Osage County Free Fair to begin Thursday

“Awesome Things In Osage County” is the theme of this year’s Osage County Free Fair, which starts Thursday and continues through Saturday at the Osage County Fairgrounds, south of Pawhuska on Skyline Drive.

Entries for still exhibits are to be taken beginning at 11 a.m on Thursday, with judging slated to take place at 7 p.m. that night.

Livestock entries must be in by 6 p.m. Thursday. The livestock check-in is set for Friday morning and the actual show will be held 0n Saturday.

Other events at this year’s free fair include a craft show, talent show, motorcycle run, puppy contest and chili-and-salsa cook off.

The annual event “celebrates the agricultural abundance of Pawhuska and the surrounding area with livestock shows, a horse show, ranch rodeo and plenty of 4-H exhibits,” according to a release from the free fair committee.

Visitors are encouraged to browse the educational exhibits and vendor booths that are to be filling the fairgrounds’ buildings. In addition to the fair’s talent show, competitions are scheduled for school choirs, bands and cheerleaders.

Family-style activities are to include a flea market, crafts show, demonstrations, music, games and contests. There will be giant inflatables to entertain the kids and plenty of food.

As always, the good old-fashioned fun revolves around the fair’s livestock and animal events. And, best of all, admission is free. Designated parking also will be provided for this handicapped-accessible event.

Sponsors for the Osage County Free Fair include the Oklahoma State University Osage County Extension Office, Osage County 4-H and the Pawhuska Chamber of Commerce.

Hours for the fair are 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. Thursday; 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. Friday and 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. Saturday.