The Merced County Fair will pay tribute to the area’s rich agricultural history by “Saluting Our Farmers and Ranchers” June 11-15.
The fair’s five day run will feature a bevy of exhibits, events, and entertainment that pay homage to the individuals who till the soil and raise the livestock.
“The theme will be seen throughout the fair,” said Merced County Fair Market Manager Diane B. Conway. “It’s a tip of our hat to our farming community.”
A new tradition to the fair that has become increasingly popular over the last few years is the tractor parade that kicks off each day’s activities at the fair.
“It’s something to get everything going and for some people it’s the first time they’ve seen a tractor in motion,” Conway said. “Some of the tractors in the parade are really vintage ones that you don’t see very often.”
New to the Merced County Fair this year is the farm junk sculpture contest. Creative types were invited to turn the flotsam and jetsam from their yards and barns into a work of art. The fair will hold a “People’s Choice” awards so fairgoers can vote on their favorite sculptures. The first place winner will receive $300, the second place prize is $150 and the third place winner will get $75. The winners will be announced the last evening of the fair.
“This contest is going to be a lot of fun,” said Tom Musser, the fair’s CEO. “We have so many creative people in our community, we can’t wait to see what they will do.”
Of course, no fair would be complete without a thrilling line-up of entertainment. This year the Merced County Fair is bringing Christian musician Lincoln Brewster, the Marshall Tucker Band, and War to the stage among other acts. The entertainment is included with the price of admission.
Merced County Fair
WHEN:June 11-15
WHERE:900 Martin Luther King Jr. Way, Merced
PRICE:$5 general admission, children 5 and under free each day. Check http://www.mercedcountyfair.com for promotions and deals
