The 50th Annual Capital A’Fair is the last to be organized by the current Executive Director

BISMARCK, ND (KFYR) – Capital A’Fair turns 50 on August 3rd. The event is known for its many vendors and activities and has been hosted for the past two years by Lynae Hanson, executive director of the Bismarck Arts and Galleries Association. To celebrate Capital A’Fair’s 50th anniversary, Lynae Hanson says she made sure it was bigger than in years past. She invited more vendors, more entertainment and even more food options. Hanson says 32 brand new vendors were invited to the fair and a revitalization grant from the North Dakota Department of Commerce gave the organization the chance to decorate the grounds with artistic flair for the event.

“This provided us with funding to hire 10 artists to paint optical illusions on 10 trees on the property,” Hanson said.

Not only is the fair turning 50 this year, but Hanson is hosting the event for the last time. She’ll be retiring next week, but she’s used the event to support local businesses for the past two years.

“That’s what I love about this event – we’re really helping a lot of small businesses,” Hanson said.

She says the event allowed her to meet and network with many people in the community.

“Every year when the loop opens and all the vendors start setting up, it’s kind of like the old home week where you say hello to everyone and really feel like you’re reuniting with people you’ve met along the way,” Hanson said.

Hanson says he likes to remind people that fairs are a great place to buy gifts because you can find something for everyone in the loop of vendors. Capital A’Fair will be held Aug. 4 on the Capitol grounds from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.