Several new events coming to this year’s WC Fair

While the 2024 Whitley County Fair will be bringing back the many crowd-favorite events that have become staples over the years, this year’s fair will include several new ones that are sure to delight festivalgoers.

Among the new events planned this year is the Jurassic Mark Dinosaur Encounter, which will be available each night of the fair. According to Mark Comley, who travels around the country performing the event, it is a “fun, entertaining and educational” experience for kids of all ages.

The encounter features several life-size dinosaurs. While the dinosaurs are operated by a person, they do have animatronic-like features.

Comley said he will be performing two or three shows each night, depending on the crowd. There will be opportunities for children to interact with the dinosaurs and get their pictures taken with them as well.

There will be no additional cost for the dinosaur encounter.

Another new event this year is Fair Idol. This local spin on the hit television series “American Idol” will see contestants compete to see who has the best singing voice.

Fair Idol is schedule for Saturday, July 20 at noon on the main stage.

Anyone interested in participating can find a registration form on the Whitley County Fair’s Facebook page. Forms can be turned in at the Whitley County Judge-Executive’s Office at the Whitley County Courthouse or at the main tent at the fairground beginning Wednesday, July 17.

Last but not least, there will also be hot air balloon rides available during this year’s fair.

The rides will cost $5 per person, per ride and will only be available Saturday, July 20 from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m.

Though it is not new this year, the mullet contest is set to return for its second straight year.

There are four groups for the contest, including: toddler (5 years old and under), child (6 to 12 years old), teen (13 to 18 years old) and adult (18 years old and up).

Only natural hair is allowed. Mullets will be judged on length, quality and overall appearance.

The contest will take place Saturday, July 20 at 2 p.m. at the main tent. Anyone hoping to compete must arrive by 1 p.m to register.