Fair Board meets with county commissioners, discusses beer garden, sponsorship options

SIDNEY -- In 2023, the Cheyenne County Fair Board introduced a "beer garden" to the county fair.

The concept was for those attending events in the grandstands, or wanting to meet at a designated location, can have an alcoholic drink during the week of fair. The liquor license defines where beer can be sold and consumed. 

Fair Board representatives met with the county commissioners today to apply for 

"Last year, we had really good success. We didn't have any issues with anybody that came in. It was a really good turnout. We had really good success. Some little hiccups in the beginning; just people not knowing where to go and stuff, but that was a given. So, we're looking to do it again this year. It's the last week of July 20-27. Gates would open approximately 6 p.m. and close at midnight. We would probably apply to start it at noon or a little bit earlier," said board member Ryan Filsinger. 

Fair Board Troy Kurz said an earlier start would be in relation to events that start earlier in the day. Filsinger said the board talked about having an obstacle course, and having the beer garden open at the end of the obstacle course. He said the proposed dates for operating a beer garden are July 23-27, Tuesday through Saturday. 

They also discussed with the commissioners possibly using the former Elks building as an "indoor VIP lounge." The lounge would be open prior to events starting. 

Filsinger said he is not sure if they would need a separate liquor license or can connect the building with the beer garden. Commissioner Randy Miller urged the Fair Board to meet with Cheyenne County Sheriff Adam Frerichs and the state liquor commission.

Proposal to include temporary building naming in sponsorship options

Filsinger and Kurz also said the board is discussing naming rights of a building at the fair grounds for top tier sponsors.

"Last year we really expanded on our sponsorships, and created a bunch of different tiers, for different levels depending on how much you want to spend. The more you spend, the more you got. This year, we revamped that again, and went a little bit deeper than that," Filsinger said.

Filsinger and Kurz said the top tier of sponsorship is proposed to include sponsorship of a building. The sponsorship would allow the sponsoring company or individual to place a temporary banner naming the building. Commissioner Randy Miller said he has no problem including temporary naming rights to a building.

Filsinger added there are four opportunities for the top tier sponsorships; 1 at $7,500 and three at $5,000. Filsinger proposed including one free Exhibit Building rental during the year. Use of the building would have to be a company function, according to discussion in the commissioners meeting. Commissioner Miller said he is cautious about creating competition with the private sector. 

The commissioners encouraged the Fair Board to research the option before including it in the top tier sponsorship packages.