The McLean County Ag Fair is set to return July 10-12 with a packed weekend of livestock shows, family-friendly events, and crowd favorites like the parade and tractor pulls. Thanks to generous sponsors, organizers said the fair remains one of the last in Kentucky to offer free gate admission.
“This is truly a community event,” said Fair Board Chair Kristie Bowlds. “We’re proud to be the only fair left in Kentucky that doesn’t charge admission at the gate. You can come enjoy the live music, exhibits, vendors without paying to get in.”
While gate entry is free, tickets are required for motor sports like the ATV Rodeo and Tractor Pulls. Still, Bowlds said the fair strives to stay affordable and accessible for families of all sizes.
Held at Myer Creek Park in Calhoun, the fair opens Thursday evening and runs through Saturday night. Events for all ages are scheduled throughout the weekend, including:
Thursday, July 10
- Exhibits in the 4-H building (4-8 p.m.)
- Petting Zoo (5-8 p.m.)
- Vendors and Putt Putt Golf (5-9 p.m.)
- Live entertainment by Vinyl Groove (5:30-8:30 p.m.)
- Cow Show (6 p.m.)
- ATV Rodeo (6:30 p.m.)
Friday, July 11
- Exhibits in the 4-H building (4-8 p.m.)
- Vendors and Bounce Houses (5-9 p.m.)
- Petting Zoo (5-8 p.m.)
- Live entertainment by Barrett Band (5:30-8:30 p.m.)
- Goat Show, Horse Obstacle Course, and Pedal Tractor Pull (6 p.m.)
- Garden & Antique Tractor Pull (6:30 p.m.)
Saturday, July 12
- 5K Run/Walk at Calhoun Elementary (7 a.m.)
- Cruise-In at Myer Creek Park (9 a.m.-1 p.m.)
- Poultry & Rabbit Show (10 a.m.)
- Petting Zoo (10 a.m.-8 p.m.)
- Pet Show at Shelter 5 (1 p.m.)
- Parade down Main Street (4 p.m.) – lineup at 3:45 p.m. by the chip plant/school board office
- Cart Show (4 p.m.)
- Exhibits in the 4-H building (4-8 p.m.)
- Vendors, Bounce Houses, and Live Entertainment by One Accord (5-9 p.m.)
- Hog Show, Horse Show, and Pony Pull at the Old Tractor Pull Track (6 p.m.)
- Truck, Tractor & Semi Pull (6:30 p.m.)
Bowlds said the fair continues to grow each year since moving from its original location at Calhoun Elementary School to Myer Creek Park. She emphasized the fair’s role as a cornerstone for community pride and youth involvement in agriculture.
“This event gives our youth opportunities in agriculture, and it brings the whole community together,” she said. “From the livestock shows to the parade and live music, there’s something for everyone.”
This year’s fair is presented by dozens of community sponsors. Owensboro Health Regional Hospital is the first-ever Multi-Platinum sponsor at the $10,000 level.
Platinum sponsors contributing $5,000 include Tyson Foods, Perdue, Needham Ag Technologies, and Ohio Valley Insurance. Independence Bank is supporting as a Diamond sponsor at $2,500. Bowlds said many of these sponsors have backed the fair for years.
“We’re so grateful for those who continue to contribute faithfully and for the new sponsors who’ve joined us,” she said. “Without them, none of this would be possible.”
For more information and daily updates, visit the McLean County Ag Fair on Facebook at facebook.com/McLeanCoAgFestival.
