From Stock Cars, Blueberry Bars to Joe Nichols the Country Star, the Mighty Howard County Fair revs up

CRESCO — All across Howard County, you can feel it building—the kind of buzz that smells like fresh popped kettle corn, sweetly fried funnel cakes, bbq meat scents in the air with sounds of laughter drifting down the midway. The Mighty Howard County Fair is almost here, and this year it has the beloved classic activities and events mixed in with new refreshing and fun entertainment, from the roar of the grandstand to the giggles in a brand-new kid zone. Get ready because the fair will be here from June 24-28th.

   For the younger crowd, Say hello to Grandpa Tom’s Barne, a fun new attraction designed just for the kiddos. It mixes hands-on learning and good old-fashioned play in an agriculture-based setting. Little fairgoers can meet Maggie the Cow, explore an ag-focused interactive kiosk, dive into a corn play area, and more. Add in the always-popular Nick’s Kids Show—where the kids become the stars with sing-alongs and silly dances—a family-friendly gathering area, a petting zoo, an outdoor play area, and you’ve got a recipe for nonstop smiles. Even better? Grounds events are free fun for all!

   Or are you a thrill seeker who would rather enjoy the rides put on by Evans United Shows? Wrist Band Days this year are planned to be on the following days: Moonlight Mania - Friday night from 6pm - 10pm (In case of inclement weather on Friday, Moonlight Mania will be held on Saturday evening), bands may be used for any rides during Moonlight Mania. On Sunday from 1pm - 5pm there is Family Day on the Midway, the second day that bands may be used for any rides. Of course, if you just want to get a few thrills here and there, you can always purchase individual tickets at any time that the rides are open. 

   Another event new to the fair this year will be ‘Bacon Buddies’, a chance for those with intellectual and/or developmental disabililtys who are between the ages of 10-18 to experience showing a pig. Participants will be paired with two youth mentors and a pig and be judged on how the mentors, participant and pig work together as a cohesive unit. All participants will receieve a prize! This even will take place on the Friday of the fair 

at 9am. To register for this new exciting event contact Mr. Wiley from the Success Team at Howard-Winneshiek CSD and Jr. High Student Council Advisor.

  Tom Barnes, Executive Secretary for The Mighty Howard County Fair spoke about the much anticipated Ag events happening as well, “We have great participation in our swine and dairy heifer program from the youth.” Highlighting a favorite event for many fairgoers.

   Now, let’s talk big nights under the big lights:

Wednesday, 6/24

The grandstand comes alive with Stock Car Races starting at 6:45 pm—grab your seat early and feel the engines rumble. Over at the Expo Pavilion, DJ Dean keeps the summer soundtrack spinning from 8 pm to close.

Grandstand pricing for Wednesday: $15 (14+), $10 (ages 9–13), 8 and under free

 

Thursday, 6/25

The Blue Ribbon Classic takes over the grandstand, with Hot Laps starting at 6:45 pm. The Expo Pavilion 

Grandstand pricing for Thursday: $25 (14+), $10 (ages 9–13), 8 and under free, $30 Pit Pass

 

Friday, 6/26

It’s the always-fun Demolition Derby in the grandstand starting at 7 pm—expect cheers, crunches, and a whole lot of friendly competition. Then, from 9 pm to close, The Punching Pandas make their Fair debut at the Expo Pavilion. They’re one of Des Moines’ best party bands.