Volunteers work on 2022 county fair

The Rock County Fair is more than five months away, but local fair board members are working now to make sure they can pay for all the fair offerings this summer.
Letters went out this week seeking support for the 2022 lineup of fairground attractions.
“Because of the increased costs of entertainment, we are asking for your help to continue to offer items for free or at a minimal cost,” the letter states. “With your sponsorship dollars, we will be able to continually improve the fair.”
According to Fair Board vice president Lee Sells, there’s money set aside for projects, repairs and structures on the grounds, but the budget relies on sponsorship dollars to support the “extras” on the fairgrounds.
“Every dollar helps to make the fair what it is,” Sells said. “We’re able to bring in new things each year because of the support the community gives us.”
For example, the Wednesday night grandstand event is a free meal and Dairyland Donkey Ball, with “celebrity” donkey races beginning at 6:30 p.m.
Local teams of businesses, government offices, organizations or private groups are encouraged to sign up for the “race,” which consists of staying on the donkey as long as possible as it travels a portion of the dirt track.
“It’s a hoot,” Sells said. “It’s really fun to watch.”
Returning grandstand favorites are the GSP Tractor Pull on Thursday night, July 28, a County Fair Rib Cook-off and free band, “Undercover,” are Friday night, and the Enduros close out the grandstand lineup Saturday night.
Free events (thanks to sponsorships) on the fairgrounds this year include the return of pirate impersonator Jack Sparrow, 5R Alpacas, the Wizard of Oz show, a Green Earth Players skit, the Ag Adventure Barn, a glassblower, Kent's Family Circus, Great Lakes Log Show and more.
Live musicians include the Barn Flies Band, Prairie Home Rebellion Band, Mogen’s Heroes and others.
All these attractions cost money, and sponsors and donors play an important role in funding them, Sells said.
“We are very grateful for the support we’ve received from the community,” he said.
The four-day event also relies on an army of volunteers.
“We have a huge board that puts in a lot of time in the off season,” he said. “There are over 30 board members who work to make sure the fair is what it is.”
According to Fair Board treasurer Bob Remme, there will be something for all ages this year and he hopes fairgoers attend all four days July 27-30.
“Each year the board tries to find and bring in different items to make the Rock County Fair a great family tradition,” Remme said.
“Besides the carnival rides and great fair food, there will be so many other items to truly see or take part in.”
Remme said it’s hard work to raise money and organize the fair each year, but it’s always worth it in the end.
“To see the grounds packed and people walking around, laughing, smiling and having a good time on a beautiful summer night with family and friends is so rewarding,” he said.  
Sponsors at the $250, $500, $750 and $1,000 levels will get special recognition at the fair and in the announcer.
Sells and Remme can be reached at 507-220-1725 and 507-220-0177, respectively.
Direct donations to support local fair efforts can be mailed to the Rock County Ag Society at PO Box 623, Luverne, MN 56156. Donation forms are available at the Luverne Area Community Foundation office.
For updates on this year’s event, follow the “Rock County Fair” on Facebook.