All hail the queen: Carstens looks back on a year as Adair County Fair Queen

Bailey Carstens will complete her final tasks as the Adair County Fair Queen as she hands the title on to a new girl this week with the start of the 2025 Adair County Fair.

The recent Nodaway Valley graduate, who is the daughter of Kyle and Lisa Carstens, says being fair queen is an experience that she will never forget.

“It has truly been an honor to be the fair queen. I few years ago, I would have never seen myself in this position, but being able to go to all the community events, attend the state fair and all of the events at the county fair was truly amazing,” Carstens said. “It’s something I’m forever grateful for.”

One becomes fair queen by filling out an application and meeting all the requirements of the contest. Contestants then participate in group interviews and one-on-one interviews that aid judges in making their final selections.

On stage the night of coronation, the emcee usually asks candidates a question from a hat. Carstens’ question was about all the amazing parts of Adair County.

Carstens wanted to run for fair queen because the county fair is her “home away from home” for a week each summer. Her grandfather Gerald Sychra is also president of the fair board.

“I love it so much, and each and every year, I get excited for the county fair,” Carstens said. “I never thought I’d see myself in this position, but once past queens ran, it inspired me to want to run because it does look like an exciting opportunity. I was super thankful for the experience I love the fair board and everything the fair has to offer.”

Carstens’ Little Mister for the past year has been Benjamin Moyer and her Little Miss has been Alexis Dreher. At area town celebrations and other events, the three of them have cherished opportunities they’ve had to bond.

Carstens plans to attend Simpson College this fall to study pre-dietetics and play volleyball.

“The biggest thing I didn’t expect [being queen] was all the people who want to take photos with you. I love that part that came with the job. Whenever I attended parades throughout the community, that just made my heart melt so very much,” Carstens said. “I’m very excited to use the leadership skills I’ve gained from this experience and the overall experience I’ve had is something that will always stick with me.”