The Barton County Fair officially starts Wednesday, July 5, although pre-fair events are already underway.

We’re excited to see a carnival back at the Great Bend Expo for this year’s fair. This is also when months of effort on the part of 4-Hers are in the spotlight. For several years now, the annual event has also been an open-class fair, which means that anyone in the county – young or old – is welcome to enter a sample of their handiwork.

The 2023 fair book explains it this way:

"Are you ready to show off what you have been working on? Barton County Fair is the perfect place for you! We host an annual event that celebrates the farmers, artisans, and makers of our community.

"From baking to woodworking to livestock, you can bring your projects to the fair and compete with others in friendly competition. Whether you’re a first-time exhibitor or a veteran, all are welcome to join us and show off their hard work."

The categories and requirements can be found in the fair book. The online version is at bartoncountyfair.com.

A fun category is for the 2023 Theme Classes. (The theme is Country Pride - County Wide). If you have vintage fishing poles or tackle, there is a spot for your entry – and be sure to attach a 3x5 card telling about it. The People’s Choice contest in the Theme Classes is for the best “ugly wore-out pair of work boots.” You know there’s a story behind those!

Just remember, we’re down to the last minutes to get your projects and entries ready for display. All entries (except perishables) must be checked on Wednesday morning. Open-class foods, gardening, crops and flowers will be checked in Thursday morning, July 6.

From set-up to tear-down, the Barton County Fair is meant to show Country Pride, County Wide, so check it out.