Fairs in Dade City date back to 1915 but there hadn't
been any for a long time when a group of local businessmen got together
in 1947 to start a fair to showcase county resources.
The group was led by San Antonio rancher D.E. Cannon,
along with agriculture agent Jimmy Higgins and businessmen George Nikolai,
Bob Williams and Joe Collura.The group found a perfect location on 40
acres along State Road 52 and raised $3,500 to purchase the site.
On April 7, 1947, the Pasco County Fair Association
Inc. was chartered with the purpose of hosting an annual fair to promote
youth and other county resources. The first documented county fair was
Jan. 20 through 24, 1948. The association has remained an independent,
non-profit organization since its founding. In other words, no tax dollars
or other government funding is given to put on the annual fair. Rather
the fair association relies on memberships, fair revenues and income
from rentals of the buildings on the fairgrounds to continue.
There are currently about 600 members. Memberships
are available for $25 for individuals and $55 for families. Members
receive free admission to the fair each day and free parking. Members
are also invited to an annual membership meeting in April which include
a free barbecue.
Deadlines for memberships is January 31st. For memberships,
stop by the Pasco County Fair Office, 36722 State Road 52, Dade City,
FL 33526, or call (352) 567-6678. (Location Map-Click Here)
