Every year, Gilpin County residents – and visitors from up and down the Front Range – look forward to Gilpin County’s unique old-fashioned County Fair.

Unlike the commercial, professional fairs offered by the big counties, Gilpin’s fair is small, locally produced and (mostly) provided by local people. And no admission fee – it’s free! Yes, you get a 4-H Livestock Show and a Horse Show and Gymkhana – but you will also find a 4-H archery demonstration and a 4-H fashion show! There’s a rodeo, but the local favorite features local kids hanging on to sheep for dear life in the Mutton Bustin’ event. Not to mention everyone’s favorite dog agility trials, fun for all (especially the not-so-eager pups that don’t… quite…manage agility).

You’ll find Native Interpretive Dancers and lots of live music. Vendors from mountain communities and even from Down the Hill present all kinds of exciting wares, from knitted and leather goods to fine art to jewelry. They even get rewarded, when the Fiber & Fabric Arts judging takes place. Food booths and food trucks abound with terrific Fair fare!

Sunday begins with the delicious and legendary Pancake Breakfast, sponsored as it has been for years by the High Country Auxiliary. And then the Fair ends Sunday afternoon with rodeo and dancing – take your pick! In between, there’s more fun and games, including a pickleball tournament (how trendy!)

There’s something for everyone at the Gilpin County Fair! See the schedule on page 32 of this week’s Mountain-Ear.