FAIR TAB: 179th annual Medina County Fair planned for July 29 through Aug. 4

MEDINA — Soon, the sweet smells of funnel cake and elephant ears, the sounds of farm animals and the overall excitement for a week of fair activities will fill the Medina County Fairgrounds for the 179th annual Medina County Fair July 29 through August 4. Medina County Fair Board President Joe Aungst is looking forward to the fair, especially in supporting the kids taking part throughout the week. "I love helping the kids and the 4-H program. (Also), keeping Medina Fair as much agriculture as we can," he said. "Agriculture is dying in Medina County, but we try and keep it as much agriculture as we can." Throughout the week, Aungst said there will be a lot of displays by the Medina County 4-H kids. "If people can come out and support our 4-H kids, they work hard all year long," Aungst said. "Some started their projects right after last year's fair." The Medina County Farm Bureau will also have a tent set up with educational information about agriculture and its impact. For Aungst, everyone must realize where their food comes from. He said it doesn't magically show up on the grocery store shelves. Rather, it's all dependent on agriculture and what is produced. Besides the 4-H clubs' work, livestock shows and other agricultural events, Aungst said there are many other events planned throughout the week. On Wednesday evening, Tyler Hubbard of Florida Georgia Line will perform in the grandstand at 8 p.m. Musician Karissa Ella will be Hubbard's opening act. Aungst said it has been a few years since the Medina County Fair has hosted big-name entertainment. "We're really hoping that this is a good turnout," he said. "(He) seems to be a really good act." Throughout the week, people can attend events in the grandstand including motocross on Monday at 7 p.m., Buckin' Ohio Bull Riding on Thursday at 7 p.m., Demolition Derby on Friday at 7 p.m. and fireworks on Sunday at 10 p.m. "If you can't make it for Tyler Hubbard, whichever day you could, I highly recommend our grandstand events," Aungst said. General admission tickets cost $8 for those 6 years old and older, while kids 5 years old and under get in for free. Throughout the week, there will be special offers, including free gate admission all day Monday for veterans, free gate admission for people 65 years old and older Tuesday and free gate admission for first responders Sunday. From 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Wednesday, kids 11 years old and younger will receive free admission. For the past few years, the Medina County Fair has turned off lights and loud music on Sensory Day to help those attending the fair with sensitivity. Sensory Day will be Sunday from noon to 2 p.m. As people prepare for a week of fair activities, Aungst said it's a great time for families to make memories and meet new friends. He encourages people to attend the different grandstand events along with visiting the wide range of food trailers. Aungst encourages people to attend some of the livestock shows to see what they are all about. "Hopefully, (it's) a really successful fair," Aungst said. "A lot of attendees and a lot of new memories." To learn more about the Medina County Fair, visit medinaohiofair.com. Contact reporter Sara Crawford at (330) 721-4063 or scrawford@medina-gazette.com.