Thousands braved the rain for a free pancake breakfast to kick of the event’s sesquicentennial celebration
CLARK COUNTY — The 150th Clark County Fair kicked off on Friday with the annual free pancake breakfast courtesy of Fred Meyer. At least 10,000 people braved a rare Summer rain shower to enjoy pancakes, sausage, and a free drink. If there was anything left over, Jeffery Temple, the retailer’s director of corporate affairs, says it went to the local food bank.
“We don’t just want to be in the community,” says Temple, “we want to be part of the community.”
The first Clark County Fair was held on October 21 1868 at Esther Short Park in what would become downtown Vancouver. Over the years it was known as the Harvest Show, the Columbia River Interstate Fair, and the Clarke County Fair and Dahlia Show. The only year the area had no fair was in 1942, during World War II. It moved to its current location in 1955. For more on the history of the Fair, click here.
To mark the occasion, there was a rare parade held at 1:50 on Friday afternoon. This year also marks the return of the popular Brad’s World Reptile exhibit, as well as the building of a giant sand sculpture. Musical acts include Gary Allen, Pat Benatar and Neil Giraldo, Grand Funk Railroad, and Granger Smith. Of course there’s also the popular Mutton Bustin’ and Bull Riding, extreme motocross, a demolition derby, and monster trucks.
Aside from the Grandstand entertainment you’ll find plenty of carnival rides, including the Super Shot Drop Tower, the Zillerator Coaster, Freak Out, and much more. Of course there are plenty of 4H and FFA livestock and animal exhibits and contests.
For more information about the 150th Clark County Fair, click here, and be sure to watch for more coverage here at ClarkCountyToday.com.
