The Dunn County Fair is turning up the charm this summer with the debut of its Planter/Container Decorating Contest, bringing bursts of color and creativity to the fairgrounds.
Local organizations have been invited to craft festive, themed planters inspired by this year’s theme: “Stars, Stripes and Summer Nights,” said Deb Gotlibson, President of the Dunn County Fair Board.
The fair returns this year on Wednesday, July 23, and concludes on Sunday, July 27. Since 1885, the residents of Dunn County and western Wisconsin have been able to enjoy the Dunn County Fair in July.
Scattered throughout the grounds this year, the planters will serve not only as eye-catching decor but as a celebration of community spirit, Gotlibson said.
“Adding the planter contest is a simple idea with a big impact,” Gotlibson said. “It creates a welcoming visual experience while showcasing the creativity of groups across Dunn County.”
Participating organizations can use anything they want for the container and will receive a $20 donation for their participation. Judging takes place Tuesday afternoon, July 22. The planters then will be distributed among the fairgrounds, and the organizations can retrieve them after the fair.
Gotlibson also said she is excited that a petting zoo, replete with a bearded dragon, will be back at the zoo. It will be open from 9:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. Thursday; 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. Friday and Saturday; and noon to 4 p.m. on Sunday.
“It will be an assortment of animals, and they will switch them out as needed so the animals get a break,” she said.
Admission remains at $5 for the day or $15 for season. Children six and under are free, as is parking.
“You can come here and get a lot of fun for just $5,” Gotlibson said.
