After paying tribute to one of its major boosters, the Davis County Fair opened its doors Thursday for its annual three-day run.
The fair got under way with the dedication of a memorial flagpole and plaque honoring former Commissioner Gerald Purdy, who suffered a major heart attack a year ago to the day. Purdy died three days later.As commissioner, Purdy was in charge of the fair and was responsible for many of the ongoing improvements at the grounds in west Farmington.
This year's fair - based on theme "A Fair to Remember" - includes a variety of 4H and senior citizen exhibits ranging from the fine arts to garden produce.
A category that has picked up interest in the past couple of years is the family garden collection, according to horticulture chairman Helen Criddle.
Families select the best of the fruit and vegetables grown in their home gardens, arrange it into an artful display and enter it in the competition, Criddle said.
The growing interest in that category reflects a new emphasis on making the fair an attractive entertainment event for families, according to fair officials.
This year's entertainment package also reflects the new emphasis. The Joe Muscolino Big Band leads off the free entertainment at 8 p.m. Thursday on the outdoor main stage.
The featured band Friday at 6:30 p.m. is the Powder Ridge Blue Grass Band, followed by Saturday's headliners, the Blue Diamond Western Band.
Another new feature this year is the all-you-can-eat ice cream social, where fairgoers can sample to their heart's content for $1 each between 5 p.m. and 7 p.m. Thursday.
Special events Friday include a continuation of the Commissioners Cup 3 on 3 basketball tournament and demonstrations beginning at 10 a.m. by area EMTs, paramedics, and search and rescue organizations as part of Public Safety Day.
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Additional Information
Davis Fair schedule
Friday, Aug. 19:
(Public Safety Day)
- 8 a.m. - 4H horse show
- 10 a.m. - Exhibits open
Public safety demonstrations
- 11 a.m. - Junior and open dairy show
- 1 p.m. - Commissioners Cup 3 on 3 Basketball
- 2 p.m. - Goat show
- 4 p.m. - 4H Alpha contest
- 6:30-8:30 p.m. - Powder Ridge Blue Grass Band
- 7 p.m. - Mutton busting
- 7:30 p.m. - CRC rodeo
- 10 p.m. - Exhibits close