tigers were sleepy but SO CUTE! And the dogs jumped into the water with no hesitation. Hilarious!

Don’t forget to enter our photo contest!!!

Have you guys made it out to the fair yet? What is your favorite stuff so far??

Keeping it real- fair style,

Megan