Lebowski’s hosts Winter County Fair

Saturday night saw the return of the Washington County Winter Fair, with nearly 80 participants turning out to Lebowski’s Rock n Bowl for a social evening with proceeds benefiting the Washington County Fair Association and Washington County 4-H.

“It’s an adults only, it’s a night out, we have a catered meal and then this year we’re doing a dessert auction and a 50/50 raffle,” said event volunteer Janelle Johnson.

While “adults only” isn’t usually a focus of the Washington County Fair, Janelle said it gave many participants a chance to get together that they don’t normally get in the summer.

“It’s a chance for the adults to relax and just enjoy each others’ company,” she said. “A lot of times during the fair you don’t get that chance as a parent … to interact with other parents at the fair. You’re worried about livestock or kids’ projects or you name it. You’re just busy.”

Johnson added that the party was a way to close out winter, a less busy time of year for many 4-H families.

“We’re right on the brink of spring coming in, winter’s basically behind us,” she said. “It’s a good chance for people to get out, especially this year. We weren’t able to have it last year for COVID, so it’s just a good reason to get out.”

The fundraising itself benefits many of the kids at the fair each year.

“There’s a bill that trickles down the line for kids to be involved,” said ISU Youth Extension Coordinator Amy Green. “Instead of us putting that bill on our 4-H’ers we try hard to fundraise to bring that cost down.”

Comments: Kalen.McCain@southeastiowaunion.com