Southeast Illinois' end of summer tradition, the Gallatin County Fair, kicks into high gear starting Thursday, and then things really start popping (sorry) on Saturday for the 58th annual Ridgway Popcorn Day. The festivities are all faily-friendly and all entertainment is free (except the carnival rides). For details, check the Ridgway Popcorn Day Facebook page.
Thursday, Sept. 8
5 p.m. Carnival open (armband night, $20)
5 p.m. Kids Corner & Crafts open
5 p.m. Little Miss & Mister Pageant; Little Lassie & Junior Miss Pageant; Queen Contest to immediately follow.
7 p.m. Little Kiddie Tractor Pull, sponsored by Gallatin County FFA
7 p.m. Gospel Night, at the fire station. Bring lawn chairs.
Friday, Sept. 9
5 p.m. Carnival open (armbands $20)
5 p.m. Kids Corner & Crafts open
6 p.m. 5K race at St. Joseph Field
6-8 p.m. Shades of Grey, on main stage
8:30-10:30 p.m. Just Dudes Being Guys, on main stage
Saturday, Sept. 10<.b>
9:30 a.m.-dusk. Helicopter rides at St. Joseph Field
9:30 p.m. Kiddie Parade
10 a.m. Kids Corner & Crafts open
10 a.m. Contests -- frog jumping, popcorn eating and bubble gum blowing
10:30 a.m. Cake Walk
11 a.m.-10 p.m. Carnival open (armbands $20)
1 p.m. Popcorn Day parade
On main stage after parade: Olivia Rubright.
4 p.m. Parade awards, on main stage
5 p.m. Western Horse show, at the fairgrounds
7-8:45 p.m. Blackford Creek, on main stage
9-11:30 p.m. Tailgate Revival, on main stage
Sunday, Sept. 11
Western Horse Show at fairgrounds. Trainers at noon, and Western Show immediately follows.
