Pike County celebrates with annual fair
Troy locals and students got the chance to get together with rides, food, games and familiar faces during the Pike County Fair last week.
For many attendees, the annual event is more than a source of entertainment – it’s a tradition that reflects the close-knit spirit of Pike County.
Troy University freshman Rory Stagner said attending the fair as a student offered a chance to experience a local tradition in a new way and connect with the community.
“I feel like it really represents the sense of community that we have here,” Stagner said. “Everyone likes to gather for these events, it’s really nice to see people you recognize and get to know new people a little more.”
She added that the Ferris wheel is something every Troy student should experience at least once. It offers a great view of the fairgrounds and is an iconic part of the fair.
The fair is held by the Troy Shrine Club and attracts visitors from across the Pike County area each year.
While students appreciate the fair as a way to connect with the Troy community, longtime residents see the fair as an annual tradition that continues to evolve.
For Troy local Anthony Arnold, the fair’s appeal lies in the attractions offered for families and the growth of the fair each year.
Arnold noted this year’s fair offered more attractions for older kids than previous years.
“Last year, they didn’t have many rides for the older kids, but this year I’ve noticed there’s a lot more.”
Arnold said attending the fair has become an annual tradition for him and his family, and it plays an important role in the community.
“This is Troy,” Arnold said. “Without this, we lose an essential piece of our community.”
Pike County resident Melinda Defee echoed that sentiment and emphasized how fair season is her favorite time of year.
“It’s finally starting to cool down, and it’s just a time for everybody to come together. You get to see people you haven’t seen in a long time,” Defee said. “It’s just great.”
Defee also noted that the organizers of the fair have a big impact on the community and how the fair highlights the spirit and charm of Pike County.
“Especially because the Shriners host the fair, I think it shows what a giving community it is that shows up for everybody and takes care of one another.”
The Troy Shrine club has sponsored the Pike County Fair for over 55 years. It’s the biggest fundraiser the organization holds all year. Through the Shriner’s organization, the proceeds raised from the fair are used to benefit 22 children’s hospitals and over a million children across the state at no cost to the families.
Whether it’s a ride on the Ferris wheel, a family tradition or simply catching up with old friends, attendees said the Pike County Fair holds a special place in their hearts, and its greatest value comes from bringing the community together.
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