Culture
Albany Independent Fair Begins Wednesday
By: Sara Brumfield | Athens Messenger
Posted on:
The Albany Independent Fair is returning to the Albany Fairgrounds this week with a full lineup of livestock judging, derbies, entertainment and pageants.
The fair, which began in 1966, will kick off on Wednesday and run through Sunday, Sept. 7.
Fair Board Vice President Kim Kyle said that while some of the contests and activities are open to the general public, many of the livestock and agriculture competitions are reserved for students who live in or attend the Alexander Local School District.
Kyle said the independent fair board tries to provide the best entertainment it can and offer activities for everyone.
“We try to give everybody something to get involved in,” he said.
According to Kyle, the amusement rides will be better than in previous years.
In addition to livestock and agriculture judging, Wednesday’s schedule includes a performance by the Alexander Band at 6 p.m. with the crowning of the Albany Independent Fair Queen, Jr. Miss and Little Miss. At 7 p.m., there will be an ATV Rodeo, baked goods auction and tractor tug pull.
Thursday’s activities include a music performance by Country Sunshine at 7 p.m. and the tractor and truck pull, also at 7 p.m.
The Outlaw Lawnmower Derby will take place on Friday at 6 p.m., followed by the demolition derby and stringed instrument contest at 7 p.m.
The garden tractor pull for Alexander students will begin at 9 a.m. on Saturday. The garden tractor pull open to the public (adults and youth) will be held immediately following the pretty child contest, which is slated for 11 a.m. Saturday.
At 1 p.m. on Saturday will be the pet show and stuffed pet show for Alexander students. A tractor, truck and garden tractor pull will begin at 4 p.m. on Saturday. The musical entertainment on Saturday will be provided by Rarely Herd at 7 p.m.
The last day of the Albany Independent Fair will begin with the horse show at 9 a.m. The Albany Independent Fair Parade will travel through Albany on Sunday beginning at noon, featuring the color guard and Alexander Marching Band. Introduction of visiting royalty will be held following the parade.
Sunday is also known as Fun Day at the fair. Sponsored by the Alexander FFA and Hocking Valley Bank, a variety of activities for all ages will be held on the stage following the introduction of visiting royalty and prizes and awards will be given out.
At 1:30 p.m. will be the royalty luncheon, followed by the pedal tractor pull at 3 p.m. The fair will conclude with a prize drawing at 4 p.m. on the stage (must be present to win).
For information about the Albany Independent Fair, visit www.albanyfair.org.