HOT PURSUIT

I couldn’t help but notice a front-page headline in one of the area newspapers I read. It said: “No carnival at the Goodhue County Fair.”

What?

It seems the fair ran into a scheduling conflict with Crescent City Amusements in Louisiana so the fun thrills for youngsters, and probably some adults, were absent at last week’s fair in Zumbrota.

The story went on to say that the fair board shared disappointment over what transpired, especially knowing it’s a favorite for many of those who attend the fair.

This bizarre turn of events made me think about how lucky area residents are with the Steele County Free Fair. In all fairness, it’s likely not Goodhue fair’s fault for what happened.

But after attending Sunday night’s appreciation dinner at the fair, I was quickly reminded of what’s in store for Steele Countians and others at this week’s extravaganza that has become known as the largest and best county fair in Minnesota. Workers were dangling from the roller coaster next to a towering crane piecing together the thrilling ride. It’s one of a kind that won’t be offered at any other county fair in Minnesota.

While SCFF is offering a mind-blowing carnival this year with the addition of the Arctic Blast, there are so many other areas that make Steele County a top-notch fair.

And it just keeps getting better every year.

I ran into Lorrie Rugg of the Steele County Master Gardeners, and she could barely contain her excitement over what they have to offer this year. The gardeners have a new area featuring multiple gardens near the Steele Saloon.

And, of course, there’s the Saloon itself. Doug Meier has coordinated crews to finish off the interior, along with an outdoor cement patio. The Saloon will not only be a gathering spot during the fair, but also throughout the rest of the year for various community functions.

I remember coming to the area 16 years ago not really familiar with what Steele County had to offer. My jaw literally dropped to the ground when stepped onto the grounds and saw the Steele County Fair kick into action. I have always marveled and still do to this day at what kind of fair Steele puts together.

I always thought my home fair in McLeod County was a pretty big deal, but it’s nothing compared to what Steele County has assembled for decades. Or make that a century. In this week’s history section, there is a note in the 100 years ago section: “Recognized as the biggest fair in Minnesota, one of the largest in the U.S. and as large as many state fairs, the members of the Steele County Fair Board promise that the sixth annual production will be better, bigger and brighter in all departments.”

I actually wonder what those who put together the fair back in the 1920s would think today if they could see how the fair has grown to be, I’m sure, even more spectacular than it was back then.

It shouldn’t come as a surprise to me, but I do marvel at how much pride there is in the local fair. Folks embrace this as “their own fair,” and that’s truly what sets Steele County apart from other fairs. I challenge you to find volunteers anywhere else who are more passionate about the fair than the ones in Steele County.

I hope folks realize that we truly have something special here.

Isn’t it time to be in hot pursuit of getting out to the fair? Have fun at the fair this week!