The Fourth of July holiday is often seen as the mid-point of summer occasions. However, it also means that county fairs are just around the corner.

One of the most enjoyable activities of the summer months is visiting local county fairs. The sights and sounds of a brightly lit carnival, children’s laughter, FFA and 4-H events, and other activities like motor sports always evoke a delight that nothing else can quite match.

Having grown up in 4-H and FFA, I have many wonderful memories of competing in local fairs while a funnel-cake-scented breeze wafted around the fairgrounds. There is something almost magical about the culmination of the many different projects to which those kids have dedicated their time and a tangible relief when the competitions are complete.

Another often overlooked aspect of county fairs and celebrations is simply the opportunity to spend time among friends and neighbors who don’t have the time during a regular day to visit and talk. The county fair is the chance to slow down for a few hours and simply enjoy life.

Folks in Howard County have already had the opportunity to enjoy their county fair just last week. The Johnson County Fair will take place in Warrensburg July 7-14. Carrollton will be home to the Carroll County Fair on July 10-13. The Lafayette County Fair will take place in Higginsville July 12-18. Activity will speed up in Chillicothe when the Livingston County Fair opens on July 12 and runs through July 19. Ray County will host its county fair in Richmond July 12-20. The Saline County Fair is slated for July 17-21 in Marshall. And Kingston will host the Caldwell County Fair July 18-21.

I encourage you to make some time in your busy schedule to visit your local fair. There is no substitute for the fun and camaraderie that is just waiting for you to stop by and take part. And, don’t forget, that the young 4-H participants who bring home winning ribbons get to take those winning entries to the state fair in a handful of weeks.

As always, please feel free to contact me or my staff with any questions or concerns at any time. We look forward to hearing your comments and suggestions and trying to answer any questions you may have. You can reach us by phone at 866-277-0882 (toll-free) or 573-751-2272, or by fax at 573-526-7381.