STURGIS, S.D. – The Meade County Fair & 4-H Achievement Days are underway with a full slate of activities for all ages – from the city to the country. Meade County 4-H Advisor Jenny Voight says there’s something for everyone.
“We have activities going on throughout for both days for families to come and enjoy,” said Voight. “We have some of our traditional events like the watermelon eating contest and turtle races. The Sturgis Chamber of Commerce and Ag Committee will host a free barbecue on Friday, July 26 from 4:30 – 6:00pm followed by a mutton bustin’ competition and the calf scramble – all with prizes. It’s fun entertainment for the community.”
Among the changes to this year’s Fair is in locations.
“The Meade School District has always been gracious enough to lend us space for exhibits,” shares Voight. “But the time has come for us to put all fair activities in one location and with the completion of the new barn, we can do that this year. We’re excited to have everything at one location.”
Another change is in some events for the Fair.
“One change is the small animal show. All of the animals used to be shown on Saturday which created some bottleneck. So the animal, rabbit, poultry and companion show will be on Friday beginning at 10:30a.m.”
Voight says the participation and support from the Sturgis Chamber of Commerce and the Ag Committee makes a real difference.
“We’re so thankful for the chamber and ag community. The free barbecue and other activities they host really have made a positive addition to the fair. The mutton busting, calf scramble and Ag Olympics are open to all kids to join in – not just 4-H members.”
Every year, the Meade County Fair & 4-H Achievement Days remembers Brandon Delzer, a young 4-H’er who impacted kids and adults alike, says Voight. The Meade County Fair also recognizes an individual or individuals who have been instrumental in the 4-H program.
“Brandon was a 4-H’er that came to every fair with the best attitude. The 5K is on Saturday morning. There is no pre-registration. Just check in at 7a.m. We also have the Brandon Delzer Legacy Premier Livestock Exhibitor Award. It’s for that livestock kid that shows some of the same characteristics that Brandon brought to everything he did.”
She continued, “We also are dedicating the fair to Steve and Sandy Bucholz this year. The Bucholz family in general are great supporters, great club leaders. Their kids are gone and Sandy still comes in and helps. We’ll be honoring Steve and Sandy Friday night.
The Meade County Fair is all about city and country. Held at the fairgrounds east of Sturgis July 26-27, there is everything from livestock shows to rocket launches, bubble gum blowing contests to the Premium Livestock Sale. It’s a chance for folks to enjoy a real, down-home fair. Don’t forget the free Ag Appreciate Dinner open to everyone on Friday from 4:30-6:00p.m.
We want people to see all of the hard work the kids have been doing. The 4-H kids and fair board members really work at bringing together a fun event for everyone to enjoy. I’m excited for the community to come out and support them.”
Fine complete schedules for the Meade County Fair & 4-H Achievement Days on Facebook and by viewing the Fair Book.
