The Beltrami County Fairboard Alternative Events subcommittee has a plan for those who would like to display their artistry and gardening favorites in a new and exciting way utilizing “drive by” strategy. Check out our Blooming Trails Horticulture Event and competition!
There will be 5 categories available for entries defined by usual horticultural descriptors plus an additional guideline that the displays be easily visible from vehicles passing slowly by to vote on entries. Entrants will be required to unload and stay with their entries (and vehicle) in the spaces designated. Citizens are invited to attend while remaining in their vehicles and following the “trails” through the Fairgrounds viewing and ultimately voting on the entries. Ballots (one for each occupant of vehicles) and a map will be issued at the South Main Gate at the Fairgrounds for all participants. There is no age limit and no entry or gate fees.
This event will be held Saturday, August 15, 2020 with setup from 9-10 AM, voting and tour between 10 and noon. The committee plans on using gift cards purchased from local businesses for first and second place prizes in each of the categories. The 5 categories are listed below. All entries must use flowers, herbs or vegetables from the garden or porch/yard of the entrant. Contestants can enter one exhibit per each category.
1. Any hanging basket of a minimum of 12 inches in diameter. It may be comprised of one specimen or several and entrant will be required to provide the rack or shepherds hook needed to display the basket.
2. Any patio or porch pot, measuring at least 2 feet tall–can contain any specimens of flower or vegetable that looks pleasing and dramatic when viewed from a car.
3. A decorated chair at a minimum of 2 feet tall-using a minimum of 3 plants or plant material from your garden.
4. A garden creation with two subdivisions: exhibit either a) scarecrow or b) comic strip character. This exhibit must be a life-size creation and is required to be able to sit or stand on its own. Use your imagination (must be handmade and not a purchased product from a store).
5. Any unique decorative garden “art” including plants of choice in the display. Use things such as a wheelbarrow, unique plant stand, watering can, basket or other garden art designed to hold and showcase plants and impress the viewers who are driving by.
Entrants are responsible for loading and unloading their entries and caring for their designated area including cleanup on the day of the event only. No entries will be allowed at the Fairgrounds other than during the time period of the event. Swag bags will be provided to those participating and returning their ballots at the North Gate exit. To avoid crowds, winners will be announced via social media. Social distancing is required for all participants and entrants must stay in their designated exhibit spaces.
Pre-registration is required (no exceptions) and a form for such will be posted on the Beltrami County Fair website by Thursday, Aug. 13. Download and complete that form and email it to bcmnfair@paulbunyan.net, print and mail to Beltrami County Fair Office, 7223 Fairgrounds Rd NW, Suite 7B, Bemidji MN 56601 or, if you do not have computer access, call the Extension Office at 218-444-5722 to register. Preregistration is due on or before Friday, August 7, 2020 to allow time to create maps and set up the Fairgrounds for use. The map will be posted online (August 12, 2020, Wednesday) before the event.
Updates will be posted on the Beltrami County Fair Facebook page, the Beltrami County Fair website: https://beltramicountyfair.org/, the Bemidji Garden Club Facebook page and via the local written and broadcast news media. Please address questions via email to: bcmnfair@paulbunyan.net or call the Fair Office at 218-444-8169 and leave a message. Your call will be returned when time allows.
