Chronicle Editorial

Fair time fun in Franklin County

     Saddle up Franklin County, because it’s time for this year’s fair!

     It’s hard to believe fair week is already here. Summer has flown by fast so far, and this is just another reminder that its days are numbered. But we welcome it with open arms nonetheless. The Franklin County Fair is highly anticipated by both local residents and visitors alike, and it’s sure to deliver five days of fun for the entire family this week.

     This year’s schedule provides numerous opportunities to get out of the house and hit up the fairgrounds July 16-20. An excellent entertainment lineup is poised to deliver crowd-pleasing shows all week, and there’s bound to be something to satisfy everyone’s tastes.

     The ever-popular Barnes PRCA Rodeo kicks things off Wednesday night and will be followed by the lawn mower, go cart and four-wheeler races Thursday. Country music favorite Sawyer Brown takes the stage Friday night and will be followed by up-and-coming Nashville stars Danielle Bradbery and The Swon Brothers. The busy week wraps up Sunday night with the Figure 8 and Cruiser Races, which is sure to draw favorable crowds of all ages.

     The rodeo, concerts and races are the exclamation points for each day during the fair, but they’re by no means the only thing happening. Many other exhibits and events are planned Wednesday through Sunday for fairgoers both young and old. Grandpa’s Farm gives younger visitors a blast from the past as they learn old farming techniques, and the Franklin Farm Hands teaches children the importance of agriculture in their daily lives. Additionally, things like the hypnotist, carnival, Elephant Encounters, fair queen contest and the Sunday worship service give guests something to look forward to each and every day.

     Of course, entertainment is only one piece of the county fair pie. Agriculture is the real reason for the season, and our local fair would be lacking without it. Young 4-H and FFA members spend numerous hours preparing their exhibits and raising their livestock throughout the year. Whether it’s a blue ribbon arts and craft display or a prize-winning steer, these exhibitors should be praised for their dedication and interest in agriculture.

     All of these events wouldn’t be possible without the hard work and dedication of the Franklin County Fair Board and fair staff. Most visitors probably don’t realize the monumental amount of effort put into each fair, but it shouldn’t go unnoticed. Countless hours of preparation, planning and careful oversight go into making this event one of the best county fairs in north central Iowa and the entire state. Without these dedicated individuals, the Franklin County Fair wouldn’t be the spectacle it’s become year in and year out.

     Franklin County will be a fun and exciting place during the next five days. The forecast looks great for the most part, which a nice change of pace from most years. Scorching temps and heavy humidity typically greet fairgoers each July. That doesn’t appear to be the case this year, and local residents should take advantage.

     So what are you waiting for? Head out to the Franklin County Fairgrounds and enjoy the next five days to the fullest – you won’t regret it!