THE BALLOON MAN

County fairs more than just tractor pulls and livestock

(foto from balloonman files)
from: dailyherald.com
By Daily Herald staff
7/14/2013
County fairs are just part of summertime traditions.

From tractor pulls to bull riding to livestock competitions, county fairs give city folks a real taste of country.

Some fairs are even going a little upscale with local wineries and microbreweries as part of their attractions. At the Lake County Fair, the Chicago Flower & Garden Show is returning with a special exhibit that will appeal to gardeners and flower lovers alike.

So mark your calendars, and get ready to head to the fair.

Kane County Fair
When: 3 to 11 p.m. Wednesday, July 17; noon to 10 p.m. Thursday, July 18; noon to midnight Friday and Saturday, July 19-20; and noon to 10 p.m. Sunday, July 21

Where: Kane County Fairgrounds, on Oak Street, off Randall Road between routes 64 and 38, St. Charles,

Info: www.kanecountyfair.com

Fox Valley's biggest summer event takes place at the Kane County Fairgrounds in St. Charles, and bull riding will take center stage for entertainment on two nights.

"ESPN has made bull riding very popular," says Larry Breon, president of the Kane County Fair Association.

Other grandstand entertainment includes an international truck pull championship, a big hat rodeo and a demolition derby. There will be live music with different bands performing each day.

The kids can enjoy a petting zoo, a magic show, a talent show, duck races, racing pigs, rides and a game show. New this year is an arcade center with 25 different games, as well as a food court.

An educational show and Ask-a-Farmer session will give kids a chance to talk about agriculture, Breon says. "That's a nice touch, especially when we're getting farther and farther away from that," he says.

Look online for finalized prices and details. Get discounts on tickets if you bring cans of food to donate to local food pantries.
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