Henry County Fair begins Wednesday

MT. PLEASANT — The Henry County Fair began to assemble early Tuesday evening with crews working to set up livestock stalls, the stadium and more at McMillan park.

This weekend will be packed full of exciting activities. This comes a year after the 2020 fair was closed to the public entirely and restrictions were placed on those participating, according to Henry County Extension 4-H Director Erin Heaton.

The fair just was not the same, she said.

"Last year with COVID and everything there was a limited number of people that we're allowed to see the showings,“ Heaton said. ”Not having an audience see their work really affected the kids.”

Last year was not only limited but many events like the queen contest, the carnival and all other public performances besides livestock judging were canceled.

Now with the fair proceedings set in place it is becoming real for Heaton.

“It has exciting to be back to almost normal and be able to have people come out and see their hard work,” Heaton said.

The big events Wednesday include the queen contest at 7:30 p.m. in the Wright Pavilion, with five contestants: Alexandra Farley, Kaityln Lee, Maddie Anderson, Allie McArtor and Haley Rohdy.

The current reigning queen from 2019 is Sophie Lounsbury.

On Thursday, 4-H and FFA kids prepare to compete in the many livestock shows over the weekend. Some start on Thursday but the most livestock shows are over the weekend.

Other entertainment for the weekend includes the IFPA Truck and Tractor Pull on Friday at 6:30 p.m., the demolition derby and beer garden on Saturday, and a barbecue contest on Sunday.