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Check Out Photos of the Avery County Agricultural and Horticultural Fair; Fair Continues Through Saturday

by Madison Fisler Lewis

Sept. 12, 2014. The 21st annual Avery County Agricultural and Horticultural Fair, known as the Avery Country Fair, is already well underway. The fair began on Sept. 9 and will continue until Sept. 13.  This year’s theme celebrates the 100th anniversary of the North Carolina Cooperative Extension Service.

This popular fair is a family-oriented event that strives to preserve mountain heritage. Included in the event lineup are pig roundups, chainsaw competitions, cupcake wars, corn hole tournaments, corn shucking, heritage displays and demonstrations, a beauty pageant, a talent show and much more. On Saturday, attendees will get to see Carolina Mower Racing on the racetrack and a garden tractor pull. Food will be abundant and there will be plenty of rides all along the midway.

The fair is home to many Farm and Home competitions, including jam and jelly competitions, flowers and baked goods.

“The young kids love the rides, and for the kids there’s the talent show and beauty pageant. There’s really something for everyone to enjoy. It’s a huge family fun event,” said Aneda Johnson, Fair Director in a previous interview.

The fair is open from 5-10:30 p.m. each evening with rides beginning at 6 p.m. The Saturday fair opens at 10 a.m. with rides running from 12-5 p.m. and starting again at 6 p.m. Ride bracelets will cost $20 Friday and Saturday.

For more information about this event, click here. Then, check out photos of the fair below.

Photos by Ken Ketchie

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Families get ready for a day of fun at the fair.
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The fair features lots of fun for the kids.
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An art showcase is featured under the big tent.
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The fair also features produce and livestock competitions.
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Many locals brought their produce to be judged at the fair.
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This squash won first place!
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Lots of ribbons for these winners of one of the food and craft competitions.
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Just a small chunk of the art showcase.
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It’s never too early in the year for Christmas trees to start winning hearts – and ribbons!
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You know fall is coming when pumpkins start winning competitions.
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Happy bovines at the livestock section.
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Pigs too!
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Another happy cow in the livestock area.
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Cute little goats too!
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A second place winner in one of the animal competitions.
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A few chickens as part of the livestock competition.
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A fair isn’t complete without a Carousel.
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Excited attendees purchasing their tickets.
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The fair featured exciting rides for all ages to enjoy.
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A dragon roller coaster was a kid favorite.
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A firehouse-themed fun house got lots of attention.
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Rides for all ages were featured at this year’s fair.
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The giant swings are a fair staple.
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A trip to the fair wouldn’t be complete without a ride on the Ferris Wheel.
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Fun houses are always a great time.
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Don’t forget the games! Check out this rubber duckie booth!
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Try your luck and win a prize!
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Pop balloons for a chance to win a great prize.
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The fair featured rides for all ages.
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The fair featured rides for all ages.
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The dragon roller coaster was a hit with the kids.
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Kids having a great time on the roller coaster.
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Having a great time on the Carousel.
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Don’t forget to nab a tasty treat, like a candy or caramel apple.
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A judging table.
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The fair truly has something for everyone.