The Benton County Fair arrives next week with entertainment, rides, competitions and exhibits over a four-day stretch of Aug. 2-5.
Tomi Douglas, Benton County Natural Areas Parks and Event director, said she believes the fair holds a special place in the hearts of community members.
“This year’s fair will highlight our community spirit with a commitment to providing a safe and enjoyable experience for everyone,” she said.
Each day’s activities run from 11 a.m.-10 p.m. Admission at the gate is $10 (ages 17-59) or $5 (ages 6-16 and 60 and older). Children ages 5 and under are free. Tickets can be purchased online before Aug. 2 at a discount. The west and south parking areas have a $5 per day parking fee.
The Benton County Fairgrounds are located at 110 SW 53rd St., in Corvallis.
The schedule includes (daily fair schedules are available online):
• Evening concerts — Scheduled to perform on the main stage are Radical Revolution (Aug. 2, 6:30 p.m.), Remedy (Aug. 3, 7 p.m.), Chayce Beckham (Aug. 3, 8:30 p.m.), Kurt Van Meter (Aug. 4, 7 p.m.), LANCO (Aug. 4, 8:30 p.m.), Back in Black AC/DC Tribute (Aug. 5, 7 p.m.) and Mr. Speed Kiss Tribute (Aug. 5, 8:30 p.m.). Concerts are free with fair admission.
• Entertainment — The Oak Grove Stage will be the site of several performances on Wednesday, Thursday, Friday and Saturday.
• Carnival — Rainier Amusements will be on site with a variety of rides and games. Wristbands for unlimited rides or individual tickets are available for purchase.
• Livestock exhibits and competitions: 4-H livestock exhibits and competitions will be featured and additional activities include a horse fair, archery and the Lee Allen Memorial Youth Market Auction.
• Rodeo — The Benton County Fair Rodeo will feature performances at 7 p.m. Thursday and 7 p.m. Friday. An all-girls rodeo is scheduled for 7 p.m. Wednesday.
• Food and drink — Food vendors will be operating to offer everything from classic fair favorites to international cuisines. Benton Oaks Taphouse will be located in the oak grove and has partnered with 4 Spirits Distillery with craft brews, ciders and spirits available.
• Art and craft exhibitions — Local artisans, crafters, gardeners and bakers will display their works, including quilts, paintings, flowers, pies, vegetables and more.
• Family Fun Zone — Families will find a wide range of activities, including interactive games, educational exhibits and fun challenges. The Funporium in the Central Plaza will feature robotics, train displays and shopping. The Backyard and Puzzlemania will have a kids interactive area with several activities.
• Performers — Those scheduled to be on side include Sterling the Bubblesmith (bubbles), Coventry & Kaluza (harmonica, juggling, hula hoops and more) and “Whistling” Mitch Hider, fair emcee.
For a rundown of all the activities, visit the fair’s website.