The 2012 Sonoma County Fair will introduce "Inspiration Stations" and is currently seeking individuals and groups to lead short workshops on arts, hobbies, home crafts and other skills.

 “From fly tying to rug hooking, we know there are individuals and groups in our community with incredible talent and enthusiasm,” says Lance Walker, Inspiration Station Coordinator. “And there are lots of folks who'd like to just sit down and try something new, or maybe practice a favorite craft with others who share their interest. We've created the Inspiration Stations to bring these two groups together.”

 Beyond the joy of sharing interests, participating groups may promote membership, expand interest in their craft and potentially sell kits or encourage people to sign up for classes. Fair tickets and a small honorarium for supplies are available to participating groups and individuals. This is a wonderful opportunity to have a little fun with your craft while exposing your skill to over 330,000 fairgoers.

 The fair plans three stations, one in each exhibit building. Finley Hall will feature primarily youth activities, while the Garrett and Kraft Buildings will be more broadly themed around home arts. Sessions will typically last 45-60 minutes, but timing will be flexible when needed to accommodate a specific activity. For this first year, activities will be limited to the afternoons.
 Says Tawny Tesconi, Sonoma County Fair Manager, "We see so many unique exhibits at the Fair each year, and then we hear Fairgoers say, 'I wish I knew how to make that!' We figured it was time to give people what they were asking for, and also to offer talented artisans the opportunity to share what they know."

 Applications to lead a workshop are available at www.sonomacountyfair.com. For more information, contact the fair office at 545-4200 or e-mail lance.walker@sonoma-county.org

 The 2012 Sonoma County Fair theme is “Cruise On In,” and it offers 17 days of fun, including live horse racing, a huge carnival, the spectacular Hall of Flowers, tons of free entertainment and much, much more. The fair runs July 25 through August 12 and is closed on Mondays. Join the conversation by finding “Sonoma County Fairgrounds” on Facebook.