The Hopewell Harvest Fair has announced that its 38th annual fair will take place on Saturday, Sept. 19, on the grounds of Hopewell Elementary School. A rain date is scheduled for Saturday, Oct. 3.
As planning gets underway, organizers are inviting the community to help shape this year’s fair by entering the annual Harvest Fair Cover Art Contest, which will celebrate the 100th anniversary of Hopewell Elementary School.
Artists are encouraged to create original artwork that blends the spirit of the harvest season with the school’s century-long history. Organizers suggest themes such as students, teachers, learning, the historic school building or other school traditions woven together with the colors and atmosphere of autumn.
The winning artwork will appear on the cover of the fair’s annual Almanac as well as promotional materials including posters and postcards. The winning artist will also receive a $250 cash prize.
Artwork submissions are due July 20.
The Harvest Fair, first held in 1987, has become one of Hopewell Valley’s signature community events, drawing families from throughout the region for a day of local food, live entertainment, vendors, children’s activities, contests and community organizations.
Beyond the annual celebration, the volunteer-run nonprofit uses proceeds from the fair to support local organizations through its Community Grant Program. Over the years, the fair has awarded more than $225,000 to area nonprofits, including Scouting America, Girl Scouts, local school PTOs, HomeFront, Younity, The Chubby’s Project, Sourland Conservancy and many others.
Organizers are also seeking sponsors for this year’s event. Businesses and organizations interested in supporting the fair are encouraged to secure sponsorships as early as possible to help organizers plan activities and amenities for the September event.
The Hopewell Harvest Fair is organized entirely by volunteers, and organizers also welcome residents interested in joining the planning team.
For complete information about the cover art contest, sponsorship opportunities, volunteering or this year’s fair, visit hopewellharvestfair.org.
