Our History

Fairs and agricultural exhibits have been a long tradition in Montgomery, dating back to at least 1854—nearly a century before the modern Alabama National Fair. The early fair, sponsored by the Alabama State Agricultural Society, was held on grounds along the Alabama River north of the city, described in an 1858 issue of Harper’s Weekly as a large, scenic grassy plain.

These fairs declined during periods of war and economic hardship and had disappeared from Central Alabama by 1930.

The idea for a new fair emerged in 1954 when, during construction of Garrett Coliseum, a visitor remarked that the site would be perfect for one. Soon after, members of the Kiwanis Club of Montgomery visited Macon to study fair operations and formed the South Alabama Fair Association, Inc., starting with just $500 borrowed from the club treasury. Many Kiwanians personally guaranteed any potential losses. Their efforts paid off: the first fair generated more than $20,000 in profit and established a successful annual October event benefiting the community.

Fair proceeds have supported numerous organizations, including Boys and Girls Clubs, Brantwood Children’s Home, Camp ASCCA, Children’s Harbor, the Cleveland Avenue YMCA, Landmarks Foundation, the Montgomery Area Council on Aging, the Montgomery Area Food Bank, Fellowship of Christian Athletes, Montgomery Public Schools’ Reading Is Fundamental program, Girl Scouts, Group Homes for Children, and Father Walter’s Resurrection Catholic Mission.

As the event expanded, its name evolved. In 1969 it became the South Alabama State Fair, and in 1997 it was renamed the Alabama National Fair to reflect growing out-of-state participation.

The Fair remains an independent, self-sustaining nonprofit—not a state agency. Financial awards and prizes associated with the Fair are provided through contributions from a diverse group of private-sector partners and governmental organizations.

Nearly all members of the Kiwanis Club of Montgomery volunteer their time and expertise to run the fair. Business leaders serve on committees, professionals contribute specialized skills, and many members work the gates or assist with operations. Their spouses also donate hundreds of volunteer hours each year.

The Fair’s mission remains unchanged: to host an educational event that supports youth, promotes Alabama’s industry, agriculture, and livestock, encourages arts and culture, and provides the community a chance each year to come together and enjoy the Fair.

Kiwanis Giving Back & Community Impact

The Alabama National Fair and the Kiwanis Club of Montgomery have built a long-standing partnership centered on community service and charitable giving in Montgomery. Since the fair’s founding in 1954, proceeds from the annual event have funded programs that support youth, families, and community organizations across the region.

Community Giving

Revenue generated by the fair is distributed through the Kiwanis Club of Montgomery to numerous nonprofits and service programs. Beneficiaries have included organizations focused on youth development, education, healthcare, and community assistance. Examples include:

• Boys & Girls Clubs of America (local chapters)

• Camp ASCCA

• Children’s Harbor

• YMCA programs in Montgomery

• Montgomery Area Food Bank

• Girl Scouts of the USA (local councils)

• Fellowship of Christian Athletes

Funds have also supported literacy initiatives in Montgomery Public Schools and programs for children in need.

Volunteer Impact

Members of the Kiwanis Club of Montgomery and their families provide thousands of volunteer hours each year to operate the fair. Volunteers help with ticket gates, exhibits, logistics, and planning committees. Professionals—including lawyers, engineers, architects, and business leaders—also donate their expertise to ensure the event runs successfully.

Economic and Social Impact

Beyond charitable giving, the fair contributes to the local economy by attracting visitors, supporting agricultural and livestock exhibitors, and creating opportunities for local vendors and performers. It also provides educational exhibits highlighting Alabama agriculture, industry, and youth achievements.

Lasting Mission

The mission of the Alabama National Fair remains focused on:

• Supporting youth development

• Promoting agriculture, livestock, and Alabama industry

• Encouraging arts, culture, and education

• Bringing the community together for an annual celebration

Through the partnership between the Alabama National Fair and the Kiwanis Club of Montgomery, a single annual event continues to generate year-round benefits for the community.