Fair Enough
The county fair season is a wonderful time of year, filled with strong emotions, hard work and plenty of show-ring drama. With so many things to look forward to, I decided to compile my own list of top 10 things I love about county fairs.
1. Reunion of rural neighbors—The county fair is a wonderful occasion for farm families to catch up while watching their children show livestock. The 4-H'ers also look forward to getting together and hanging out in the livestock barns.
2. Climactic event—The county fair represents the biggest week of summer for 4-H'ers. Youths spend countless hours working with their animals, with the goal of having them reach market weight by fair week. When the big week finally arrives, those 4-H'ers will have the satisfaction of seeing their hard work pay off.
3. City-farm interactions—Last year at the Elkhart County 4-H Fair, kids tried their hand at milking a cow. For many, it was the first time they had ever been that close to a cow, and they walked away with a coupon for a free ice cream cone. It doesn't get any better than that!
4. Community support—Every time I go to a fair, I see civic groups, nonprofit organizations, youth groups and others having a presence at the fair. It might be a booth in the commercial tent or people marching in the parade. The county fair provides an opportunity for those groups to express pride in their community.
5. Giving back—Through the 4-H auction, the community can help launch young people on an educational or career path. It warms my heart to see supporters get behind them. It's also special to see former 4-H'ers come back and return the favor for the next generation.
6. Unique events—Every county fair is special in its own way. Some may be small affairs with 4-H judging and not much else. Other fairs might bring in the masses with carnival rides and big-name entertainers. I appreciate the authenticity.
7. Local entertainers—I enjoy seeing local talent on display at county fairs. It might be someone singing the oldies or an ensemble of musicians playing familiar tunes. These acts provide a home-town flavor.
8. The 4-H auction—At nearly every county fair I attend, I observe young 4-H'ers fighting tears as they part ways with their beloved 4-H animals. To me, that is evidence of a special bond that developed over the summer.
9. The food—Who doesn't love a good elephant ear, corn dog or deep-fried Oreos? Many of these foods are available only once a year. Some people get excited about which foods they will try. I feel that way, too, although I must admit the excitement wears off after the fourth or fifth fair.
10. Frozen in time—Many county fairs are like time capsules. People who were in 4-H several decades ago can remember showing livestock in the same arena. The fair is a constant in a world of change.