‘Coming back in force this year’

The 2021 Washington County Fair kicks off Sunday, and everyone is excited to have a full fair this year.

Last year, the COVID-19 pandemic forced organizers to limit the fair to exhibitors and their families only.

“We have high expectations for a great crowd,” Fair Board President John Wagner said. “We’re extremely excited for this year’s fair.”

He said that he is especially excited for the youth exhibitors.

“Our main focus is the kids,” Wagner said. “This year, we know they’re all excited to be back to normal and to be able to see their friends.

“Last year, they missed that weeklong experience of being at the fair and being with friends.”

Amy Green, 4-H/youth coordinator for the Washington County Extension, said that lots of kids have signed up to show their projects at this year’s fair.

“Based on the number of kids signing up and participation in events this spring and summer, people are excited to see the fair come back to normal,” Green said. “There’s a rejuvenated energy, and they’re coming back in force this year.”

The 4-H/FFA livestock shows draw many entrants and big crowds.

“Washington County is always above the bar when it comes to participation numbers,” Green said.

On Tuesday, the sheep show gets underway at 8:30 a.m., and the rabbit show starts at 9 a.m. The horse and pony show rounds out the morning at 11 a.m.

The dairy cattle show will be at 2 p.m., Tuesday, followed by the breeding beef show at 4 p.m. and the poultry show at 5:30 p.m.

Wednesday begins with the swine show at 8 a.m., with the bucket bottle calf show at 3 p.m.

The market beef show kicks off Thursday at 8 a.m.

On Friday morning, exhibitors will have the opportunity to sell their award-winning projects at the livestock auction, which begins at 8:30 a.m.

Wagner said that this year’s fair will feature several new acts.

The Peterson Farm Brothers from Kansas will perform their parody music act at the Washington Community Center at 4 p.m. and 7 p.m., Thursday, July 22.

Illusionist and escape artist Josh Knotts will perform two shows a day, Monday through Thursday at the Community Center.

The Ax Women Loggers of Maine will display their skills in the commercial exhibit hall several times during the week.

In addition to the new acts, there will be several familiar features.

The Sept. 11 memorial exhibit is returning this year.

Grandstand shows include the tractor-truck pull on Monday, the Grand River Rodeo on Tuesday and the demolition derby on Wednesday.

The carnival makes its return this year, as well.

A $20 wristband can be purchased for unlimited rides. Individual tickets will be available for $1 each. Rides range from two to six tickets per ride.