County fairs are as much of an American summer tradition as baseball, cookouts, and homemade ice cream. While most county fairs are full of rickety rides, and games with stuffed animal prizes, the Cleburne County Fair is a genuine county fair that is sure to offer a memorable family experience.
Helfin City Clerk Shane Smith says his community is excited to be bringing back the traditional-style fair along with a professional rodeo and three concert stages on August 11 and 12.
“The fair started out four years ago as a small way to raise funds for our chamber of commerce, but it’s grown into a huge event that people from miles around come to be a part of,” says Smith.
Headlining the concert lineup is up-and-coming country music star Riley Green.
“Everybody loved Riley Green last year, so we wanted to bring him back this year as our headline performer,” says Smith.
Visitors can also enjoy the rodeo both nights. The rodeo features bronc and bull riding, as well as many other exciting events for the family to enjoy. Rodeo tickets are $10 per person.
“In addition to our concert and rodeo, we have all the attractions that you used to find at an old-fashioned fair,” says Smith. “We have lots of contests for farm animals, tractors, canned goods, plants, and lots of other things that people can get a shot to win a blue-ribbon in.”
The fair will include a farm-raised chicken auction featuring chickens that have been raised over the summer by local children.
Not everything at the fair will be old-fashioned. Visitors can ride a zip-line over the fairgrounds, or take part in climbing the rock wall. Smith said there will be many other fun activities to do like horseback riding, a petting zoo, facepainting and more. Children are also invited to take part in the archery and bb-gun shooting range at the fair.
Visitors also need to bring an appetite to the fair as there will be a wide variety of vendors offering up famous southern-fried dishes, and delicious treats.
“We will have lots of different folks here serving some really good food,” says Smith. “One vendor has some of the best fried catfish you’ll ever eat, and there’s also the famous ‘barbecue in a cup’ that I highly recommend. There will also be the grilled-cheese doughnuts that everybody loved last year. Needless to say, there will be plenty of food.”
Smith says to bring in your Cleburne County photos for the fair’s photo contest, which will feature different categories.
The three stages will have shows everyone can enjoy.
“One stage will be designated for Gospel music groups, another will have things for kids like magic show, and a pet show, and things like that. Then, we will of course be having our main concert stage with some great bands, and also Riley Green.
Smith noted that the event is family-friendly and alcohol is prohibited.
“This is a great family event that is a way to give back to and support your community,” said Smith. “We invite you to come out and see what a real county fair experience is like.”
To find out more, call 256-463-2222 or visit the Cleburne County Fair and Rodeo Facebook page.
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