The festival is a volunteer driven organization governed by a voting member body known as the Capitalarians, a group of individuals that show their love and dedication to the people of Thurston County by donating their time and effort.

This includes local activities such as the donation drive by Bob Leingang Memorial Fish In, All Kids Win, American Cancer Society's Relay for Life, and events held by other area non-profit service groups.

They also visit locations across Oregon, Washington, and British Columbia as the Lakefair Float rides in parades hosted by other community festivals.

In addition to local events, members visit communities around the Pacific Northwest from Oregon to British Columbia as they travel with the Lakefair Float to other festivals.

In early February candidates take part in a one-day event that includes a panel discussion, individual interviews with 5 independent judges from the business community and a speech on a predetermined subject.