MANSFIELD, OH (CRAWFORD COUNTY NOW) — The countdown is officially on for the annual Richland County Fair, running August 9th through August 15th. With gate admission set at $10, organizers promise a full week of high-value entertainment, expanded attractions, and notable venue upgrades.
In a recent interview on Community Spotlight with host Randy Bigley, fair representative Kathy Mills shared a look at what fairgoers can expect this year—highlighting a mix of classic traditions and fresh additions.
Live Music Every Night in the Nature Park
One of the fair’s best-kept secrets offers a quiet getaway with top-tier talent. Every evening at 7:00 PM, the fair’s shaded Nature Park will host free live entertainment included with general admission:
- Sunday: Live Christian Music
- Tuesday: Solo acoustic guitarist playing classic and current hits
- Wednesday: Rock, country, and blues band
- Saturday: A featured performance by local favorites and The Voice alumni, Sorelle
Expanded Food Options & Packed Vendor Halls
Foodies will have plenty to look forward to this year. According to Mills, the fair has brought in a significantly larger variety of new food vendors, expanding the types of cuisines available alongside traditional fair staples.
Commercial vendor interest has also surged. Vendor spaces in Fairhaven Hall sold out completely, prompting organizers to expand merchant booths into the Youth Hall to handle the overflow.
Grandstand Thrills & Daily Highlights
The grandstands and arenas will feature action-packed events all week:
- Sunday & Monday: Harness Racing (with pari-mutuel betting)
- Tuesday: Wiener Dog Races
- Wednesday: Rodeo & Mutton Busting, plus the annual Pie Auction at 5:00 PM
- Thursday: Grandstand Tractor Pull
- Friday: Motocross
- Saturday: Demolition Derby
Pies, Arts, and Grounds Upgrades
A perennial fan favorite, the Wednesday pie auction already boasts 83 entered pies. Proceeds are split 50/50 between the bakers and the ongoing maintenance of the Arts & Crafts Building.
Visitors will also benefit from recent fairground infrastructure updates, including the newly air-conditioned Arts & Crafts Building—home to quilts, floral displays, and youth hobbies—and the upgraded show arena entering its second full fair season.