PIPESTONE, Minn. - The Pipestone County Fair kicked off Wednesday with a sunny day and with new features waiting to be enjoyed by the community.
Skip Moeller, president of the Pipestone County Fair, said the board tries to make changes every year in terms of programming and trying to upgrade its facilities. This year, the community is able to enjoy a new show barn, a new poultry barn and new food stands. Finally, for the board is looking forward to developing a new beef and dairy barn in the future.
As one of the new events -- at noon Friday, weather permitting -- there will be hot air balloon rides given as a tribute to prisoners of war and those missing in action. Kids will be able to ride the balloon free of charge. On Saturday morning, the balloon will take off on a free flight and sail away for a couple of hours.
“I think we are going to have a lot of people that are going to come out and participate and try it,” Moeller said. “I just hope we can have as many people in the balloon so they can experience it and so that we can also bring it back in future years.”
The main goal of the event is to spread awareness about the struggles and difficulties of veterans.
ADVERTISEMENT
“It’s a tribute to veterans, to all our armed forces -- it’s basically trying to promote the USA,” Moeller said.
On another front, one of the most traditional and cherished events of any county fair is the display of 4-H projects. Children of all ages have worked throughout the year to put together projects that are divided in two main categories: livestock and general exhibits.
According to Pipestone County 4-H Program Coordinator Brandi Raatz, there are approximately 1,000 livestock and general exhibits on display. Among the most popular shows are beef, horse and poultry.
Eric Pieta has been coming to the Pipestone County Fair for many years and has always competed with livestock, showing different animals. He has won several awards in both livestock and general categories over the years..
This year, Pieta is showing dairy as well as general exhibits.
“It is just fun and it keeps you out of trouble,” said Pieta. “You have a lot to do, and it's a good experience. I think every kid should try and participate in it at one point in their life.”
