Jersey, Without the Shore

The Jersey County Fair sure packs a lot into its nine days. The 141-year-old fest kicks off on Saturday, July 10, with 4-H shows and other events and finishes things off on Sunday, July 18, with a demolition derby at 6 p.m. — even the most jaded city dweller ought to be amused with that lineup! On Tuesday, July 13, the fun begins with a sheep show at 8 a.m., continues with the eye-delighting tricks of "Kandu" the Magician and the friendly, furry creatures at the free petting zoo (from 6 to 10 p.m. Tuesday through Sunday), and closes out the day with the Jersey County Talent Competition at 8:15 p.m. at the grandstand ($2 to $6). Other fair highlights include the National Tractor Pullers Association Grand National Tractor Pull at 7 p.m. on Friday, July 16 ($6 to $13) and the Jersey County Fair Queen Pageant at 7 p.m. on Wednesday, July 14 ($2 to $6). To learn more about the festival and to see the full schedule, visit www.jerseycountyfair.com. Parking at the fairground, which is located at 1610 Road E in Jerseyville, Illinois, is free, and fair admission is $2; armbands netting a night full of carnival rides cost $18 to $20 (6 to 11 p.m. Tuesday through Sunday).
July 10-18, 2010