Memories await at the 70th annual county fair
By Allyson Dix, Managing Editor / Barren County Progress
The 70th annual Barren County Fair is just around the corner. Aerial photo courtesy of the Temple Hill Lions Club.
The last days of June are upon us, and this time of year is a tradition for county fairs. The Barren County Fair is set and preparing for patrons from near and far. The Temple Hill Lions Club is once again tasked with planning and executing the events at the Temple Hill Fairgrounds, something the Club has done for decades.
While the county fair, which is in its 70th year, has taken on different locations and sponsorships in Barren County including American Legion Park in Glasgow and the old raceway on 68/80, the current fairgrounds have been the location for the fair for many years, sponsored by the Temple Hill Lions Club.
The fair will see some new events to the lineup this year, according to the Barren County Fair Manager William Myatt.
“We are excited about some changes to the lineup this year,” Myatt said. “We are bringing the rodeo back to the fair for the first time in several years to open the fair on Tuesday night.”
Another new event, Myatt said, is the Miss and Mr. Amazing Barren County pageant for those with special needs or disabilities.
The fairgrounds have also seen some cosmetic changes including new aluminum bleachers and work to the demolition derby arena, Myatt shared.
“We feel like our lineup and facilities are the best they have been and that there is something for everyone to enjoy,” Myatt said. “The fair is our largest fundraiser every year, and we look forward to welcoming a huge crowd this year.”
Last year, weather events took a toll on the fair’s schedule with some nights forced to cancel. “We certainly hope the weather is kinder to us this year,” Myatt said.
Temple Hill Lion Club member James Bailey, who serves as the club’s Public Relations Chair and a former fair manager, recalls some of the memories of fairs around the county in days gone by.
“Over 30 years ago, the Temple Hill Lions Club took over the county fair and we’ve had it ever since,” Bailey said.
Despite the Club taking the lead on the fair, Bailey said many community members, both club members and non-members, help with the county fair.
“We try to involve the community as much as we can and the community is very good to us,” Bailey said.
Growing up, Bailey said his favorite times at the fair were the carnival rides before reflecting on the carnivals at other fair locations.
As always, there is something for everyone who attends. From agricultural events and competitive games to pageants, fair food, entertainment, and carnival rides, the Barren County Fair will provide another fun year for families.
Barren County Judge/Executive Jamie Bewley Byrd encourages everyone to visit the Temple Hill Fairgrounds for this year’s fair.
“I encourage all to come and support the Barren County Fair,” Byrd said. “It offers numerous events and great rides.”
“Come make memories at the Barren County Fair!” Byrd added.
More information is printed about the Barren County Fair including a full schedule in this week’s publication of the Barren County Progress.
