Dogs, ponies, cows, chickens, tractors and a carnival midway – what could be a better summertime diversion?
Moreover, that's only the beginning of the story. The Harford County Farm Fair, which opens Thursday at the Harford County Equestrian Center in Bel Air and continues through Sunday afternoon, also features a rodeo, an array of demonstration projects and entertainers, food vendors to satisfy most any taste and the age-old Kidway – low end carnival type attractions geared to the youngest of children and, unlike the midway, included in the price of admission to the fair.
There's more, but you get the idea. It's a county fair in the grand tradition of American county fairs.
Sometimes lost on those who attend the fair on a casual basis is that such events generally showcase the best in agriculture produced by the county's young farmers. Entries in a massive range of 4-H and Future Farmers of America exhibits will be available for viewing, and the top entries will have ribbons prominently displayed. From lop-eared rabbits, to chickens, to quilts to photography, the entries are such that everyone can find something to appreciate.
Tickets are $8 for adults and $4 for children ages 5 to 11, with children 4 and under admitted free. Tickets for members of the military with ID are $5. Senior Day is Thursday with $5 admission for anyone age 60 and older.
The price of admission is such that it's a relatively inexpensive day of family together time, even when food vendors are figured in.
There's no reason this weekend in Harford County, therefore, for any household to be plagued by the summertime childhood lament: "I'm bored."