The Elkhart County 4-H Fair is hosting a ceremony for the groundbreaking of the Heritage Park Stage Annex at 7 p.m. on Wednesday, Oct. 13.

The ceremony will celebrate the commencement of the construction for the addition to the Heritage Park Stage.

Individuals and businesses were able to contribute to the campaign through tax deductible donations or through purchasing engraved stone plaques. So far $35,200 has been raised towards the project with a final goal of $60,000 needed to complete it.

The Annex will replace a travel trailer that has been used as a dressing room for entertainers and groups during the Fair and the new space will provide dressing rooms during Fair and meeting space for 4-H groups, fair board members and rentals outside of the annual Fair.

The committee is applying for matching grants to secure the difference needed to reach $60,000 and hopes that raising the initial $35,200 will show their commitment to the project to the grant committees. Any additional funds raised in excess of $60,000 will be placed in a donor restricted account and used towards the maintenance of Heritage Park and the Stage.

The Elkhart County 4-H Fair’s Heritage Park Stage is the center of many daily events, professional acts and community showcases during the annual Fair. Noche Latina, Dance Day, and the Senior Citizen Talent Showcase are some of of the events that are hosted on this stage during the annual Fair.

Individuals may still purchase engraved plaques by contacting the Fairgrounds Office.