Homegrown, national talents take the stage at Clark County Fair

The Clark County Fair’s 2016 theme of “Sew it, Grow it, Show it” also fits nicely when it comes to the big tent entertainment.

A lot of homegrown talent will strut their stuff for the area crowds, along with a returning favorite tribute band and an established country star.

Big tent entertainment shows are free with gate admission to the fair.

“We’ve got a lot of different things and just spectacular local talent,” said Alex Ryan, Clark County Fair public relations coordinator.

Local country act One Eyed Jack will kick off the entertainment at 7:30 p.m. Friday.

A huge hit at the 2014 Fair, KISS tribute band Mr. Speed makes its return at 7:30 p.m. Saturday.

“They have a big following, so we’re happy to bring them back,” Ryan said.

Three local performers for the price of one highlights the Sunday showcase when up-and-coming country artist and Southeastern High School graduate Wyatt McCubbin headlines, supported by Gretchen Mitchell and Ty Cooper at 6:30 p.m.

“People love to see local performers and Wyatt has gone beyond local in his career,” Ryan said.

A new offering is the Hot 102.9 Local Talent Showcase at 7 p.m. Monday. It will bring together pre-screened candidates who will display their rap and hip-hop skills for judges.

“This is something a little different. We’re trying to attract all kinds of different music genres,” said Ryan.

The annual 4-H Winners Revue at 7 p.m. Tuesday is a special event that will feature the crowing of the 4-H king and queen.

The 2016 featured performer will be country music star Phil Vassar at 7:30 p.m. Wednesday.

A singer/songwriter, Vassar has had two No. 1 songs on the country charts — “Just Another Day in Paradise” and “In a Real Love,” along with several other top 10 songs he performed, and wrote several other top five hits for artists including Tim McGraw and Alan Jackson.

“This is our big act. We’re really excited to have an audience pleaser like this,” Ryan said.

Rounding out the big tent entertainers will be two local acts. The Temps, a cover band from South Charleston that plays everything from Def Leppard to the Black Keys on Thursday and Springfield’s Saving Pluto, which plays rock, alt-rock and pop on Friday, July 29. Both shows will be at 7 p.m.

Grandstand Events

Tugging, pulling and crashing will be part of this year’s Clark County Fair grandstand track events.

“There will be thrilling experiences for everybody,” Ryan said.

Grandstand event admission for track events is $6, pit admission is $15 and vehicle pit pass costs $40.

All events are at 7 p.m. except where noted.

Friday and Thursday — Truck Tug-O-Wars

Saturday — NTPA Tractor Pull

Sunday — Demolition Derby

Monday — KOI Drag Races

Tuesday — COTPC Truck Pull

Wednesday — Kids Day Games and Contests, 1 to 3 p.m.; USAC Quarter Midget Races, 7 p.m.

Friday, July 29 — Kiddie Pig Chase, 6 p.m.; Chase the Pig and Calf Scramble, 7 p.m.

For more information, contact the fair office at 937-323-3090 or go to clarkcoag.com/.

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