This year marks a significant milestone for Lanna Hubbard, the Scotts Bluff County Fair Director, as she celebrates her 19th year at the helm of an event deeply rooted in community spirit and agricultural heritage. Her tenure has seen her meticulously orchestrate everything from vendor interactions and event coordination to the meticulous upkeep of the fairgrounds, embedding her life inextricably with the annual spectacle for nearly two decades.

Hubbard’s connection to the Scotts Bluff County Fair, however, extends far beyond her managerial duties. As a proud native of Scottsbluff and a former 4-H participant, her personal memories of the fair precede her professional involvement, painting a vivid picture of a childhood spent immersed in its vibrant atmosphere and the enduring traditions it fosters.

Recalling her upbringing, Hubbard shared her deep roots in a local farm family where the farming tradition has spanned three generations, with her children and grandchildren now residing in her childhood home. Her personal journey with the fair began at the age of eight through 4-H, following in the footsteps of older siblings, an experience that cultivated a lifelong passion for the event and its values.

During her formative years, Hubbard actively participated in fair livestock exhibitions, showing sheep, pigs, and beef—a tradition she proudly passed down to her own children. Today, with her grandchildren actively involved, she views the fair through a unique lens, articulating, “I have the best of both worlds,” as she seamlessly navigates both the commercial operations and the integral 4-H static and livestock exhibits.

Observing new generations discover their affection for the fair, Hubbard finds herself transported back to her own cherished memories, often reminiscing about long-standing customs that continue to bring a smile to her face. She fondly recalls a quirky tradition from her youth where, on the final day, someone would inevitably be thrown into the cattle’s watering trough, a testament to the unique and lasting memories each fair creates.

While the logistical intricacies of managing the Scotts Bluff County Fair captivate her, Hubbard understands that its true essence lies beyond the scenes. For her, the fair represents an unparalleled annual occasion where the community she has treasured since childhood can converge, uniting in celebration of their shared heritage and collective bonds.

Hubbard underscores that the fair’s perennial success is a collective achievement, propelled by the dedication of every participant, from attendees to volunteers. It is this profound sense of determination and selfless community spirit, she asserts, that elevates Scotts Bluff County into an exceptional place to live and thrive, making the fair a true reflection of its enduring character.