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Awards & Press

2024

Hyovalti named District 3 Fair Person of The Year

The Anoka County Fair announced that Ray Hyovalti has been named the District 3 County Fair Person of the Year.

This prestigious honor recognizes Hyovalti’s more than 36 years of exceptional service, leadership, and dedication to the Anoka County Fair and its community, according to a press release from the fair.

Since beginning as a Director in 1988, Ray has served as President for nine years and Fair Manager for 18. Under his leadership, the fair has flourished through modernized facilities, the construction of new livestock barns, infrastructure improvements, and enhanced fair programming, the release states. He played a pivotal role in strengthening partnerships with county officials, vendors, sponsors, and community groups, ensuring the fair remains a staple of the Anoka-Ramsey area.

“Ray’s passion and dedication have made an immeasurable impact on the Anoka County Fair and community,” Michael Ahlers, President of the Anoka County Fair Board said in a release. “This recognition is well-deserved and a testament to his outstanding contributions.”

Hyovalti influence is a family legacy. His son Keith serves as Livestock Director, his wife Cheryl has dedicated 30 years to the fair office, and his daughter Jenna hours volunteers at the fair.

Fall Festival Gives Back

The Anoka County Fairgrounds Fall Festival Gives Back!

This Thanksgiving, we're filled with gratitude as we share some incredible news. Thanks to your support, The Anoka County Fairgrounds Fall Festival raised $6,000 for the North Anoka County Emergency Food Shelf (NACE)!

With over 8,000 attendees this October, your contributions made this donation possible—helping families in need during the holiday season.

“We are beyond thankful for the incredible community support that made this donation possible,” said Michaela Liebl, Fair Manager. “This is a reminder of the heart of Anoka County when we come together to make a difference.”

Thank you to every attendee, vendor, and volunteer who helped make this happen. Let’s continue to celebrate the power of community and the importance of giving back.

If you’d like to contribute directly to NACE, visit their website here: https://www.nacefoodshelf.org/donate.

Fair Courtesy Cart Drivers Donate Tips

Anoka County Fair Donates Over $1,500 to Northern Anoka County Emergency Food Shelf

Thanks to the generosity of our fairgoers, The Anoka County Fair proudly donated $1,594.70 to The Northern Anoka County Emergency Food Shelf (NACE) today. Every dollar was raised through the tips collected by our courtesy cart drivers in the parking lot area during the 2024 Anoka County Fair.

This donation reflects the incredible spirit of giving within our community and our shared commitment to making a difference for local families in need. The funds will help provide essential food and resources to those facing hunger in Northern Anoka County.

“We are so grateful for the support of our fairgoers, volunteers, and everyone who contributed to this effort,” said Nick Mayer. “The Anoka County Fair has always been about more than just entertainment, it’s about bringing people together and giving back to the community that supports us year after year.”

The Anoka County Fair remains committed to charitable partnerships that strengthen and uplift the local community. We extend our heartfelt appreciation to everyone who played a part in this donation, and we look forward to continuing these efforts in the future.

Friend Of 4-H Award

Anoka County Fair Manager Michaela Liebl Honored with Friend of 4-H Award

The Anoka County Fair is proud to announce that Fair Manager Michaela Liebl has been recognized with the Friend of 4-H Award for her outstanding dedication to youth development and agricultural education.

Michaela's passion for fairs and her commitment to fostering strong relationships between the Anoka County Fair and 4-H have created countless opportunities for young exhibitors to learn, grow, and showcase their hard work. Her leadership has helped expand educational programs, strengthen community partnerships, and ensure that 4-H remains a vital part of the fair experience.

“I am truly honored to receive this award,” said Liebl. “4-H has played a huge role in my life.

2024 IAFE National Awarded Projects

Anoka County Fairgrounds Record-Breaking Success

Anoka County Fairgrounds Celebrates Record-Breaking Success at International Association of Fairs and Expos (IAFE) Awards Ceremony

The Anoka County Fairgrounds has received extraordinary recognition from the International Association of Fair and Festivals (IAFE). At the 2024 IAFE Awards Ceremony competing with over 2000 entries, the Anoka County Fairgrounds secured 10 first-place awards, 3 second-place awards, and 2 third-place awards, setting a new standard for excellence.

The pinnacle of this achievement was earning the Overall Award for Best of Division One - Non-Fair Facility Usage, a prestigious honor achieved in partnership with Compass Child Care. This accolade cements the Anoka County Fairgrounds’ reputation as a trailblazer in innovative programming, community engagement, and operational excellence.

Programs like the Compass Ag Education Building, Fair Buddies Initiative, and the unique Silent Barnyard Disco exemplify the creativity and impact Anoka County Fairgrounds has not only to the local community but to others in the fair and festival industry. These initiatives highlight the dedication and ingenuity of the team, partners, and sponsors who contributed to this record-breaking year.

“This recognition is a testament to the hard work and creativity of our team, our incredible partners, and the entire Anoka County community,” added Michael Ahlers, Fair President. “Winning 10 First Place Awards at this level is a phenomenal achievement, and we are so proud to represent Minnesota on an international stage. Thank you to everyone who helped make 2024 such a monumental year for the Anoka County Fairgrounds!”

A Community Effort to Celebrate The Anoka County Fairgrounds extends gratitude to the incredible fair board, volunteers, and community partners who made this milestone possible. Special thanks go to partners including Anoka County 4-H, Compass Child Care, Rum River Art Center, Anoka County Commute Solutions, Ovative Group, Hoot Owl Concessions, and IAFE - The Network. Their collaboration and commitment to innovation have set a new benchmark for success.

With this record-breaking year behind us, the Anoka County Fairgrounds is already planning for 2025. These awards represent more than recognition—they symbolize what can be achieved through innovation, collaboration, and a shared dedication to serving our community.

Michaela Liebl, Anoka County Fair Manager, shared, “Thank you to our supporters, attendees, and partners for making the Anoka County Fairgrounds a standout destination. Together, we will continue to build on this success and create exceptional experiences for years to come.”

For more information about the Anoka County Fairgrounds, visit www.anokacountyfair.com.

2023

2023 IAFE National Awarded Projects

Press Release Anoka County Fairgrounds Sweeps National Awards at the 2023 IAFE Annual Convention

1st Place The Fall Festival - Social Media (Facility Specific)

1st Place The Fall Festival - Successful Non-Fair Event at your Facility

1st Place Farm Animal Rock Adoption - Other Event

1st Place Cow & Kids - Agriculture Individual Photo

2nd Place Wedding Day - 1st Year Event NOT produced by Facility Staff

2nd Place Rock Paper Scissors - Competitive Event

The Anoka County Fairgrounds Fall Festival Donates

The Fall Festival at The Anoka County Fairgrounds, which took place from October 6th to 8th, has donated $7,000 to the NACE (North Anoka County Emergency) Food Shelf. This contribution was made possible by the event's attendees; the festival had over 6,000 attendees during its 3 day run. A portion of the gate admission was used for the donation to the NACE.

The Anoka County Fairgrounds' contribution will play a vital role in furthering the NACE Food Shelf's mission to offer essential support to individuals and families in the area.

“This is really helping us right now when we have more than doubled the people we are serving and the food cost has tripled over the last two years,” Susan Diersen, Executive Director at NACE food shelf.

This donation demonstrates how community events can have a positive influence. The Anoka County Fairgrounds, together with The Fall Festival, continues to serve and support the community.

Press Release The Anoka County Fairgrounds Fall Festival Donates $7,000 to NACE Food Shelf, Embracing Community Giving