Erie County Fair accepting veteran & active military nominations for flag retreat ceremonies

Erie County Fair Press Release

The Erie County Fair is proud to continue its tradition of honoring veterans and active military personnel during its 12-day run in August. Each evening, one individual will be recognized as a “Flag Retreat Honoree of the Day” during the patriotic flag retreat ceremony in Slade Park.

Nominations are now open and may be submitted online at flag retreat ceremony (ECFair.org), or pick up an application at The Made in America Store location in Elma. Submissions are due by July 15. Honorees will be selected by a selection committee based on their service, character and contributions to the community.

Now in its seventh year, the daily flag retreat ceremony takes place daily at 6:30 p.m. and features live music by the Erie County Fair Pepsi All-Star Band. The event provides a moment of reflection and gratitude for the person’s service. Honorees receive a full-sized American flag courtesy of the Made in America Store, four admission passes, a Strates Shows midway FunCard, and $20 in meal vouchers.

The program is made possible thanks to The Made in America Store and WOLF-FM.

In addition to the daily flag retreat ceremony, the Erie County Fair will also host its annual Veterans Day celebration on Sunday, Aug. 10. On this day, active military, veterans and auxiliary members receive free admission (with valid ID), plus a $10 voucher valid toward food, beverages or rides. Special programming will take place, including a veterans Catholic Mass at noon in the Family Entertainment Complex, as well as a veterans recognition and enlistment ceremony at 1:30 p.m. on the infield of The Buffalo News Grandstand.

Additionally, all guests are encouraged to visit the military corridor, located inside Gate 4 near the midway entrance. The site features displays and engagement from the U.S. Army Recruiting, New York Army National Guard, and the U.S. Marine Corps.

The Erie County Agricultural Society is a private, not-for-profit membership organization that produces the Erie County Fair. This year’s Erie County Fair will be held Aug. 6-17. Visit www.ECFair.org.