Given the roller coaster ride we’ve been on the past couple of years, it’s no wonder that families flocked to the 43rd annual Indian River County Firefighters’ Fair at the IRC Fairgrounds to enjoy a bit of family fun.
In March 2020, the fair was canceled before it began, and last year it opened under pandemic safety precautions. This year, despite minor weather-related setbacks, attendance was up, said Jeff Raynor, assistant manager.
“We’re kind of starting over, rebuilding again. We pride ourselves on giving the community a good show at least once a year and they pay us back by coming.”
Proceeds from the 10-day event support the IRC Burn Fund, high school scholarships, fairground improvements and charitable organizations, which this year included the American Red Cross, United Against Poverty, the Salvation Army and, by way of blood donations, One Blood.
The fair also supports the community by promoting the agricultural endeavors of local youth through the Indian River County Youth Livestock and Horticulture Activities Show.
“It wouldn’t be a county fair without animals. They are the backbone of a county fair,” said Raynor.
Activities in the barn included the crowning of the Barn King and Queen and a whip-cracking contest, and youth projects – including citrus trees, swine, poultry, rabbit, Boer goat, sheep, steer, cavy and breed stock – were judged and auctioned. In the exhibition hall there was stiff competition at the baked goods and candies, creative crafts, and canning contests.
The goat yoga class was a big hit again this year, with sessions selling out in less than a day.
While there was more cuddling than ‘downward dog’ and ‘sun salutation,’ the benefits of playing with the “kids” was well worth the chilly morning temperatures.
David Flynt, president of Indian River County Youth Livestock and Horticulture, said they were thrilled to have a new, school-based 4-H club join the competition.
Likening it to the camaraderie you see in team sports, Flynt said, the experience affects the exhibitors for years to come.
“They have memories and awards that last a lifetime,” said Flynt. “In a world where we see so much ‘me, me, me, me,’ we see these exhibitors coming together and supporting each other selflessly time and again. It creates better citizens.”
The dizzying sights, sounds and scents tempted fairgoers with carny food, games and rides, as well as daily shows, demonstrations and entertainment, including Vero Beach Recreation Department Aerial Antics performers and the annual Firefighter Training Show, which gives children the opportunity to learn about fire safety.
And each day, one lucky person had a chance to visit the Cash Cyclone presented by Toyota Kia of Vero Beach, stepping inside a booth and grabbing as much moolah as possible, with proceeds supporting the Gifford Youth Orchestra.
Photos by Kaila Jones
