Cleveland County Fair kicks off Sept. 29

SHELBY – There’s a word for autumn in Cleveland County – fair time. The 81st version of the event kicks off on Thursday, Sept. 29, running for 10 fun-filled days until October 8.

In 1924, the Kiwanis Club of Shelby started a tradition that endures today. The people of Western North Carolina gathered at the Cleveland County fairgrounds in early autumn to exhibit their crops, livestock, sewing and canning. From its beginnings, the Cleveland County Fair was recognized as one of the state’s largest and best agricultural fairs. For many people, in those early days, fair time was a grand holiday, comparable to Christmas. Today, as then, fair time means fun time. This is a part of the tradition that remains through the years.

The fair hosts 6,000 exhibits, 2,000 exhibitors, music, food, family entertainment, horticulture, livestock, history, arts, crafts, and the famous Reithoffer Carnival Midway. Entry day for exhibits is today (Sept. 28) from 9 a.m. to 8 p.m.

Opening eay ceremonies will be at 5 p.m. Thursday in Weathers Arena. Gates will open at 3 p.m. on both Thursdays, both Fridays, Monday and Wednesday; at 9 a.m. on both Saturdays; at 10 a.m. on Sunday; and at 11 a.m. on Tuesday. Gates close at 11 p.m.

The fairgrounds are located at 1751 E. Marion St., which is also Hwy. 74 business in Cleveland County. Admission is $7 for adults and $2 for children age 6-12. Under 6 years old are admitted free. This year, the age of senior citizen free admission has been changed dramatically. Previously anyone age 75 or older had been admitted free; but this year, free gate admission is available to everyone over 65.