For most, the fair is something they have grown up around. It is a place where Mom and Dad could take you to look at the animals, get some food, play games, and just spend some quality time with one another. I am positive that almost everyone can share at least one, “Remember that one year at the fair …” story. Including myself.
I spoke with several people at the fair who were traveling from Florida, Alabama, and even New England just to come to this fair because, “You can’t beat the experience of coming to The Darke County Fair.” Not only is it great to bring everyone together at this time, but with all the new travelers, businesses around Darke County are booming with new customers! Most of the people that I spoke with gushed about the wonderful memories they have made over the years, and I wish to give a big thanks to all of those on the fair board who spend countless hours making that happen.Without you, none of this would be possible.
There have been several new additions to the fair this year including the new cow barn and metal wagons called “people movers” to bring people into the fair. It’s no wonder why it is called The GREAT Darke County Fair. I was wowed by both upon my arrival, but I was very impressed when I stepped into the new barn! It is so spacious and cool, and I talked with many people in the barn who have said what an improvement it is, and how grateful they are to have it.
With everything in life, there are going to be changes, but there will also be those “constants.” Those things you can always count on to be the same. In a way, this is my favorite part about the fair. It always has the same sights, sounds, smells, and feeling when you are there. I love that I can always count on getting my favorite fair time foods and knowing that the vendor will be in the same spot as last year. It makes it feel homier knowing exactly where everything is and knowing what to expect.
On the flip-side, some people may say, “If you have been to the fair once, you’ve been there a million times,” and I think this statement is completely false. Sure the same events take place and the fair pretty much looks the same from year to year, but in thirty years will you remember exactly what there was to see at the fair? No. You will remember the memories that you made and the people that you shared them with. This is what matters most. If it has been going on for 158 years, obviously they are doing something right.
So, pack up the family and head on down to the fairgrounds and enjoy yourselves! The fair wraps up on Saturday so be sure to make your plans soon! When you come, be sure to drop by The Darke County Visitors Bureau booth located in the Coliseum. I hope to see you all there.
Wishing you fun times and safe travels,
Baleigh