Alligator on a stick is among the new attractions at this year’s Grays Harbor County Fair, which kicked off Wednesday, Aug. 8.
Every year, the fair offers visitors what organizers call a “Ticket to Fun.” For many, that includes food they might not get elsewhere.
“I know what I’m having for lunch,” fair manager Mike Bruner said.
This year, along with the staples of burgers, scones and hand-dipped corn dogs, fairgoers will be able to try alligator on a stick from New Orleans Cookery, of Metairie, Louisiana, one of the new vendors at the fair. Along with the taste of alligator, they offer fried catfish, jambalaya, red beans and rice, and other Cajun favorites.
Another new offering is Hungarian-style crepes. Bruner says they will offer sweet and savory crepes with fruits, vegetables, Nutella and other ingredients.
“We’re really looking forward to trying these things out.” he said.
The parade and opening ceremony was Wednesday night. A procession of kids, horses, tractors and more wound its way around the fairgrounds ended at the Custom Security/Pavilion Lawn Stage, where opening ceremonies were held.
The Fairground is at 32 Elma-McCleary Road in Elma.
The entertainment lineup is strong again this year.
“Up-and-coming country music artist William Michael Morgan performs Thursday night,” Bruner said. His hits include “I Met a Girl.” Reserved seats are available for his show.
Other acts include Grays Harbor favorites Humptulips, Green River Revival, Professor Bamboozle and Steve the Pretty Good.
The youth livestock auction is at 2 p.m. Saturday at the Montesano Farm and Home Arena.
“These kids get rewarded for their hard work when these animals go to auction,” Bruner said. “Some of these kids help fund their college through the auction.”
And there are other favorites returning this year.
“Muriel’s Petting Zoo is back this year by popular demand. They have all sorts of smaller animals,” Bruner said.
New rides this year include The Screamer thrill ride and a boat ride for kids, according to Davis Shows Northwest, which is returning to Elma.
Racing will return Saturday, Aug. 11, at the fairgrounds.
“We hope we create some new race fans for people who have never come,” Bruner said. “The crowd seems to really enjoy it.”
The classes include modifieds, street stocks and outlaw turners. Gates open at 3 p.m. with racing starting at 5.
One popular attraction will not be attending this year. Predators of the Heart, which includes wolves that were featured on HBO’s “Game of Thrones,” was unavailable.
Concerts
• Thursday, Aug. 9: Dan Whyms tribute to Johnny Cash, 4 p.m. Pavilion/Custom Security Stage, free with paid admission.
• Thursday, Aug. 9: William Michael Morgan, 8 p.m., Pepsi Stage, $25-45.
• Friday, Aug. 10: Humptulips with Ericka Corban and Tony Wintrip, 7:30 p.m., Pepsi Stage, free with paid admission.
• Saturday, Aug. 11: Green River Revival, 8 p.m., Pepsi Stage, free with paid admission.
