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The Osceola County Fair is about food, fun, games, rides and See Page 7. entertainment, as it’s been for 80 years. It opens again on Friday. FILE PHOTO -
Osceola County Fair, Feb. 9-18
More than 100,000 people are estimated to make their way to the Osceola County Fair and Livestock Show to celebrate its 80th year of fun at Osceola Heritage Park, starting Friday through Feb. 18.
In a fitting celebration, officials are offering 80 minutes of free admission and free rides to anyone who visits from noon to 1:20 p.m. on Saturday, Feb. 10.
General Manager Joel Rose said what makes the event so special is that there is something for everyone.
“We’re able to provide a vast variety of both food and entertainment that encompasses everybody who comes to the fair. And, you know, that’s really, really hard to do at times,” he said. “When you can get an event that’s going on each and every year that has something for everybody, no matter what your background is, I believe that’s a win-win situation.
“We’re really proud to have been around for 80 years, continuing to contribute to our community. As we celebrate this significant milestone, it’s heartening to see the fair continue to evolve, grow and wow more people than ever. This is a testament to our commitment to keeping the fair dynamic and engaging, ensuring it remains a cornerstone of community spirit in Osceola County.”
Guests who attend the fair can enjoy the traditional festivities, such as livestock shows and cracker competitions, classic rides, and roller coasters, such as the Fireball and the Sky Flyer, that have become a staple of the event. And, of course, guests with an empty stomach should also be excited about trying the famous fair foods, ranging from fried Oreos to corndogs, turkey legs and funnel cake.
This year also marks the second time the Demolition Derby (this Sunday, 6 p.m.) is returning to the fairground in recent years. Rose is especially excited to see this event return to form. “We’ve already had triple the number of registrations for cars this year, which is going to make the show even bigger and better for our patrons that come,” he said.
The Osceola Idol competition (this Saturday, 4 p.m. on the main stage)— think “American Idol” with local competition— debuted last year and is back by popular demand this year.
“It is a singing competition with three huge prizes for first, second and third place,” Rose said. “That’s very favorable for us to provide community talent to come out and showcase themselves, and we’re happy to do that. Aside from one special invitation band that we have coming, all of our entertainment is local. We felt that it’s very, very important to provide our local entertainment an opportunity to come here and showcase themselves to all of our community.”
All events are listed on the County Fair website (www.osceolacountyfair.com), which lists the performances and show schedule, and also includes daily specials on admission discounts, event promotions, and reduced rates on unlimited ride wristbands.
