I've been absolutely delighted to be able to photograph the Clinton County Fair Queen competition for the last few years. Getting just a glimpse into the small-town happenings of fair life, community organization and support of local agriculture is SO. MUCH. FUN. I have a special place in my heart for farms and agriculture because (a) my grandfather was a dairy farmer and my fondest childhood memories included playing amidst hay bales and milking parlors, (b) years of watching my nieces become expert 4-H kids has been fantastic, and (c) this summer showed me that farm weddings might be my favorite thing!

The Fabulous Contestants


Who knew that being a fair queen was SO MUCH MORE than looking pretty? Though let me tell you, these girls were looking quite pretty. But the work includes LOTS of representing the county fair, volunteering at community events and traveling to fairs across the whole state of Pennsylvania!


The group of 2023 Fair Queen contestants met for an orientation night in late June. It included some welcome time from the 2022 Fair Queen - Bryley Miller - lots of handbook familiarization, some delicious cupcakes and throwing confetti around. Basically - let's do sorta boring stuff and then make it fun!

Izzy Walker

Christina Smith

Catherine Lavalee

Skyenne Kramer

Gracie Johnson

Margaret Park

Adysyn Phillips

The Crown

Coronation Day!


*insert that Frozen song about Coronation Day running through my head constantly*

It was a long day for the contestants. Interviews with the judges and a long ceremony of representing the fair! Walking up the long aisle escorted by loved ones, sparkling in their beautiful dresses, taking a deep breath and making a speech! It was incredible to watch their bravery and individuality - doing the speech thing SCARED and doing it anyway! Getting passionate about their local fair! Answering questions on the spot!


I was (and still am!) cheering each one of the contestants on. YOU GO GIRLS!

The Moment


So many nerves before the judges made their decision. Again, there are many factors that play into the decision to choose a fair queen. Their poise and communication skills, their confidence and passion for community involvement, their ability to represent their county fair!



Introducing: The 2023 Clinton County Fair Queen! Christina Smith!


And So It Begins!


This weekend, Chrissy the Fair Queen is off on another great adventure to Hershey, PA, for the STATE Fair Queen Competition! I can't be there this time but I am anxiously awaiting all the updates on the Clinton County Fair Queen IG and Facebook page, and I am wishing her all the best!!!