As July gets under way, so does preparation of projects to be entered into the Fremont County Fair. Fair dates this year are July 26th through August 4th. The Shooting Sports Competition occurs on weekends starting July 13th. The 10 days of fun and excitement that make up the Fair start with a Junior Rodeo that includes Mutton Bustin’, Mini Bronc Riding, Mini Bull Riding, Barrel Racing and Calf Scramble on Friday July 26th at Pathfinder Park. Saturday July 27th, the official start of the fair begins at 8:30 with a ribbon cutting ceremony at Pathfinder Park, followed by a Horse show and an evening Ranch Rodeo. The public is invited to attend all events.
The Fair in full swing includes Horses, Pigs, Cattle, Sheep, Goats, Chickens and Rabbits and so much more. You don’t have to be in 4-H or FFA to enter crafts, baked goods, art and produce in the open division. There are categories for everyone. On August 2nd, in honor of our Senior Citizens a complimentary breakfast of biscuits and gravy will be served to individuals over the age of 65 on a first come, first served basis. The Beta Zeta Sorority and the Fremont County Fair Board sponsor the event. 4-H Ambassadors will be available to visit with seniors and offer tours of the fair. Don’t miss Family Day starting at 10 that same day. Colorado Country Music Association artists will be performing for your enjoyment August 2nd and 3rd. There will be many fun filled days at the fair.
Fremont County has 15 4-H clubs with over 250 members who work all year on projects to participate in the County Fair. Some have multiple projects which keep them busy while learning. The Florence FFA Chapter also has some members who participate in the Fair.
4-H Clubs have adult leaders who guide and mentor members. 4‑H has opened the door for young people to learn leadership skills and revolutionized how youth connected to practical, hands-on learning experiences outside the classroom. 4-H and its success could not be achieved without the many volunteers who work hours throughout the year as Club Leaders, Fair Board, Sale Committee, Project Leaders and anywhere else they are needed. CSU Extension agents and staff work tirelessly to make sure all programs and events are successful. I can’t thank the parents and volunteers enough for their hard work. Congratulations to the youth for a successful year!
The fair wraps up on August 4th, known as “Buyers’ Day”. Starting at noon, the Parade of Champions Award Ceremony will take place under the entertainment tent, followed by the Buyers’ Barbeque at 3:00 p.m. Anyone interested in buying an animal from Fair Auction is invited to attend the BBQ with tickets for sale at the door. After the 4-H Family of the Year is announced, the livestock sale begins. The money raised by the 4-Hers through the sale of their animals is used to pay project costs and, many times, to help with continuing education.
Anyone interested in participating in the open division can find information and entry forms at https://fremont.extension.colostate.edu/programs/fremont-county-fair/. Information of all Fair events and times can be found at http://fremontcountyfair.com/fairevents.shtml.
Ill see you at the Fair!
Dwayne McFall
Fremont County Commissioner District 3