The Macon County Fair opens today (Sept. 22) with the theme “Here we grow again.”
Last year’s fair, like many things in 2020, was modified due to the COVID pandemic, so organizers are looking forward to offering a full fair this year with the animal displays and shows, the educational and commercial booths, individual entries showcasing everything from art to zucchini, the cake baking contest, barbecue supper and more.
“‘Here We Grow Again’ is an appropriate theme that embodies the heart of Macon County residents desire to experience once again their beloved local county fair,” said Christine Bredenkamp, director of the Macon County Cooperative Extension Service. “The Fair Board, Cooperative Extension, FFA students, sponsors, and many volunteers have spent time, labor and love in preparing for this year’s fair. We are hopeful for a good showing of vendors, exhibits and youth livestock shows, so come and check out to this year’s ‘Here We Grow Again’ at the Macon County Fairgrounds.”
The county fair traces its history back to a meeting in February 1953 when a group of citizens and agriculture workers met to discuss the idea of starting a county fair. They were told a county fair could not be successful without a midway or carnival rides. Determined to showcase Macon County’s agriculture heritage, they proved the naysayers wrong. The Macon County Fair is one of the last remaining agricultural fairs in the state, focusing on the county’s farming roots and local talent and organizations.