The Henry County Fair is set to take place at the Martinsville Speedway from Wednesday, Sept. 21 to Saturday, Sept. 24.
Hosted by Henry County Parks and Recreation, the fair includes rides, games, and food provided by Cole Rides.
Roger Adams, director of the county’s Parks and Recreation Department, said that while last year’s fair was successful, it was a bit of a learning experience. This year, though, he is excited, both for the lessons of the past as well as this year’s event.
“Last year, being the first year, of course everything was brand new. We had to figure out everything to do for the fair, but this year was a lot easier,” he said.
Many of the fan favorites from last year will return, including the Rock n Circus performance.
“We have the Rock n Circus show back for a performance. That was a fan favorite last year, everybody just loved it. He puts on a high energy show,” Adams said.
Animal exhibits, complete with a petting zoo, also will return. However, there are many things new and different about this year’s fair.
“The big difference is our concerts we’re having each night. This year, we’re having a couple national acts,” Adams said.
“Wednesday night is a local band, the TC Carter Band. Thursday night is going to be Spirit FM night, we’re having We Are Messengers. Then, Friday night is B99 night and we’re having Celeste Kellogg,” Adams said.
Adams said he believes fair goers will particularly enjoy one of this years’ new attractions.
“This year, we have a new ground attraction, the Pompeyo Amazing Dog Show. They were on America’s Got Talent a few years ago, so we’re really excited to see the dog show,” Adams said.
The reigning Miss Henry County Fair, Emily Vaught, will attend the fair all four nights. Vaught won the pageant held in June and also will compete in the Miss Virginia Association of Fairs Pageant later this year.
“It’s going to be a great, exciting four days with all the national acts, the concerts, the rides. We just encourage folks to come out,” Adams said.
The fair runs from Wednesday and Thursday, from 5 p.m. to 10 p.m., Friday from 3 p.m. to 11 p.m., and Saturday from 11 a.m. to 11 p.m.
Tickets for the fair can be purchased beforehand or at the fair, with a discount for tickets bought in advance. All-inclusive tickets, which include gate admission, ground shows, unlimited rides, fireworks, and more, can be bought online at colerides.com.
