Copyright Live 5 News WCSC
LADSON, S.C. (WCSC) - The Coastal Carolina Fair concluded its 68th year Sunday at Ladson Exchange Park, with organizers emphasizing the event’s charitable mission and family fun. The fair featured 65 rides across 180 acres, along with classic games, food vendors and a petting zoo that welcomed a new baby donkey. “Why we have the fair here is to give to charities in the local Tri-County area,” Coastal Carolina Fair President Fred Whittle said. Robert Patterson, owner of Top Shelf Catering and Beverage and Special Ops Events, said sales were up double digits this year. “Every time we win, the community wins,” Patterson said. “When we’re up in sales, that gives us more proceeds to be able to give to those local charities. So, it has been a huge success.” But the fair isn’t about profit. The fair runs on volunteers who say they get paid in a different way. “The joy on the faces of children is the thing that is my pay. And I’m not paid as a volunteer. But that certainly is a rewarding thing for us to see.” Whittle said. The baby donkey was already out, greeting visitors on the final day. “I came out and I saw feet. So I knew I had to step in and help her, and it’s a healthy little girl,” Charles Beam, owner of All American Petting Zoo, said. Local vendors said the fair provides both business opportunities and community connections. “I make a living, so I keep coming back, plus all the directors here, they’re beautiful people,” John Koutoufaris, owner of John Greek Food Concessions, said. While today was the final day of the fair, several people said this is proof that when a community comes together for fun, everyone wins, especially the local charities helping those in need with the donations.
