As spring arrives in west-central Minnesota, planning is already in full swing for the Stevens County Fair — and this year, the excitement goes far beyond the fairgrounds.
The Minnesota Federation of County Fairs has announced that fairs across the state, including Stevens County, have been awarded a prestigious national initiative grant. As part of that honor, Morris has been selected as a stop on the “You Make THE Difference Tour,” a nationwide effort aimed at strengthening rural communities through fairs and local leadership.
The tour will arrive Thursday, April 16, bringing with it nationally recognized rural advocate Ian Hill. Hill, an award-winning social innovator, has worked with more than 1,700 communities across North America, helping towns like Morris build stronger, more sustainable futures.
The local session promises to be both energetic and practical, offering tools and strategies designed to help fair boards, volunteers, and community leaders thrive in the 21st century. Topics will include volunteer recruitment, sponsorship development, governance, and long-term community building — all aimed at keeping rural America vibrant and resilient.
The event will take place at Old #1 Bar & Grill basement, with a meal beginning at 4:30 p.m. followed by the program at 5:30 p.m. Admission is free, and organizers encourage anyone passionate about their community — it’s for anyone from fair board members to local residents and organizers — to attend. More information and registration details are available at mfcf.com and click on YMTD tour.
“This is more than just a meeting,” organizers say. “It’s part of a national movement focused on revitalizing fairs and exhibitions, and recognizing the vital role rural communities play across the country.”
Being selected as a tour stop is a significant honor for Morris, highlighting the community’s leadership in preserving the traditions and impact of county fairs. It also provides a rare opportunity for a town of this size to host a national-level initiative.
Raise the Grandstand Efforts Continue
In addition to the national spotlight, local efforts are building momentum for improvements at the fairgrounds. Plans are underway for a “Raise the Grandstand” campaign kickoff event, aimed at supporting future upgrades to the fairgrounds and Grandstand.
As part of that effort, the fair board will host a pancake breakfast on Saturday, May 9, from 8 a.m. to 11 a.m. at the Lee Community Center on the fairgrounds. The event will be a free-will offering, giving community members a chance to enjoy a great breakfast while also learning more about planned improvements to the fairgrounds.
Organizers say the breakfast will be a great opportunity for residents to stop out, visit with fair board members, and view plans for upcoming changes. Additional details can be found on the fair’s website at stevenscountyfair.org.
Economic Impact Reaches Millions
Fair board members also recently returned from a Zone 4 meeting of the IAFE (International Association of Fairs and Expos) where they gathered new ideas and insights alongside fellow fair leaders.
One key takeaway from the meeting was the significant economic impact county fairs have on their communities. According to a yearlong study of compiled data through participating fairs, events the size of the Stevens County Fair generate an annual economic impact of more than $19 million within the local community.
When factoring in additional events held on the fairgrounds — including horse shows and the fall festival and other events on the fairgrounds — that number climbs even higher, exceeding an estimated $25 million impact annually.
As planning continues for both the upcoming fair and future improvements, these numbers reinforce what many in the community already know: the Stevens County Fair is not only a cherished tradition, but also a major driver of local economic activity.
With national recognition, local investment, and strong community support, the future of the fairgrounds — and the community it serves — looks bright.
Because here in Stevens County, you truly make THE difference.
