Suweeeee: Fairs make summer fun
One of the best things about August is that it’s county fair time. These days there’s almost always one of these summer celebrations around somewhere. Hog calling, tractor pulls, blue ribbon pies, prize-winning cows, carnival rides, music and entertainment, cotton candy… It’s all part of the fun. Albemarle’s fair doesn’t come along until the end of the month, but here’s a peek at what’s unique over the next few weeks in the counties that surround us:
Our neighbors to the north in Greene are whooping it up now through Saturday in Stanardsville. Future farmers ages four to eight won’t want to miss the chance to compete in the pedal tractor contest. And amphibian owners under 12 will have the chance to show off their pets’ skills in the frog jumping contest and race. Other attractions include Reptile Adventures, Party Magic, an Exotic Animal show, Plantation Horse Exhibition, and Granpa Cratchet puppets. Music includes bluegrass and gospel.
There’s lots of action at Augusta’s fair, also happening this week. A demolition derby, rodeo, street truck pull, and NASCAR simulator will keep the adrenaline flowing. The Bio-Express display, Ocean in Motion exhibit, and Airmobile offer educational interest for science buffs. And Saturday is bluegrass night with performances by Appalachian Express, Walnut Ridge Boys, Phoenix, and Charlie Waller and the Country Gentlemen.
Rockingham County starts rockin’ next week with the festival the L.A. Times calls “One of America’s best county fairs.” Team Extreme Motorcycle performances take the action spotlight, along with demolition derby, Bobcat rodeo, and a Classic Car Cruise-In. Family fun is everywhere with a petting zoo, Exotic Animal Adventures, Zerbini Circus, a parade every night at 5:30pm, and Family Fun Day Saturday with special discounts. The 58th Virginia Infantry, Company H (Civil War) will be encamped at the fair grounds Friday and Saturday. Entertainment includes Christian rock, country music, and Appalachian clogging.
The Greene County Fair happens in Stanardsville on Rt. 230 August 6-10, Tuesday-Friday 5:30-11pm, Saturday 1-11pm. $4 for adults, $2 kids and seniors. 985-8282. greenecountyfair.tripod.com.Augusta County Fair is at Expoland in Fishersville (exit 91 off I-64 west) August 6-10, noon-11pm. $4 adults, $2 kids up to 16, under 6 free. 540-241-4667. augustacountyfair.com/acfair. Rockingham County Fair will be held at the County Fair Grounds (I-81 exit 240, north on Rt. 11) August 12-17. See website for show times and prices. 540-434-0005. rockinghamcountyfair.com.