Winnebago Co. Fair kicks off July 18

The Winnebago County Fair in Thompson kicks off Thursday July 18. There is a little something for everybody. Thursday is a busy day for the 4H and FFA youth, as their exhibits are checked in, livestock weighed, and static exhibits are judged.
The Little Miss and Fair Queen Coronation takes place on the open stage beginning at 6 p.m. Come early and get a ribeye steak hot off the grill at the fair board’s fundraiser meal, serving at 5 p.m. until gone. Stay late for The Johnny Holm Band live in the grandstand. The beer garden opens at 7 p.m., featuring beer and mixed drinks, and the concert starts at 8 p.m..
After a very entertaining show in 2018, Dairyland Donkey Races return for an encore at 7 p.m. in the grandstand. Teams of five riders are welcome again this year, so if you are 16 years old or older, 225 lbs. and under, contact the fair by messaging them on Facebook, or contact any fair board member. Help the fair convince local “celebrities” to ride this year. This is an experience both the audience and riders will never forget.
The Grand River Rodeo returns for Saturday night at 7 p.m. The rodeo is always one of the most popular events at the fair and never disappoints. It is a great event for all ages.
Sunday is a very busy day to cap off the fair. Fair parade at 1:30 p.m. Does a demo derby ever go out of style? We don’t think so and its back again on Sunday at 4:30 p.m., along with the lawnmower derby. Beer garden will be open.
We also have a good line up of free and fun family entertainment. Pat Doyle returns to do chainsaw carvings on Friday and Saturday and will again auction off eight carvings, with proceeds going back to the fair.
Robbin’s blacksmithing will be on hand, demonstrating talents in metal work. Caricatures by Casey is new this year, come and get your free caricature Saturday and Sunday.
Peter Bloedel returns Saturday night with his perpetual vaudeville act.
Zoops balloon art will be here Sunday, during and after the parade, to entertain the kids with balloon animals and will have a balloon workshop on the open stage.
Come hungry to this year’s fair, as they have a revamped line up of food vendors. Smoking Joe’s BBQ, Ole and Lena’s cheese curds and onion rings, and more, El Jefe Mexican, pork chop on a stick, bacon wrapped jalapeno poppers, ribeye steak fundraiser, Boy Scout stand, Lion’s Club stands, and more.
It’s a great year to come to the fair. Come support the 4H and FFA youth and recognize their hard work and achievements.
For a full fair schedule and more details visit winnebagocoiowafair.com or find them on Facebook.