Jade Patterson harvests some carrots during her adventure in the Farm to Market Driving Course.

By Deb Patterson
InkFreeNews

GOSHEN — Rain. Storms. High temperatures. Mother Nature went 0-for-3 in her attempts to dampen the opportunity to have “Fun At Every Turn” at the Elkhart County 4-H Fair.

The fair began Friday, July 22, and is in its fourth day of activities.

Thousands enjoyed opening day with the $5 admission, various food vendors offering $5 meals, and for those who love amusement rides, it was wristband day. Many of the fairgoers visited Heritage Park where various organizations presented information and games focusing on the day’s theme — “Green Earth Education Day.”

Kylin Wuthrich keeps an eye on the judge during the Dairy Calf Feeder Steer Senior Showman competition Monday morning.

The crowds returned Saturday, although possibly not as strong, for the Hometown Hero Day. Due to the threat of thunderstorms, the opening of the fair was delayed several hours. The sky cleared and the sun came out with plenty of activities and sights to see. Fire Department displays at Heritage Park caught the attention of many youngsters, and many attended the recognition and honor given to veterans.

Even Sunday morning’s rain didn’t hamper those faithfully attending the morning Mass at Heritage Park, or lining the streets to await the annual fair parade, preceded by the annual fair road race. By noon rain clouds moved away and the sun once again shined on the Elkhart County Fair.

The fairgrounds were filled Sunday with families and people of all ages, from all over the area, visiting the commercial exhibits, seeing the animals and enjoying rides, as admission was free. Trams and shuttles in the large parking area were kept hopping.

Large groups descended upon the fair Monday for the Disabilities and Special Groups Day. It was also the day for a number of livestock shows.

The fair continues through Saturday, July 30, with plenty of activities happening daily, entertainment at numerous places throughout the fair and nightly grandstand entertainment. Don’t forget to see the thousands of 4-H exhibits in the 4-H building and catch a 4-H livestock show in one of the three show arenas.

While you’re out at the fair, make sure to stop in at the Home and Family Arts Building. While there are numerous displays of items created by non-4-H members, there is also a silent auction underway. Look through the 68 items donated for the event. The proceeds will go to the Elkhart County Extension Homemakers to be used for various local projects.

Among the items for the silent auction is a dollhouse; paintings; numerous themed baskets, including some for kids and men; pillowcases; lap blankets; gift cards; games; and a lot more.

A fair program and more information can be found at 4hfair.org.