Recapping the Henry County Fair

The Henry County Fair began on Sunday, July 13 with the Horse Show. The Silver Spurs provided a traditional start with the presentation of flags and proceeded to show their horses and ponies. Everything equine was enjoyed by all.

Beginning at 9 a.m. was wise as it was a hot day. Safety of the horses and people are foremost in the goals of the Silver Spurs. Monday would be devoted to getting the livestock areas set up. Comfortable pens in all the barns were built with areas for feed and clean bedding close by. Washing areas for all the animal varieties were prepared. Of course, the ever important waste disposal was arranged and equipped. The 4-H members are proud of the fact there is very little odor in their barns.

Tuesday was devoted to Static exhibit judging. The year’s work of each competitor would be examined and discussed. Communication has become an important part of exhibition. A written description of the project is required. Additionally, exhibitors visit with their judges and answer 3 questions: What did you plan or learn to do? (What was your exhibit goal?); What steps did you take to learn or do this? And What were the most important things you learned?

Judges help exhibitors with constructive advice and encouragement. The project areas of Ag & Natural Resources, Animals, Creative Arts, Family Consumer Science, Personal Development and STEM have many sub-divisions. There are no limits to the ideas one may generate and develop to enhance learning and have fun.

Wednesday welcomed the livestock. Check In requires many of the animals to be weighed. Specific times are designated for each species. By the end of the afternoon, the grounds are ready to welcome the Community Farmers Market.

The fun began at 4:30 with the Poultry, Calf, Sheep & Goat Costume Contest. The Pedal Pull followed at 6 p.m. The evening continued with the announcement of the State Fair entries, the conservation awards and the Hall of Fame recipient. The Queen, Jr Queen and Princess introductions, public interviews and selection completed the evening. An exceptional number of lovely young ladies participated in the Princess selection.

On Thursday the Clover Kids and Open Class exhibit judging occurred. The older 4-H members act as judges for the Clover Kids. This gives them the opportunity to practice the skills learned as they were being judged Tuesday. The LEGO judging also occurred. This is one of the newer competitions enjoyed by kids and LEGO enthusiasts. It seems strange to say newer when the first plastic LEGO was patented in 1958.

A break in the weather helped the Bill Riley Talent Show and the outdoor movie create a pleasant end to the day. Friday was an interesting day with Livestock Shows, Working Exhibits, Share the Fun and Clover Kids graduation. Grandstand entertainment by Tigirlily and Aaron Tippin finished the day to send everyone home in an agreeable mood.

Rain late Friday and early Saturday did not hinder any of the Saturday activities planned. The popular Kids Activities took place as scheduled. A little mud was added to the Foam Blaster fun. The kids certainly didn’t notice that. The Farmers Market took place alongside the wonderful breakfasts. Sunday release of livestock and exhibits began. The day still included fun activities. Bingo, the Farm Bureau BBQ contest and Adult Bags Tournament were enjoyed by many.

The Wine and Home Brew Contest was held at 2 p.m. The grounds were beginning to look deserted as the 4-H and FFA members ensured every barn was spotless. And ready for the ribbon auction on Monday. There is no end to the number of organizations and companies who deserve to be thanked. Farm families particularly appreciated the food provided to help them through the busy days.

On Thursday, 5-6:30 p.m. the Farm Family Appreciation meal provided a break. A busy day of showing, cleaning and helping followed by a full evening of activities needed a pleasant sit-down meal, relaxing and visiting with friends. Friday began with a Farm Services and Agriland breakfast. For many families, Fair means early mornings getting chores done at home and on the farm, then beginning the schedule.

Breakfast on-site was a real plus. Saturday, Sinclair Tractor served breakfast and began a day with few breaks. On Monday KILJ served a breakfast.

One cannot say enough about the Iowa State Extension and Outreach puts in countless hours preparing for the Fair. The staff was everywhere ensuring the success of each activity. 4-H and FFA leaders deserve several gold medals for their dedicated service year in and year out to the students and the organizations.

They certainly “Walk the Talk” Head, Heart, Hands, Health. 159 years have passed since the first recorded Henry County Fair. The 2025 Henry County Fair continues the tradition of providing a quality county-wide event.