2019 marks the 99th year that the Bonners Ferry community has enjoyed the excitement of its annual Boundary County Fair—with 2020 to mark its centennial! A tradition that continues year after year, the fair offers four days of smiles, laughter and enjoyment for all ages.
Held at the Boundary County Fairgrounds August 14 through 17, this year’s theme is “It’s All the Buzz.”
Opening ceremonies will take place Wednesday, August 14 at 6:30pm in the Indoor Arena, with the baked goods auction held during opening ceremonies. $2,100 was raised last year, with the money used to help put a new roof on the Exhibit Hall. Fair hours are 9am to 9pm Thursday through Saturday.
Fair goers can still expect the traditional fair events (fair vendors, monster cookie contest, veggie critter contest, salsa contest, Dutch oven cooking contest, livestock auction, lumberjack show, Saturday games on the Memorial Hall lawn and Family Fun Night), according to Paula Burt, fair administrator. But this year there will be a few new activities to add to the fun. “Hubbard Hay is sponsoring a hay/straw bale decorating contest they hope to make an annual event, as well as Safeway is sponsoring games for those of all ages in the Indoor Arena on Saturday afternoon. There is a vendor bringing in an inflatable water slide!” On Saturday, you won’t want to miss the parade starting at noon!
Admission to the fair is always free for all ages thanks to the tremendous support and contributions from local businesses and community members.
“(The fair) is one of the times we see members of the community come together and have a fun time,” says Paula. “Many people volunteer hours of their time to make sure the fair is a success. It’s a great way to meet new people and see the many talents of Boundary County citizens.”
For more detailed information on entries and other events happening at the fair, you’ll want to pick up a fair book at the fair office or 4-H Extension office. They can also be found at various locations around town.
Whether you attend the fair year after year or you’ve never been, good old-fashioned fun awaits. So don’t forget to mark your calendars for the 2019 Boundary County Fair!