From baking and canning to art and agriculture, competitions are a staple of the Western Carolina State Fair. This year, the fair will feature two new competitions, hay bale decorating and tablescaping during the 10 Best Days of Fall. 

Hay Bale Decorating

The contest is open to anyone who wants to participate. Hay bales will be decorated onsite at the Western Carolina State Fairgrounds from Oct. 3 to Oct. 11. Judging will take place before the fair opens. Bales will stay decorated and on display at the fair through the fair dates and may not be removed before Mon., Oct. 24. Cash prizes of $100, $50 and $25 will be awarded for first, second and third place, respectively.

Tablescaping Competition 

Sponsored by the Western Carolina State Fair and AllStar Tents and Events, the inaugural tablescaping competition will award a first-place prize of $250 plus gift certificates to various businesses. (Second and third place receive $150 and $100 plus gift certificates.) Each exhibitor will be assigned a 36”L x 36”W x 29”H table. Competitors are encouraged to use their imagination to decorate with at least a framed menu and two place settings for that menu.

Western Carolina State Fair

The fair runs Oct. 14-23 at the Western Carolina State Fairgrounds, 561 May Royal Drive, Aiken. For more information about the fair and competitions, including rules, judging criteria and how to enter, go to LetsRideAiken.com and click on the blue ribbon at the top.