SILVANA — The Silvana Fair Board Auction has drawn more than 300 attendees in previous years, but the annual event’s organizers hope to equal, if not exceed, those totals on Saturday, March 8, when the auction is set to return to the Viking Hall at 1331 Pioneer Hwy. in downtown Silvana, west of I-5 off Exit 208.

Lynn Pattison, a member of the Silvana Fair Board, promised attendees that they could look forward to bidding on gift certificates “from nearly every local restaurant and shop,” clothing and jewelry, livestock and pet food and supplies, fresh baked goods, quilts and blankets, yard art, garden plants, gift certificates for hair and dental care, veterinary and chiropractic care, automotive and home repair services, tools, toys, artwork and more.

Although the evening begins with the opening of the doors and the snack bar at 5 p.m., followed by a preview of the items up for auction for the next half-hour, bidding on the silent auction doesn’t open until 5:30 p.m., with tables closing at staggered times throughout the night.

“At 6 p.m., the excitement really builds when the live auction starts,” Pattison said. “Sharp-eyed spotters will watch the crowd for raised paper plates indicating bids. Tickets will be drawn to win prizes several times throughout the evening, and at the end of the night, one bidder will win a large cash prize, which they must be present to win. Admission is free, all ages are invited, and you’re sure to have a great time. Come early to get the best seating, plan your bidding strategy, and enjoy the atmosphere and the snack bar, or come when you can — either way, you’re sure to find something you want, and the money raised goes to a good cause.”

The Silvana Fair Board Auction raises funds each year to operate the Silvana Community Fair, which always takes place on the last Saturday in July, at the fairgrounds behind Viking Hall. The Silvana Fair is the only local fair which is completely free to enter and to attend, since even the parking is free.

“Have a fun evening helping raise money for our local all-volunteer fair, and see what wonderful treasures and bargains you can take home,” Pattison said.

For more information, log onto www.silvanafair.com.