The Southwest Washington Fair is slowly coming together. And under its 2021 theme, “Let’s All Go To The Fair,” officials are planning a wide-open, regular event, wary that restrictions may or may not be imposed by the governor's office.
“We’re just going to plan like there are no restrictions,” said Thomas Larson, chair of the fair’s advisory commission.
Although Gov. Jay Inslee has slated a full reopening of the state for June 30 — weeks before the August fair — marketing specialist Pat Slusher Jr. says fair officials are still on the lookout for COVID-19 guidance or restrictions that may come down from the state.
During a fair advisory commission meeting Tuesday, Slusher also noted he’s keeping an eye on whether state officials will react to the Packwood Flea Market — the huge, largely unmasked three-day event held last weekend with no COVID-19 precautions enforced.
Commissioners also said that the cancellation of other, nearby fairs — including those in Clark and Thurston counties — shouldn’t worry Southwest Washington Fair attendees.
The fair is on, and officials gave hints Tuesday as to what will be in town for the annual event: the rodeo is a go, and the United States Navy will be stopping by with a simulator of the USS Nimitz, a large warship.
Slusher declined to disclose what performers are lined up, as contracts are still being finalized.
Fairgoers should also know that applications are open for Little Miss Friendly, the “official hostess and living logo” of the fair. Girls aged 8-10 can apply online here: https://southwestwashingtonfair.org/events/little-miss-friendly/.
Kids, teens and adults can also now sign up for the “Stars of Tomorrow” talent show here: https://southwestwashingtonfair.org/events/contests/.
Exhibitors planning on showcasing their livestock, crafts, art or other items can also begin reviewing the 2021 handbooks, which have largely been uploaded to the fair’s website.
In non-fair news, the fairgrounds won’t be hosting the Billetproof car show this year, after the show canceled its events nationwide. But the Country Chicks Market is still on for next weekend.
