For 89 years, the Pensacola Interstate Fair has entertained and brought joy to all who have attended it. Despite the long runtime of the fair, few seem to know about the intricate history of this long-running icon. With the fair right around the corner, why not discuss its history?

In 1935 Whittie Weis of Royal American Shows decided to start a fair in the city of Pensacola. He tasked the Kiwanis Club, an international service club, with the honors of hosting the brand-new attraction.

However, the Kiwanis Club cancelled just before the fair was about to open. Without time to spare, Weis decided to ask the then City Clerk of Pensacola, John E. Frenkel Sr., for help. With his knowledge of promotion, thanks to his promotion of radio channel WCOA in 1926 —and the residents of Escambia taking a liking to him — Frenkel was able to drum up support for the fair and it officially started in 1935.

For its first year the fair operated at Cervantes Street and Pace Boulevard. Then, from 1936 until 1939, the fair was held at the corner of Garden Street and Pace Boulevard. In 1940 the land at Pottery Plant Road (now known as Fairfield Drive) was purchased and served as the first permanent home of the fair.

Starting in 1942 the fair became a non-profit organization with its charter being verified by County Judge Fabinski. As a result of this, it was incorporated into the Board of County Commissioners.

The fair continued until 1968 when the land it was located on was sold for development. Later, land on Highway 90 was purchased to serve as the second (and current) home for the fair. Everything was built from the ground up and it re-opened in 1969.

Since then, the fair now owns more than 170 acres of land that is used to develop and host exciting events for the public. Here’s to 11 more years and more of the Pensacola Interstate Fair!