Centre County proclaims Aug. 15–23 ‘Grange Fair Days,’ officials highlight economic impact and programs

The Centre County Board of Commissioners on Aug. 7 adopted a proclamation declaring Aug. 15–23, 2025, as Grange Fair Days and heard a presentation from fair organizers about entertainment, attendance and county participation.

Why it matters: organisers and commissioners said the fair is a longstanding regional event with substantial economic activity and county involvement that includes job outreach, voter services and county informational booths.

Fair leaders Barry and Ben, identified in the meeting as current and former Grange Fair presidents, told commissioners the Centre County Grange Fair is one of the largest in Pennsylvania by attendance and the largest by land area, and that the fair generates significant economic impact. "We actually generate the most economic impact in the state," one speaker said, citing an estimated economic impact of about $20,000,000 related to the fair and associated activities. Organizers said the fair occupies roughly 264 acres and hosts concerts, family events and exhibitions.

Organizers outlined key highlights planned for the 2025 fair, including headline entertainers and family programming: a Thursday evening opening ceremony at 6 p.m., a queen coronation on Wednesday at 6 p.m., marquee acts such as impersonator Terry Lee Goffi and country performers mentioned by organizers, and children's-day giveaways by county commissioners.

County participation and services: Commissioner Concepciono noted that the county elections office will operate a mobile election van at the fair (near the Emporium) to provide voter registration and ballot information. Commissioners said the county will maintain a tent near the Emporium where residents can ask about employment opportunities and county services; organisers thanked county departments including the sheriff's office, the Department of Corrections and emergency management personnel for logistical support such as tent setup.

The commissioners adopted Proclamation No. 38 (2025) formally recognizing Grange Fair Days by voice vote. Commissioners and fair organizers encouraged residents to attend scheduled events, including an ice-cream social at the grandstand on Monday, Aug. 18, at 11 a.m. sponsored by the commissioners using Penn State Creamery in-kind support.

The proclamation and remarks confirm the county's ongoing role as a partner for the fair and announce the dates of county-related activities during the event.