The Central Alabama Fair got off to a great start Monday and Tuesday night, but possibly the most anticipated night was the annual kids day Wednesday.

Children were lined up outside the gate waiting to turn in a canned good for their admission.

Although the fair itself is a fundraiser for the Selma Lions Club’s charitable work in the community, the club has been able to find another way to give back to the community by turning kids day into canned food drive.

Students from kindergarten through 12th grade could get into the fair gate with a donation of a can of food or something for the Selma Animal Shelter.

“The canned goods that we take in, it supports the food pantry and the animal shelter, so it’s a win-win for both,” said Scott Haskell, second vice-president of the Selma Lions Club. “We’re a civil organization, so anytime it changes the attitude of the county and the city, it’s good for everyone.”

One parent, Candace Stoudenmire, said she is happy that the fair offers students an opportunity to get in without cash, but more so to give back to the community.

“I think it’s a really good thing,” Stoudenmire said. “Of course, it makes sense to bring canned goods. It’s something good for the community.”

Haskell said allowing children to get in with a donation not only benefits the local food bank and the animal shelter, it’s also a good day for parents on a budget.

“It allows families that can’t afford maybe $5 to go get a $1 can,” Haskell said.

But overall, it’s about the children having fun and enjoying being kids.

“The kids look forward to it all year long,” Haskell said. “People look forward to it all year long.”

Stoudenmire said the fair has always been an exciting time for her, and especially now that she has children.

“I’m really excited. We have a lot of birthdays and stuff this month, so this was always a good time for me growing up. October is the best month, there’s a lot going on,” Stoudenmire said. “I’m just really excited to come and eat the funnel cakes and enjoy everything else.”

The Central Alabama Fair continues through Saturday.

Gates open at 5:30 p.m. Thursday and Friday and 1 p.m. on Saturday.