Lighting up the Fair

For three weeks straight, E.K. Fernandez crewmembers, including Frank Buena (above, on the Wild Cat roller coaster), work six days a week to set up the rides, tents and attractions that make up the 50th State Fair. Founded in 1930, the fair is still the largest annual event in the Islands, drawing at least 125,000 attendees. “It’s a lot of work,” says Donna Smith, vice president of E.K. Fernandez, “but when the gates open and you see everyone rushing in, smiling, it’s worth it.” This year’s fair features dance group Kaba Modern from America’s Best Dance Crew, Mitchel Musso from Hannah Montana and a new thrill ride, Fireball. The weekend event runs till June 22. www.ekfernandez.com

Photo by Olivier Koning