Richland County Fair Starts Wednesday | Video

Chris Williams | 7/31/2012

The fairgrounds are empty right now, but that won`t be the case tomorrow. Organizers are expecting a huge turnout for the Richland County Fair and Rodeo.

"We`re thinking with the boom and everything that`s going on that this year, numbers will probably be up. With the weather, it looks like it`s going to be good. We`re hoping that it`s up in the 30,000 range like it has been in the past few years," said fair board member AnnDee Taylor.

Everyone who comes to the fair enjoys the rides and games, but they aren`t the biggest hit.

"All kinds of food. Hand dipped corn dogs. Can`t beat them, can`t beat the hand dipped corn dogs. We have hamburgers, cheeseburgers, hot dogs chili dogs, French fries, chili cheese French fries," said food vendor Ken Marshall.

The event center is packed full of vendors ready to sell their products, including one couple who traveled over 600 miles to get to the fair.

"Our made in Montana hunting and fishing apparel. We`ve got about 35 different products. All the way from real ultra lightweight shirts, to pants, jackets, t-shirts," said Gary Nesse, owner of Gary Nesse Outdoor World.

Of course, the fair will have animals. Horses are already being prepared for shows tomorrow morning. One rider is hoping to repeat her success.

"This is probably my fourth year. I normally do good. I took grand in trail last year, and reserve in keyhole racing," said rider Autumn Rehbein.

The PRCA rodeo is Friday night, and the fair has planned something special for it this year.

"`Tough Enough to Wear Pink` is Friday night. We`ve raised quite a bit of money for breast and cervical cancer awareness. The concert is Saturday," added Taylor.

The concert is Saturday night at 7:30, and will feature Joe Nichols and John Anderson.

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