In celebration of its 90th anniversary, the Pensacola Interstate Fair is proud to partner with the Escambia County Public Schools and Reithoffer Shows to launch the “Step Right Up Student Awards,” a new program recognizing student achievement across the county’s public schools.
Through this initiative, two students from each grade level (one male and one female) in every Escambia County public school, grades 4 through 12, will be awarded a complimentary admission ticket and ride wristband to this year’s Fair, which runs October 16-26 at the Pensacola Interstate Fairgrounds.
For 90 years, the Pensacola Interstate Fair has been more than just an entertainment destination — it has strived to provide educational opportunities, inspire curiosity, and bring the community together. The “Step Right Up Student Awards” underscores that mission by celebrating students for their accomplishments and encouraging excellence in education.
“We are thrilled to mark our 90th year with a program that shines a spotlight on our local students,” said Jamie McDonald, general manager. “The Fair has always been about more than fun and rides — it’s about community, tradition, and learning. By rewarding student success through the ‘Step Right Up Student Awards,’ we’re continuing that legacy in a meaningful way.”
Escambia County Public Schools Deputy Superintendent Shenna Payne shared the same excitement: “We are grateful to the Pensacola Interstate Fair for recognizing the importance of education in our community. This partnership allows us to celebrate our students’ dedication and achievements, while also showing them how deeply our community values their hard work.”
The selection process for award recipients will be coordinated by individual schools.
The Pensacola Interstate Fair has been a beloved tradition for generations of Northwest Floridians. As it celebrates its 90th year, the Fair remains dedicated to creating opportunities for both fun and learning, while investing in the students who represent the future of Escambia County.
The Pensacola Interstate Fair runs October 16-26, 2025. For more information on the Fair, visit PensacolaFair.com. You can also join us on Facebook at www.facebook.com/PensacolaInterstateFair.
