July 30, 2018 at 4:35 p.m.
Oneida County Fair expands to include new attractions
By Kayla Thomason-
The 2018 Oneida County Fair, set to kick off at 4:30 p.m. Thursday at Rhinelander's Pioneer Park, will have all that and more.
First-year fair coordinator Tom Barnett said organizers are ready to roll out a bigger fair with more entertainment than ever before.
"I think it's (planning the fair) going really well," he said. "Of course this is a transitional year and I have learned a lot. My main goal was to bring twice as much entertainment and things to do to this year's fair and I believe we have been very successful. We truly have a lot to offer this year and I know people are going to have a great time."
Apollo's Beacon, the Miller and Mike comedy team and the Dangerous Fun Show (featuring a daredevil/escape artist) are among the entertainers scheduled to perform throughout the weekend.
A variety of contests, such as the hotly anticipated Sexiest Men's Legs in a Kilt contest, are also planned.
"When I was thinking of new and fun contests to add to this years fair, I remembered a contest I got talked into down in Long Grove, Ill. - the sexiest men's legs in a kilt contest," Barnett said. "I remember how fun it was and thought it would be a great addition to the fair. The response has been overwhelmingly positive. I am amazed at how many men have entered and yes, there is still room for more."
Men who wish to compete but don't have a kilt can borrow a spare kilt. Men can register now or right before the contest, which will be judged by Ms. America, Brittany Wagner of Hazelhurst.
Wagner will also emcee the Junior Talent Show and participate in several events.
Other contests include the Pallet Recycling contest, Ugly Lamp contest, Floral Container contest, Junior Talent Show contest, Doxie Dash, watermelon-eating contest and more.
For those interested in animals, the Northwoods Equestrian Drill Team will perform and Casady's Critters will be on hand with their adorable animals.
K&M Amusement ride tickets will be $1 each or 22 tickets for $20. There will also be wristband hours.
Food vendors will be hawking fair favorites, such as funnel cakes, hand-dipped corndogs, cheese curds, fries and cheesecake.
The layout will be a bit different this year, with the most noticeable change being the merchandise vendors will be located in a more prominent spot.
Additional layout changes are expected in the future, Barnett said.
"I am not sure what people will think, but I do hope they will see we are tying to improve the layout," he said. "We want our vendors and entertainment to thrive with the best exposure they can get and we want our patrons to see everything we have to offer. Change is hard but necessary. My hope is that people will enjoy the fair and realize we are listening and doing things to make it a great experience."
Fair organizers are also trying to help grow is 4-H program, he added.
"We encourage kids and others to get involved in 4-H," he said. "It;s a wonderful and fulfilling experience and we would love to see that grow over the next few years as well. We are moving forward and will continue to grow and improve every year."
For a complete list activities and to see the full weekend schedule, visit www.ocfairwi.com.
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