Local

Trying to find something to do this month that's fun for the whole family? Look no further than the Clark County Fair! Located at 4401 S. Charleston Pike in Springfield, the Clark County Fair will run from Friday, July 21, through Friday, July 28.

Celebrating its 70th anniversary, this is definitely a fair season not to miss.

“This year, we are offering more of everything for less money. We lowered the admission price to $6, the lowest since 1998, and parking is free,” said Dean Blair, executive director of the Clark County Fairgrounds. “There will be more music, more rides, more attractions, and more brand new events, too. We wanted to make it a value that cannot be missed.”

Here is just some of the fun that awaits you at this year’s fair:

1. Salvation Army 5K at the Fair: Runners and walkers can gather on Wednesday, July 26, at 7 p.m. for this inaugural race that will be the perfect ending to a fun-filled day at the fair with the family. With the sights, sounds and smells of the fair creating an exciting backdrop, be among the first to run (or walk) the new cross country course that borders the lake. All proceeds will benefit the Springfield Salvation Army's at-risk youth programming. Click here to learn more about and register for the Salvation Army 5K.

2. Shark Encounter: "Think of a giant aquarium type of trailer where a diver swims in a wetsuit with the sharks, explaining educational aspects on an underwater mike," said Blair. "It's a cool show." Part of this year's fair midway entertainment, the shark encounter will run at selected show times every day throughout the fair. Click here to see the show's schedule.

3. Pork Chop Review: As seen on "Good Morning America," a squad of spunky swine will put on a show featuring amazing stunts and laughable antics, including jumping hurdles, waltzing and singing. Whatever the gig, think pig! Also part of the midway entertainment, the Pork Chop Review will be held at various times during the afternoon and evening over the course of the fair.

4. Truck Tugs and Tractor Pulls: Always favorite events, there will be four separate opportunities for you to watch and hear the roar of tractors and trucks (and their proud owners) competing in feats of strength. Truck tugs will happen on Friday, July 21, and on Thursday, July 27, at 7 p.m. The NTPA Tractor Pull will take place on Saturday, July 22, starting at 7 p.m., while the COTPA Truck Pull is scheduled for Tuesday, July 25, at 7 p.m. All of the tugs and pulls will be held at the grandstand.

5. Kids Day: On Wednesday, July 26, all kids ages 14 and under get in FREE, ride bands are cheaper, and free games for the kids (with prizes!) will be held at the grandstand. In addition, Chris Higbee, country music singer, song writer and fiddle player, gives a free concert at the entertainment tent from 7-9 p.m.

6. Firearms Training Simulator: "The firearms simulator is all new this year and will be brought in by our new sheriff, Deb Burchett," said Blair. "It's an adult-use simulator and is being administered by the D.A.R.E. officers." You can check out the simulator on the midway throughout the fair, from Monday, July 24, to Friday, July 28.

7. 4-H and FFA: "Of course, FFA and 4-H are huge here in Clark County, with many exhibits, shows and participants. We are actually the birthplace of 4-H," said Blair. It's always fun to take the family through the barns to check out the cattle, horses, poultry, swine, sheep, rabbits and more that are participating in the various shows. The sale of champions and live auction will take place on Friday, July 28, in the Champions Center. Click here to download a printable animal show schedule.

8. All Things IH: In the tent by the Youth Building throughout the entire fair, you can take in a unique display of International Harvester (IH) trucks and tractors, ranging from historical models to brand new ones.

9. Music, music, and more music: In the big tent at 7 p.m. each day during the fair, you'll be able to catch unique music acts such as The Temps, Blaine Bowman and His Good Time Band, Above the Law, and LA Band. Click here to see the full music lineup for the week.

10. Digital Fair Book: This year, the Fair Book has gone digital, allowing for the most current information to be maintained on the fair's website. As changes are made by committees, updates will be made on a daily basis. Check it out here, and be sure to bookmark it so that you can check it often.

BONUS: The FOOD! What's a fair without the amazing food? From fair chops, to walking tacos, to frozen lemonade, to funnel cakes, there's bound to be something that will tantalize your taste buds.

The 70th annual Clark County Fair will be open daily, from 8 a.m.-11 p.m., on July 21-28. The midway opens at 12 p.m. Click here for more detailed information on all things fair-related, including specific dates and times for events

0
Comments on this article