WASHINGTON, D.C. — Friday was the final day of the Great American State Fair on the National Mall in Washington, D.C.
Guam was represented at the fair, and it’s safe to say the island territory did not disappoint.
All 50 states and territories participated to some extent at the fair, each with either its own, or a shared pavilion located along the National Mall.
As visitors quickly discovered, Guam’s pavilion was full of good vibes, featuring music, live demonstrations and dancing. Attendees had the chance to stop in, relax and cool down from the extreme heat wave gripping the nation’s capital.
The Great Americana State Fair is part of America’s 250th birthday celebrations. However, the fair was orchestrated and overseen by President Donald Trump’s “Freedom250” initiative. The White House-backed celebration is separate from the America250 initiative, which was established by Congress.
Some state leaders chose not to have their states represented at the fair, citing concerns that it was too partisan and too closely aligned with President Trump.
Still, even states that did not officially participate were represented, in part due to efforts by federal lawmakers and other leaders.
Our Washington Bureau caught up with some locals to ask why it was important for Guam to be represented at the fair.
“We are the westernmost tip of the spear in the Marianas. The United States needs us. Our presence brings awareness to who we are, where we are. We speak the same language,” said Mario Borja, a Guam canoe builder and sailor. “We are very supportive of the United States. We want the people of America to know who we are.”
A 110-foot Ferris wheel, the fully refurbished 1947 Smithsonian carousel, a FIFA fan zone, and other displays were among the more popular attractions for attendees.
The fair also featured daily themes, including military appreciation, agricultural celebrations, health and well-being day, and other cultural events. Hours-long military flyovers throughout the week by the U.S. Air Force Thunderbirds, bombers, as well as the Navy’s Blue Angels, were among the crowd favorites at the fair.
