The independent VW

SCOTT TRUXELL/freelance editor

Late August and Labor Day weekend bring the 168th annual Van Wert County Fair, which officially begins on Tuesday, August 27th and runs through Labor Day Monday, September 2nd, at the Van Wert County Fairgrounds.

Daily admission and opening hours

Daily admission is $10 for ages 13 and older and free for children under 12. Gates open at 8 a.m. daily and the fairground opens at 10 a.m. daily. The fair closes at midnight daily.

Food, vendors, games, rides

A wide variety of food, games and rides are offered, as well as a variety of different vendors. Ride availability, times and prices are determined by the ride provider, Jessop Amusements Inc. Wristbands for the rides are available for purchase.

Special days

Wednesday, August 28th is Senior Citizens Day at the Van Wert County Fair. Anyone over the age of 60 is admitted free until 4 p.m. Free doughnuts and coffee will be served starting at 9 a.m. in the Midway Entertainment Tent on the northwest corner of the Commercial Building.

Thursday, August 29th is Veterans Day. Veterans and their spouses are admitted free. Veterans must show military ID. A Veterans Day program will be held at 11 a.m. in the paddock area.

Saturday, September 31st is First Responders Day. First responders have free admission all day.

Exhibitions and shows

There will be numerous livestock and non-livestock exhibits and shows throughout the week, including the Showman of Showmen competition on Monday, September 2nd at 6:00 p.m. and the Jr. Fair livestock sale on Tuesday, September 3rd at 9:00 a.m.

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