Near record attendance expected for Linn County Fair

By John Teagarden, Linn County Fair Board

“Attendance for the Aug 3-10, 2024 Linn County Fair & Rodeo in Mound City may set a record for our four night shows” said Austin Stroup, fair board president.

Advance ticket sales are brisk with five queen candidates vying for the title of Linn County Fair queen, he said.

“Our attendance was strong last year despite a near-record heat wave. Hopefully the weather forecast of more moderate temperatures for early August holds true for this year’s fair,” continued Stroup.

“Each year the fair board members and volunteers strive to make improvements to the fair facilities,” said Building and Grounds chairman Brent Paddock, Mound City. “Improvements two years ago included completion of a wide sidewalk at the east end of the bleachers, installation of a French drain around the perimeter of the arena and a pedestrian crossing connecting the east and west parking lots.

“One of the big improvements last year was in the arena sound system thanks to the modern digital sound technology furnished by sound man “Crazy Jake” Jacobson Productions, Scottsdale, Ariz.”

“Improving the lighting on the fairgrounds has been a focus for 2024”, said Paddock. 

“Fifteen new LED fixtures are being added on the ‘south’ side of the fairgrounds around the barn and south road. Solar powered LED lights will be erected at the east parking lot and at the two entrances off Highway 7.” 

Additional improvements for the upcoming fair include the painting of the arena fence and the addition of more portable toilets for the night shows.

The Linn County Fair starts Saturday, Aug. 3, at 7 p.m. with the crowning of the Linn County Fair & Rodeo queen followed by the Demolition Derby. The Outlaw Truck and Tractor Pull begins at 7 p.m. Sunday, Aug 4. 

Judging of livestock and exhibits is scheduled throughout the week with the 4-H and FFA Livestock Sale Saturday, Aug. 10 at 10 a.m. The fair concludes with the Professional Rodeo Cowboy Association (PCRA) rodeo Friday and Saturday, Aug. 9-10 at 8 p.m.

The fair is also sponsoring a street dance on Wednesday, Aug. 7 at 8 p.m. featuring Trevor Holman and the Haymakers. That event is free.

For a complete schedule for the fair events, click on this link to go to the Linn County Journal's fair section. More information is available at linncountyfair.org or on the Linn County Fair & Rodeo on Facebook.