Story Category: The Bay Net Exclusives »

The St. Mary’s County Fair Board got lucky. Or more specifically the people of St. Mary’s County got lucky. Four straight picture perfect days led to a highly successful 66th Annual St. Mary’s County Fair.

Standing in the middle of the fairgrounds on Friday with the carnival rides as a backdrop long-time St. Mary’s County Fair Board President John Richards was asked what fair had the highest attendance. He noted that about a half-dozen years ago they had an exceptional crowd because of the weather. He said, though, “As long as people are enjoying themselves, that’s all that matters.” He quickly added, “I don’t think we could handle any more.” That pretty much sums up the four days with the lots brimming with cars and the fairgrounds overflowing with visitors and participants. On Sunday Richards was all smiles as he sat for a break. “Everything is downhill from here,” he said.

Saturday was Parade Day with a morning parade featuring high school bands, fire and rescue apparatus, politicians walking and riding, and many community organizations and commercial entities.

Sunday was Gospel Music Day with performances through the day. A special ceremony introduced once again the Queen of Tolerance and her court. Sunday also featured a horse show and many 4-H events.

The attached slideshow only begins to capture the sights of the fair. Everyone who went brought back with them their own vivid memories, whether or not they captured some of the sights on their cameras or cell phones.

The Bay Net story and slideshow on Thursday night events including the crowning of the Queen of Tolerance can be seen at: http://www.thebaynet.com/news/index.cfm/fa/viewstory/story_ID/29561

The Bay Net story and slide show on Friday’s School Day can be viewed at: http://www.thebaynet.com/news/index.cfm/fa/viewstory/story_ID/29570