A summer tradition since 1851, the 172nd Butler County Fair will take place July 24 to July 30. 

The planning and organization for this year’s fair is running smoothly, officials say. 

“I am most excited to see the friends and families we only get to see this one week out of the year,” said Doug Turner, president of the fair board. “The fair brings such a good sense of community and fun.” 

Evening grandstand events include a rodeo, tractor pull and three nights of demolition derby. The daytime schedule is filled with livestock, flower and fine art shows, cake and pie auctions, and craft beer and wine competitions. The fair will also feature rides, games, carnival food and food trucks. 

The Butler County Fair Board is still accepting concession applications. Past crowd favorites China Rainbow and Neals BBQ will serve fairgoers this year, officials said. 

The fairgrounds have reached capacity for camper vehicles this year and will sell no more general public camper admissions, officials said. Daily general admission is $9 for adults and $4 for children ages 6 to 12. Seniors and veterans enjoy free admission July 27. 

“I have been president for 15 years or so. What keeps me coming back and doing this work is the kids,” Turner said. “It is a joy seeing them all have fun like they do at the fair playing games and eating good food. There is always a good sense of family and community at the fair.” 

Attendees can expect to see fewer COVID-19 precautions this year compared to last year. The board of directors has decided to clean after every show instead of between classes and individual acts, officials said. Hand sanitizer and cleaning stations will be located around the fairgrounds. 

The Butler County Fairgrounds is located at 1715 Fairgrove Ave. in Hamilton.