Washington County Fair a big draw

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The last two years haven't been easy on the Washington County Fair Board.

In 2019, they faced record flooding that inundated the fairgrounds with several feet of water and damaged buildings just months before it was supposed to be filled with animals, 4-H youth and fairgoers.

With the help of hundreds of volunteers, the fairgrounds were restored and the fair went on.

In the midst of the pandemic in 2020, the Fair Board went forward with the fair, but with noticeable changes, including the cancellation of such popular events as the headlining concert, wine tasting and the demolition derby. They kept safety in mind, while still trying to give the community what it wanted.

This year, the Fair Board is “going all out” as the Washington County Fair returns with a full schedule of events in 2021. It should live up to its theme “Fair Fun in '21.”

Country performs Chris Colston and Logan Mize, who was to perform in 2020, will take the stage tonight to kick off the nearly week-long festivities.

Livestock and other animals, which were shown but kept off site last year, will fill the barns as 4-H youth prepare to show them in the show rings.

Fair Board members are expecting big crowds for the rodeo, tractor pulls and demolition derby. The carnival, which will offer more rides and games, is also expected to be more popular.

After a subdued year, the 2021 Washington County Fair could break attendance records.

“We're seeing lots of things like that that are a rejuvenated boost from having a year off,” Fair Board president Jason Cloudt said.

If you haven't attended the Washington County Fair in years or if you attend every year, make sure you support this great event that's one of the best draws to the county.

Here's to one of the biggest and best years of the fair.