Additions, new pricing ensure fun at Columbiana County Fair

The tractor pulls and demolition derbies likely will highlight the week.
By KANTELE FRANKO
VINDICATOR STAFF WRITER
LISBON -- Ticket prices to the 160th annual Columbiana County Fair Aug. 1-7 will include admission to rides, a change from last year's pricing arrangement.
For a $7 entrance fee, attendees will have access to the fair's daily activities and rides, as well as many scheduled exhibits and judging. Tickets to special events in the grandstand will cost an additional $3.
Though the price is $2 higher than the gate fee in 2004, guests will save money compared to last year because they no longer pay a separate ride fee, said fair board President Paul Lease.
Weather is often the largest determining factor, but the board hopes attendance will be at least 30,000, the number of admissions sold in 2004, he said.
"It's our local county fair, a community event and a good time to reminisce," Lease said. "Everyone should support their local county fair."
A new addition to the fair's activities is a Kids Corner that includes storytelling, face painting, puppet shows and other activities free of charge for children who are accompanied by a parent.
Competitions
As was true for past fairs, the demolition derbies and tractor pulls likely will be the biggest hits, Lease said.
While the fair officially starts on Monday, there will be a garden tractor pull at 1 p.m., Sunday at the fairgrounds.
The High School Strong Man Competition on Tuesday, which involves members of area high school football teams, and the Moto Cross competition on Thursday might also attract a large crowd, he said.
Other scheduled events include harness racing, daily performances on the Midway Stage and a style show for sewing and knitting enthusiasts.
Daily events include displays and judging for competitions in both the Senior and Junior fairs, as well as amusement rides and arts and crafts.
Opening ceremonies will be at 6 p.m. Aug. 1 in the grandstand.