Excitement and Tradition at the 174th Lake County Fair

As Tabitha Wright, 14, and Ella Roye, 13, walked off the Downdraft ride, their faces were lit with smiles. The experience was more intense than anticipated. “We were not expecting it to be that fast,” said Wright from Crown Point. “We just saw it going and thought, ‘Wait, that looks fun’.”

Kayden Verhatghe, 13, was busy shearing Sparkles before the sheep show at the Lake County Fair in Crown Point, Indiana. An eighth grader, Verhatghe has been involved with 4-H for five years, highlighting a strong commitment to the community.

The imposing Downdraft attracts attention with six cars attached to a base. Riders dangle their feet while being spun 30 feet in the air. Despite its intimidating appearance, both Wright and Roye found it enjoyable. “It was actually a lot of fun,” Roye said. They joined many visitors celebrating the opening day of the Lake County Fair. The annual event is a beloved summer tradition for them.

Meanwhile, Jordan Wagner and her daughter Hayden traveled from Berrien Springs, Michigan to participate in the sheep show. “My daughter wanted to come to another open show this year,” Wagner shared. The family regularly travels to show various animals including sheep, goats, and pigs. Wagner expressed pride in seeing her daughter engage in these activities, recalling her own experiences from childhood. “I love watching her show,” she said, appreciating the growth witnessed in her daughter’s endeavors.

Lily Hamilton, a Crown Point resident, also participated by showcasing her cochin bantam chicken. Involved with 4-H for nine years, Hamilton competed in a master showmanship class. “Showmanship is all about you and how you present the animal,” she explained. Her favorite aspect of 4-H is connecting with peers and making new friends.

Visitors like Greg and Linda Smith from Cedar Lake enjoyed exploring the animal exhibits. Linda shared, “The animals are the best part. That’s our main purpose when we come to the fair.” The fair has been a tradition for them for a decade, especially enjoying opening day.

Families like Brett Walker and Heather Miller from St. John also embraced the fair experience. Their children, Damien, 8, and Dax, 4, were eager to enjoy the activities. Dax was particularly excited about the ferris wheel. Walker and Miller appreciated how the fair provides a fun outlet for energy at the end of summer. “I’m out of stuff to plan for them, so when we’re here, there’s plenty to look at,” Miller noted, emphasizing the joy of the children’s smiles.

The Lake County Fair, continuing through August 16, promises more adventures and traditions. Admission is $8 for adults and children over 11, while kids under 10 enjoy free entry. It remains a vibrant gathering of fried foods, carnival rides, and 4-H showcases.