A Barn Raising Good Time raises the bar for fair

    Countless people who have worked tirelessly to make this year’s fair happen have barely had a chance to catch their breath since the conclusion of one of the county’s busiest weeks of the year, but even without finalized numbers, fair board president Pam Haynes’ impression is that the 2017 Phillips County Fair was just as good as last year.
    Fickle weather kept people on their toes, but ultimately it didn’t hinder the full schedule of events. In fact, in some cases, it may have led to some positive changes for future fairs. The Friday night barbecue, for example, was moved indoors to the Biesemeier room of the Event Center in case of rain.
    Haynes said they received an overwhelming amount of positive feedback on the change, and they noticed an increase in attendance. It was so beneficial to those who cannot tolerate extreme heat or easily traverse the grassy area where the barbecue is usually held that the board is considering relocating again next year.
    Likewise, the Thursday night barrel races were originally scheduled due to another nearby ranch rodeo conflict on the same night, Haynes explained. After it was finished, however, the barrel races were so successful that the board plans to keep them on the schedule. In total, there were 88 runs in the event. Despite it costing the board to host the barrel races without charging admission, Haynes was pleased to see it bring in spectators, and she views it as a worthy investment.
    The races and freestyle motocross show held Friday also boasted an impressive crowd — much better than the Friday night concerts have in the past. The crowds and enthusiasm certainly help the board get motivated for next year, and if there’s one event that fairgoers get excited about, it’s Bulls Gone Wild! This was the fourth year of the show, and it continues to be hugely popular. That, of course, gives the board the question of whether to keep the same event or look for something new to give fairgoers.
    When organizers seek direction for future fairs, it’s the community feedback that helps them most. The salsa contest, for example, was potentially facing its final year, but after an impressive turnout, the Jolly Dozen Club, who sponsors the event, thinks it’s an activity well worth keeping around for future contestants.
    One change made to the 2017 fair was moving the round robin competition to Saturday when it had previously been held Sunday. The new time, Haynes explained, worked well. It allowed exhibitors to check out earlier on Sunday, making it a smoother conclusion. It is a schedule change that will likely be upheld next year as well.
    Also new to the fair lineup this year was Wednesday evening activities sponsored by the Thrashers softball team. A 5K color run, Rocky Mountain oyster fry, beer garden and cornhole tournament appeared to be a successful addition and a fun beginning for the fair week.
    Overall, Haynes is “really happy with how everyone is coming out and supporting the fair” and hopes for continued success in future years.