Georgia National Fair continues despite Hurricane Helene’s impact [Video]

PERRY, Ga. — The Georgia National Fair is set to open its gates Thursday, bringing an atmosphere of excitement to Perry just days after Hurricane Helene swept through parts of the state.

As vendors from across the country scramble to set up their booths, fair organizers remain optimistic about the eleven-day event, which is expected to draw over 500,000 visitors.

“We were preparing for the worst, but always hoping for the best,” said Maggie Lane, marketing director for the fair. “We are so fortunate, especially here in Perry. Very little effects from Hurricane Helene.”

The fair’s resilience in the face of recent challenges highlights its significance to both the local community and vendors who travel from afar. Brian Gillette, owner of Gillette’s Pizza from North Carolina, has been a fixture at the fair for three decades. 

“We’ve been doing the fair for about 30 years now,” Gillette …