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There are not many events that can say they have been held annually for a century and a half.
That alone makes the Jefferson County Fair special. The rite of late summer will return for the 153rd time this week, and while this year's theme is "Change is Good," rest assured the fair, which runs Monday through Aug. 18 at Friendship Park, will continue to celebrate heritage, artisanship, craftiness in the kitchen, agricultural expertise and just good, old-fashioned American fun.
One of the things that makes the county fair special is the way it crosses generations, offering a way to connect what's good about today with what was good from days long past. And, in a world of greater specialization, the county fair continues to provide something for just about everyone to enjoy.
Collections from the area's gardeners will be on display. There will be examples of culinary skills, including local bakers who continue to produce mouth-watering cookies, homemade pies and other treats. Canning and sewing skills will be on display.
If you are looking to unwind, the midway will offer amusement rides as well as a wide selection of fair food, much of which is a guilty pleasure many will wait all year long to enjoy.
There's plenty of entertainment, from dirt track races to an auto cross; from the annual cheerleading competition to tractor pulls for adults and kids. There will be live musical performances and karaoke, square dancing, the baby beautiful contest, the grand parade, a demolition derby and the annual sale of livestock.
More important will be the pride that will be seen on the faces of the youngsters as they show off the animals and other projects they have worked so hard to perfect.
None of it happens, though, without the hard work and dedication of the men and women who volunteer their time as advisers, counselors and coaches and who serve on the county fair board. Their commitment, plus the support of parents, sponsors and area residents, ensures the tradition continues -- and grows.
According to the welcome statement in this year's fair book, the fair remains a showplace for the creative skills of people of all ages and a place to see new products and exchange new ideas.
It all begins Monday, with the opening ceremonies and the coronation of the royalty at 5 p.m. at the Rozsa Pavilion, and runs through Aug. 18, when the demolition derby at the grandstand and the dance competition at the pavilion close out the event.
We hope you will make the trip to Smithfield this week to enjoy the excitement, camaraderie and fun that makes the Jefferson County Fair special.