I attended the Champaign County Fair one year shortly after we moved here. I remember riding in a Ferris wheel cage with a teen boy who seemed to be projecting “What is this old lady doing in on this thing?” thoughts in my direction. (Mind you, that was quite a few pounds and years ago.)
I know that some businesses in town close or have curtailed hours for the fair. I know that if Frisch’s is crowded on an evening during fair week fairgoers are seeking relief from the environmental roasting.
I know about grandstand entertainers. I know of Senior Day. I know about exhibitor booths such as Urbana Physical Therapy, Right-to-Life, the Peace Alliance and “Springfield News-Sun.”
Now, I know some new things about the fair.
More than a week ago, I drove on Powell and noticed an amusement ride on the fairgrounds property. “Oh, yeah. Getting ready for the fair.”
From a discussion with Fair Board member Chuck Havens I learned that Champaign County is one of a diminishing number of fairs to have harness racing.
From driving Powell this week, I realized an entire new city has cropped up. I dubbed it Fifth-Wheel City. “Sure, this is something that can’t wait until Thursday, the night before, to get set-up.”
I also noticed the crowds at the cow and pig barns. Again, the bedding and preparation doesn’t just happen the night before.
An un-tallied number of behind-the-scenes hours makes the Champaign County Fair one of the best in the state.
The fair is a celebration of more than just agricultural products. It’s a celebration for the people of the county.