Indiana State Fair & Its Global Reach
The Indiana State Fair was first created in 1851 as a way for farmers to come together and exchange new ideas for improving yield, enhancing farming technique, and showing off their best produce and livestock. Since most of the population lived in rural areas or on farms, this was a great way for the newly created State Board of Agriculture to promote gathering for agricultural reasons.
Today, the Indiana State Fairground & Event Center annually hosts more than 400 meetings, shows, sports, and agricultural events. The signature event is the Indiana State Fair, which happens every summer. This event is laid out over 250 acres. There is over 1 million square feet of event space, making it the perfect venue for year-round attractions.
The Indiana State Fair Mission
The Indiana States Fair’s mission is “to preserve and enhance the Indiana State Fairgrounds and the annual Indiana State Fair for the benefit of all citizens of Indiana.” The vision of the event is upheld by four pillars which include teamwork, service, tradition, and excellence. This helps promote the positive and welcoming Hoosier culture. The sense of community support and integrity can be felt across the state as visiting the fair remains a beloved family tradition for Indiana locals.
Sustainability
The Indiana State Fair is proud to promote sustainability as a continuous effort. The Indiana State Fairgrounds are proud of their water conservation, waste management, and energy reduction strategies. During the 2022 Indiana State Fair, the event center recycled more than 9.4 tons of waste. Through their sustainability efforts, guests are encouraged to participate in sustainability efforts that help to create happier and healthy communities, which in turn create a healthier future for our planet.
Connections to The Center
Our Marketing and Communications Manger, Grace Bland, recently attended the fair and shares her experience with us. Grace says,
Although I am from Indiana, I only had my first experience at the Indiana State Fair recently. It was an incredible opportunity to see how vendors from our state impact the industries of agriculture and livestock around the world.
Grace’s thoughtful insight shines a lot on the global connection the fair offers. Even though the State Fair was originally designed for Hoosiers, it has global touches from across our planet and helps promote The International Centers mission of inform, convene, and connect. The Indiana State Fair is more than an event; it’s a cherished tradition that brings communities together, promotes sustainability, and connects Indiana to the world. Whether you’re a local or a visitor, the fair offers something for everyone.
Grace and her partner enjoying the Indiana State Fair
Sources:
https://www.indianastatefair.com/p/about/sustainability
By Sophie Love – Marketing and Communications Intern
