Changes to Open Class at the Fair
Aug 08, 2025 03:48PM ● By Oneida County Fairboard
There are some fresh changes coming to the Open Class division of the Oneida County fair this year.
The Fairboard has chosen to discontinue the Homemaker of the Year award due to lack of qualifying entries, and in its place will recognize the multiple talents in the open class divisions. The Homemaker of the Year requires entries in a large number of categories to qualify for the competition, and it is becoming increasingly rare to find participants who are in a position to produce that level of material on a yearly basis.
Grand and Reserve recipients will be honored with recognition awards sponsored by the generous local businesses in Oneida County. They have contributed both money and goods.
Blue and Red ribbons recipients will continue to receive premiums from the Oneida County fairboard.
While entries are limited to 2 per category for judging and awards, we encourage participation by accepting items for display only.
The Senior division has been absorbed into the existing divisions. Individuals with special needs and/or group homes will have their own division.
The entry, judging and recording process has been streamlined with new entry tags, a digital record system, extended entry hours and additional volunteers. See fairbook or facebook for schedule. Fairbooks are available online, and at locations around town (including the Extension Office and Broulims).
Premiums and awards will be paid out Saturday evening in the exhibit building. All entries should be picked up at this time.
Oneida County has many accomplished residents. Open class entries range from 1st time attempts to professionals. We invite all, young and old, to come on down to the fair and display your talents by entering or just join us to see what your neighbors have done. All Open Class displays are totally open for walk-through on Thursday afternoon, Friday and Saturday.
