County Fair begins this week
A mixture of past favorites and some new surprises promises to please fairgoers at this year’s McLean County Fair being held June 11-13. Premiering this year is the Ranch Rodeo being held Friday evening at 7 p.m., which is bound to be a crowd-pleaser. The Mighty Thomas Carnivals will be open at 2 p.m. Thursday, 3 p.m. Friday, and noon on Saturday. Fifteen rides will provide a variety of attractions for every age and adventure level. Advance carnival voucher prices will be $15 (available at dozens of businesses in McLean County). Flag Raising and Opening Ceremonies begin Thursday morning at 9:30 a.m. and continues with the start of judging for 4-H projects and a noon picnic. 4-H livestock shows will open. Commercial exhibits will be open Thursday at 3 p.m. until 10 p.m. and Friday from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m., and 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. on Saturday. Fairgoers can participate in a 4-H silent auction and bake sale, while they browse through this year’s exhibits. The Rocky Top Petting Zoo will be open from noon to 8 p.m. both Friday and Saturday. Fun BINGO will be held both Thursday and Friday.