A fair like never before: Clark County Fair adds new elements and keeps staples

Fan favorites Butterfly Adventures and Pirate’s Parrot Show are back at the Clark County Fair. But expect new elements this year, too, including a dinosaur exhibit, thrilling carnival ride and an extended rodeo experience.

“There’s a tremendous amount to see,” said John Morrison, Clark County Fair manager. “Our theme is, ‘We’ve got it all.’ And I’ll guarantee you, we’ve got it all.”

Opening day is Friday, and the fair continues through Aug. 11.

Although admission prices increased last year, they remain the same this year — $12 for adults, $9 for kids. And discount days are here to stay, Morrison said. Opening day admission is free from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. with a valid coupon from participating Southwest Washington Fred Meyer locations, and today is the last day to snag one.

Download the newly developed Clark County Fair app on a mobile device to check out the schedule to plan your visit, navigate attractions and find specific food carts.

“I think it’s going to be a big hit and give people a great idea of how to spend their time most efficiently and effectively here at the fair,” Morrison said.

Take a trip back to the Jurassic era with the new attraction Dino Encounters. Dinosaur-themed entertainment and adventurous activities fill an 18,000-square-foot indoor space, including a 78-foot-long T-Rex inflatable obstacle course, fossil exploration, scooters, puzzles and more.

“We try to make sure that every year the fair has something new for people who are regular attendees,” Morrison said. “We do have a new, super spectacular ride coming.”

The Khaos constantly changes the orientation of riders on it and flies them high in the air.

The first fair weekend has concerts lined up at the grandstand. Billy Currington kicks off the concerts Friday with his country-western music. Sublime with Rome performs rock jams Saturday. And country pop artist Chris Janson takes the stage Sunday. Free grandstand seating is available with fair admission.

It’s not the fair’s first rodeo, but this year’s expands to two days at the grandstand — bull riding on Monday and Hell on Hooves Rodeo on Tuesday, both at 7 p.m. Mutton Bustin’ events will begin at 2 p.m. on both those days as well. Kids under 50 pounds can ride a sheep, hold on tight, and stay on for as long as possible to win a prize.

“This is not a carnival. It’s not a livestock show. It’s not a shopping mall. It’s all of that,” Morrison said. “It’s everything that people would think of, and it’s in an environment where families can feel very comfortable spending the entire day together.”