St. Mary’s County Fair Announces 2026 Catalog Cover Contest Winner

LEONARDTOWN, Md. — The St. Mary’s County Fair Association has announced the winner of its 2026 Fair Catalog Guide Book Cover Contest, selecting a detailed original design created by St. Michael’s Catholic School student Iris Magali Amaya Campos.

The winning artwork, created by the graduating eighth-grade student, will serve as the cover of the 2026 St. Mary’s County Fair Catalog Guide Book, which is scheduled to be published by The County Times in mid-August. The annual guidebook helps residents prepare exhibit entries and plan their visits ahead of the St. Mary’s County Fair, which will take place Sept. 24-27, 2026.

Iris’ illustration highlights many of the traditions and attractions that have become synonymous with the county fair, including agriculture, livestock, equestrian activities, local seafood, carnival rides and community exhibits. Fair officials said the artwork will be adapted not only for the guidebook cover but also for the official fair T-shirt and the popular roadside fair sign displayed throughout the community.

As part of her award, Iris will receive a $200 prize and will be formally recognized during the Queen of Tolerance Program on opening night of the fair. She will also have the opportunity to help paint the roadside fair sign under the guidance of local artist Mary Beth Drury.

The contest was promoted through social media earlier this spring and invited students in grades 5 through 12 from across St. Mary’s County to submit original designs celebrating the fair and local community.

According to fair organizers, judges were impressed by the creativity and quality of the submissions received. Several entries will be featured in the printed fair catalog and displayed in the Education Building during the fair, giving visitors an opportunity to view the artwork created by local students.

The St. Mary’s Fair Association expressed its appreciation to all students who participated in the contest and helped showcase the talent found throughout the county’s schools.

The 2026 St. Mary’s County Fair will return to the fairgrounds in Leonardtown from Sept. 24 through Sept. 27, featuring agricultural exhibits, livestock competitions, entertainment, carnival rides, educational displays and family-friendly activities celebrating the county’s agricultural heritage.

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