Clay County Fair Charitable Trust Invites Community to Support a “Blue-Ribbon Future” This GivingTuesday

SPENCER, Iowa — As communities across the country unite in generosity for GivingTuesday on December 2, the Clay County Fair Charitable Trust is inviting fair supporters, past and present, to help ensure that “The World’s Greatest County Fair” continues to thrive for generations to come.

Established in 1993, the Clay County Fair Charitable Trust is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit dedicated to preserving the Fair’s rich heritage, supporting facility improvements, and expanding year-round opportunities for fairgoers. GivingTuesday provides a powerful moment to highlight the Trust’s mission and offer donors a variety of meaningful ways to make an impact.

“The Fair is a place where memories are made, traditions are passed on, and families gather year after year,” said Jason Brockshus, CEO of the Clay County Fair. “The Charitable Trust helps ensure we can keep that magic alive, not just for today’s fairgoers, but for those who will walk through our gates decades from now.”

Donors are encouraged to participate in one of the Trust’s featured giving initiatives:

Plant the Future – Tree Initiative

Following the recent loss of trees across the Fairgrounds, the Trust is working with Del’s Garden Center on a strategic 10-year planting plan to restore shade, beauty, and environmental health. A $2,000 contribution provides one tree and long-term maintenance, along with donor recognition on the “Plant the Future” wall.

Light the Plaza – Solar Bollard Program

Help brighten Centennial Plaza with a solar-powered light that will shine for thousands of fairgoers each year. A $2,000 contribution includes a personalized plaque on your bollard. Orders must be placed by June 1 for installation for the 2026 Fair.

Memory Wall – 6″ x 9″ Quilt Block

Celebrate a fair memory or honor a loved one with a personalized aluminum quilt block on the Creative Living Center’s south wall. A $250 contribution includes a custom inscription. Orders must be placed by June 1 for installation for the 2026 Fair.

Pen by Pen – Livestock Pen Replacement Program

Support livestock exhibitors by helping replace original 1960s-era pens in the Livestock Pavilion. A $600 donation provides one new pen and includes recognition on a donor plaque inside the Livestock Pavilion. Orders must be placed by June 1 for installation for the 2026 Fair.

Have a Seat – Picnic Table & Bench Program

Provide much-needed seating for fairgoers during the 9-day Fair through a gift that is both functional and meaningful. A $2,000 picnic table or $1,000 bench includes a personalized commemorative plaque and placement at the 2026 Fair if ordered by June 1.

“Every donation, whether it’s a tree, a pen, or a bench, becomes part of the Fair’s story and helps keep our grounds strong and welcoming,” said Brent Burns, Partnerships Director.

How to Give

Donors can make a secure online contribution or mail a check to:

Clay County Fair Charitable Trust

PO Box 527

Spencer, IA 51301

For questions or additional information about the Charitable Trust or GivingTuesday opportunities, contact brent@claycountyfair.com.

About the Clay County Fair Charitable Trust

Founded in 1993, the Clay County Fair Charitable Trust is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization dedicated to ensuring a blue-ribbon future for “The World’s Greatest County Fair.” The Trust supports capital improvements, facility upgrades, preservation efforts, and donor-driven programs that enhance both fair-time and year-round use of the Fairgrounds.

About The Clay County Fair & Events Center

Rooted in Tradition, the Clay County Fair and Events Center is a year-round facility that annually hosts more than 300 events, including its signature event, the Clay County Fair. Known as “The World’s Greatest County Fair” since 1917, the Clay County Fair attracts more than 300,000 guests each September for nine days of world-class entertainment, competition, food, fun, and the largest farm machinery show at any fair in the United States. Additional information can be found at www.claycountyfair.com.

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