The fairgrounds are being prepped, the fryers will be warmed up, the boots will be cleaned, the truck engines revved up, and the tractors all topped off with gas.

The 162nd Clayton County Fair is set to roll through Northeast Iowa with some “Down Home Country Fun” from August 3-8, 2016.

The hard work and creative minds of the local 4-Her’s will kick off the celebration and continue throughout fair week. The Exhibit Hall with all of their fantastic projects will be open throughout the weekend to showcase what the 4-H clubs and their members have been working on all year.

On August 3, (the first night), the fair will have a BBQ meal starting at 5 p.m. and the Flag Raising Ceremony at 6:30.  With full stomachs, head over and cheer on the contestants in the Fair Queen Pageant as the young ladies of Clayton County display their talents and class.

The Clayton County Fair is sure to be a hit this year with live performances from the country duo, the Bellamy Brothers, on August 4 at 7:30 p.m., and country singer, Terri Clark, on August 5 at 8 p.m.

The fun continues throughout the whole week with different events such as the Skid Loader Rodeo, teen dances, Demolition Derby, the 6th Annual Clayton County Bull Bash with mutton busting, 3rd Annual Stick Horse Rodeo, tractor and truck pulls, and Celebrity Donkey Races. The carnival rides will be free for all to ride as well.

I can already smell the greasy, mouthwatering fair food and hear the live music and delightful squeals of the young children on carnival rides echoing through the countryside of scenic Clayton County.

For more information about events, schedules and ticket prices head to www.claytoncountyfair.com or “like” them on Facebook.