By Janet Aversa
This Hillsborough County Fair is back and this year it is adding even more fun. The fair will run Thursday, October 23 through Sunday, October 26 and Thursday, October 30 through Saturday, November 1
“We are adding special events to the competitions this year at the October fair and they hold promise to entertain and thrill the fairgoers of all ages,” said Hillsborough County Fair Manager Tom Umiker. “The popular Ranch Rodeo is back in the 1,800-seat arena Friday and Saturday nights, October 24 and 25. Sunday, October 26 at 3 p.m. we will be introducing the Mexican Bull Riding Rodeo. Friday evening October 31 features Bulls & Barrels with contestants from all across Florida and the southeastern U.S., featuring the thrill of Rodeo Bull Riding coupled with the speed of the girls Barrel Racing.”
The Firefighter Training Show is not only entertaining but educational as well. Participants are chosen from the audience, donned with firefighter gear, and invited to participate in a “smoke-eater’s” competition. At the conclusion of the show, younger members of the audience are given the opportunity to crawl through the firehouse smoke and learn valuable tips on fire safety for the entire family.
“Saturday evening, November 1 marks a first for the County Fairgrounds,” said Umiker. “Smoke will be bellowing and dirt will be flying with the first annual Truck and Tractor Pull. Modified tractors and 4 x 4 Trucks will compete for prizes. The fair concludes special events in the arena with a Demolition Derby on Sunday afternoon November 2. All local participants crash and smash until the last car moving wins. Demolition Derbies have been a staple for years at fairs up north. The Hillsborough County Fair is proud to be one of the few fairs in Florida to present this true down home entertainment.”
Don’t forget Hayrides, Round Bale Decorating, Children’s Pageant, Harvest Awards, Swine Sale, Fine Arts Show, Photography Show, Family Living, Recycled Yard Art Contest, Talent Showcase, Hometown Hillsborough, and fair food including funnel cakes and BBQ, corn dogs and roasted corn, and the Rotary Chili Cook-off. The Youth Horse Show, Bay Area Bandits Shooting Match and the Midway Rides complete the full fair venue.
Fairgoers can buy an arena ticket in advance for $10 which includes entrance for the fair on that event day at no charge, a savings of up to $7. For more information, visit www.hillsboroughcountyfair.com, call 737-3247 or e-mail hillsboroughcountyfair@verizon.net. The fair entrance is located at 215 Sydney Washer Rd. in Dover.
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