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The parking lot is full, the show arena lively with activity. It's the first full day at the Hamilton County Fair for those who just enjoy looking and experiencing our county fair. Those who have been caring for animals and setting up exhibits have been working a long time for this week.
It all comes down to a five day stretch to compete and demonstrate the skills acquired over time.
There is something there for everyone.
From horse shows, to chickens, sheep, poultry and swine, the animals are king with the care given by 4-H and FFA youth and their families. But if you visit the pens in the livestock buildings, you will find all ages enjoying the goats and the roosters, the young calves and the immense number of varying breeds of all the animals.
They are pampered and preened and ready for a chance to be showcased.
It's a wonderful way to expose children to the joy of our animal world.
But if they are not into animals, the Ugly Cake competition in the Ed Prince Building might grab their interest. This year, there were over 50 entries brought in for competition. This ever-growing event entices, surprises and challenges our pallet as we see the creative ways a cake can be uglified.
But when Chris and Mason Vry, who live between Jewell and Story City, viewed the cakes, Mason chose several cakes he would like to eat. One was full of Peeps as part of it's design, the other looked like Shrek.
"So many sweets," he grinned.
Nothing very pretty in the ugly cake categories.
What is pretty is the flower displays, and the special arrangements produced by individuals in our communities.
If not into the exhibits, you can't overlook the food, the musical entertainment and of course the rides in the midway. All together these pieces make up a great county fair.
The opportunities for creativity and education are endless at the fair, not only for the classes that are entered in either the 4-H, FFA or Open Class exhibits, but also for the various activities on the fairgrounds. From the Books in the Barn with the 4-H to the Kids Zone in the Career Ag Academy building, the Spelling Bee at the Ed Prince stage or Rock Painting, the fair organizers have covered the bases with challenges and wondrous experiences during the five day event.
And as the day stretches into evening, there is music and racing that brings joy and excitement to those who don’t want the day to end.
And if you are really lucky, you will meet the 2026 Hamilton County Fair Queen, Sophia Nibe, or a member of her court.
The fair can create memories for a day or a lifetime. Just remember, there is more in store throughout the week, so make a trip to the Hamilton County Fair.