Highland Celebrates 60th Year Of The County Fair

Monterey, VA – The Highland County Fair is celebrating a special anniversary this year. Fair Association Secretary Kathy Beverage describes this year’s fair theme.

“The Fair is celebrating its 60th year and our theme Celebrating 60 years of Family Tradition sums it up well” says Beverage. “We have dedicated the fair guide to Kenny Robertson, a member of the Bolar Ruritan Club, who has served on the fair board for 50 years; this is true dedication. The fair guide also contains some early history of the fair which should be some interesting reading and bring back memories to many people. Season tickets are the same price as last year; $15.00 for a season ticket is still the best deal. We are sponsoring a family night on Wednesday and ride tickets will be sold at the reduced rate of $6.00 for ride all night wrist bands. ”

Saturday, August 27 is setup day and also features the very popular horse show at noon. There’s no charge for admission on Saturday and food will be available on the grounds.

“Also in observance of our 60th year, a fair dance will be held on Wednesday night” says Beverage. “Most of the early fairs held a fair dance, so we thought it was appropriate. Also new this year, the Recreation Commission has offered a fast pitch game, and the Highland FFA plans to hold corn hole games.”

The fair’s grand opening starts with the fair parade through Monterey at 6 PM Wednesday evening. The gospel show will follow in the high school gym at 7:30, and the evening’s fun will be topped off by the fair dance at the grand stand at 8:30.

Other fair highlights this year include the demolition derby Thursday evening at 7:30 and the bull riding contest Friday evening at 8 PM. Fair week reaches its peak Saturday evening with the truck and tractor pull starting at 4 PM followed by the fireworks.

“The Fair has always been the social event of the year” says Beverage, “and would not be possible without the help of the entire county and some from outside the county. The Fair Board helps to plan the fair, but it takes a community to pull it off. We truly appreciate each person that volunteers to work or make contributions so the Highland County Fair can continue.”

“The Fair can always use volunteers to help in food booths, park cars, or trash pickup. Talk to any department chair or board member if you are interested in helping. If you have questions regarding the fair, check out our website, www.highlandcountyfairva.com.