CRAWFORD COUNTY - ‘Don’t miss the AG-CITEMENT!’ at the Crawford County Fair this year. The fair runs from Thursday, Aug. 22 through Sunday, Aug. 25.

There’s plenty of good old fair fun and some new features as well, according to Crawford County Fair Coordinator Laurie Cauffman. Laurie is in her first year of serving as the coordinator, but has volunteered at the fair for the last six years. 

Laurie takes over from longtime fair coordinator Amanda Griswold, who has stepped down this year. There should be plenty of communication between Amanda and Laurie since they are cousins.

For tractor pull enthusiasts there will be a new group running the Truck and Tractor Pull on Thursday night–the South Central Wisconsin Pullers are taking over running the event this year.

Friday night’s entertainment features Eric Paslay–a popular country singer, who has performed at the Stump Dodger Bash in the past to rave reviews. Nora Collins is scheduled to open for Paslay.

Saturday starts with the Crawford County Fair 5K Walk-Run. It also features the Antique Tractor Pull at noon followed by the Demolition Derby run by the Gays Mills Fire Department.

Sunday brings the Ranch Rodeo to the fairgrounds along with the Talent Show in the grandstand.

Of course, there’s the Midway open every day of the fair featuring rides and games. There’s also animal judging–featuring cattle, swine, poultry and much more.

Local businesses will have displays in the Commercial Building.

Then, there’s the fair food–including food stands for Friends of the Fair, 4-H, the Methodist Church and the American Legion. There’s some beer in a designated area under the grandstand…and plenty more ‘fair food’ on the Midway.

Why come to the Crawford County Fair in Gays Mills?

“Well, it’s a family-friendly event that is sure to entertain and there’s something for everyone,” Laurie Cauffman explained.

So is the new fair coordinator worried?

“Not really– I’m not worried,” Cauffman said. “I go with the flow on things.”

Good enough. 

Two other favorites are back–starting with the Grilled Cheese Contest on Thursday night at 6 p.m. Those interested in participating can sign up online. You can also register the night of the contest, but early applications are encouraged and the online application includes not only the forms, but the rules of the contest. 

And, for the kids, the Prairie du Chien Rod and Gun Club will once again hold their casting contest on Sunday.