SAFFORD — Trey Andrews, Parks director for Graham County, said people should plan to do some exploring at this year’s Graham County Fair.
“We actually added vendor spaces behind our exhibit building. If you go by our petting zoo, or head in that direction, you’ll find some more vendor spots,” Andrews said. “I know for a fact there’s a grilled cheese place, and it’s massive.”
The fair, with the theme “Pumpkins, pies and Autumn skies,” opens Thursday at 5 p.m.
Judging for swine, goats, rabbits, poultry and pigeons will take place Thursday; along with judging of field crops, horticulture, floriculture, all home economics, art, photography, hobbies and crafts, and foods.
The Rising Stars talent competition for instrumentalists and bands, and Dangerously Fun Juggling, will take place in the band shell, while on the main stage will be the Zaylie Windsor Band followed by headliners the Kids in America playing ‘80s hits.
Friday starts with the Fair Parade down Main Street in Safford at 10 a.m., with Jo Jo Schroder, owner of Thriftee Supermarket, as this year’s grand marshal.
When the gates open, judging of beef cattle and sheep will take place.
The band shell will house performances by Bo Tidla, Safford Dance Academy, Dangerously Fun Juggling, Extreme Martial Arts and Safford Cheer.
Entertainment on the main stage Friday includes the Rising Stars dance and gymnastics performances, the band Notes From Neptune, the Take Cover! band, and headliners AZ/DZ.
Saturday starts with the livestock auction, followed by performances by Dangerously Fun Juggling and Bo Tidla in the bandshell.
Entertainment on the main stage includes the Zaylie Windsor Band, the Radio Ready band and headliners One Drop Redemption.
Sunday the fair is open from noon to 5 p.m. for plenty of midway and ride fun.
There are also a number of events anyone can take part in throughout fair weekend, including a 5K run, cornhole tournament, disc golf tournament, diaper derby, frozen T-shirt contest, grocery grab and carry, sack race and three-legged race.
Admission to the fair is $6 per day for those 11 and older, $5 for seniors 65 and older, $2 for children 6-10, and free for children under 2. Unlimited ride wristbands are $27.99 and be purchased in advance by clicking here.
