By Tracy Ouellette
Staff writer
The Racine County Fair is celebrating a milestone this year, its 100th anniversary.
The annual festival highlights the county’s agriculture and youth with animal shows and auctions, contests and more.
Richelle Kastenson, of the Racine County Fair Board, said the anniversary celebration will see a few changes and expanded offerings.
“There are a lot of new things coming to the 100th Annual Racine County Fair!” she said. “We will have three nights of Tractor and Truck Pulls (Wednesday, Thursday, Friday). Each night will feature different pulling classes. Thursday night will also feature a combine demolition derby at the conclusion of the pulls.”
Cow Town USA is also new to the fair, Kastenson said.
“Fair patrons will get a hands on farm experience when they visit this area,” she added.
To honor the fair’s history, organizers have been collecting artifacts and memorabilia to display.
“Community members and volunteers have been busy working on renovating the Mercantile Building,” Kastenson said. “This building will feature the history of the Racine County Fair.”
Also new this year is the Wine Tasting in the Beer and Wine Garden which will be open Thursday and Saturday.
In celebration of the 100th anniversary, the fair will feature:
- 100th anniversary fair clothing for purchase;
- Fireworks on Saturday, July 30;
- A history of the fair in the Mercantile Building;
- Decorations throughout the grounds;
- Special open class categories for exhibitors; and
- Surprise giveaways at the gates.
Fun for all
“There is something for everyone at the 100th Annual Racine County Fair,: Kastenson said. “Throughout the grounds will be many vendors featuring everyone’s fair food favorites. Be sure to check out the animal barns, as well as youth and open class exhibits. We have two stages featuring live local music every day.”
Children’s Day will be Thursday, July 28, and is filled with activities, Kastenson added. The day offers a kiddie tractor pull, cream puff eating contest and more.
“The grandstand will feature entertainment every night including, truck and tractor pulls, monster trucks, and demolition derby,” Kastenson said. “As always the fair features free entertainment throughout the grounds, including a petting pen, Cow Town USA, Wolves of the World, the Rhinestone Roper, Kids are People Too, All Star Stunt Dogs, bingo and so much more!”
Making memories
Many people can think back to the times they have visited the Racine County Fair and recall memories from their time there.
“The Racine County Fair board continually works together to provide experiences for fairgoers,” Kastenson said. “The fair also showcases the many talents and accomplishments of youth and community members.
The annual event brings the community together while also providing five days of fair fun, Kastenson added.
“We appreciate all the community members, volunteers, exhibitors, vendors, and everyone else in between that allows us to celebrate Racine County annually at the fair. We are very proud of the heritage of the fair, and look forward to the next 100 years,” she continued.
“We cannot wait to see you at the 100th Annual Racine County Fair, July 27 to 31!”
For a full preview of the fair, including events and schedules, see the special section at the following link: Racine County Fair
If you go…
WHAT: 100th Annual Racine County Fair
WHERE: County Fairgrounds, 19805 Durand Ave., Union Grove
WHEN: July 27 to 31
COST: $10 for adults, $8 seniors, $6 kids age 8 to 3, kids 7 and younger admitted free of charge with an adult
INFO: racinecountyfair.com
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