The Fair Person of the Year Award recognizes the outstanding service of one individual to their fair and the industry as a whole. This year we honor a remarkable individual whose work reflects unwavering dedication, strong leadership, and a deep love for the fair industry. For more than six decades, the nominee served their fair with a sense of purpose that goes far beyond titles or responsibilities. From the earliest days of involvement as a young volunteer, the nominee embraced every task with humility, determination, and pride in helping their fair succeed. The nominee had always seen leadership not as a position, but as a responsibility to roll up sleeves and work alongside others. Whether coordinating operations, maintaining the fairgrounds, supporting volunteers, or stepping in wherever help was needed, the nominee made sure every fair season felt seamless for exhibitors, vendors, and visitors alike. Even as the years went on, and challenges grew greater, their commitment never wavered. Their heart and spirit remained strong, guiding and mentoring others and preparing the next generation of leaders to follow in those footsteps.

The nominee became involved with the Virginia Association of Fairs early on, from serving on the board of directors rising to the level of association president in the 80s. They also served the association on a variety of committees through 2015. The nominee’s passion has always extended deeply into the community, especially to youth. They have supported programs such as 4-H and FFA, opened the fairgrounds for educational events (such as Farm Safety Day) and championed opportunities for young people to learn, compete, and build lifelong memories. The nominee has selflessly given time, energy, and resources to civic groups, first responders, and community organizations; always ready to lend a hand, support a fundraiser, or help a worthy cause succeed. The nominee served as a member of the National Guard for a decade, and although they never saw active duty, their sense of duty and commitment was evident. When asked what meant the most throughout their expansive career, the nominee commented, “the main thing I love, is to watch the small kids get excited when they see the lights and then they grow up and start showing animals. It feels good to do something for the younger generation.”

The nominee’s legacy is the family they raised and the fair family they helped build. The nominee had a role in selecting, preparing and training several generations of fair members, board members, and officers. The nominee’s shared knowledge and experience still guide their team today even after their passing in June of 2025. Their fair board has found themselves channeling their former leader during meetings and discussions. “Do they have proof of insurance? Will they need electricity? I wouldn’t put the dog show next to the monster truck! Who’s going to run that activity? Where’s the money coming from for that show?” And if it’s something the nominee approved of “You got that right.” It is with deep gratitude and admiration that we present this year’s Fair Person of the Year Award to an extraordinary individual whose lifetime of service will continue to inspire us for generations to come. This year’s Fair Person of the Year is Auburn Estes from the Five County Fair. Receiving the award on his behalf is his brother (pictured) TJ Estes.