Fun for All at McHenry County Fair

The McHenry County Fair returns this summer and it’s an event not to miss, especially given that last year’s festivities were sidelined due to COVID-19. Serving the Chicago area for more than 70 years, this McHenry County tradition continues with a six-day event that kicks off Tuesday, Aug. 3, and runs through Sunday, Aug. 8, at the McHenry County Fairgrounds in Woodstock.

From the official opening at noon on Tuesday through the final closing gate at 8 p.m. Sunday, there’s fun for the whole family all week long. Favorites include the traditional 4-H displays, Open and Junior Open livestock and non-livestock shows, a carnival, Miss McHenry County Pageant, monster truck races, tractor pulls, a demolition derby, bull riding and more. Gates are generally open to the public daily starting at 7 a.m.

In addition to all the of the daytime attractions at the fair, there’s plenty of fun once the sun goes down. Grandstand entertainment happens every night and includes a draft horse pull and a professional championship bullriding competition. On Saturday night, classic rock group Kansas arrives with special guest Femmes of Rock. Tickets can be purchased online at mchenrycountyfair.com.

Purchase general admission tickets at the gate or online, for either a single-day entry or a six-day admission. Tuesday is Family Fun Day, and tickets are only $5. Veterans and Scouts in uniform get a free admission on Wednesday with accompanying paid adult, first responders get free admission on Thursday with accompanying paid adult, and health care workers get free admission on Friday with accompanying paid adult. Other special offers can be viewed online.

The McHenry County Fair is where families come to create summertime memories that last a lifetime. Mark your calendars, because this year’s event promises to be bigger and better than ever. ❚

The McHenry County Fair happens Aug. 3-8 at the McHenry County Fairgrounds, 11900 Country Club Road, in Woodstock, (815) 338-5315.