The GJCF has something for everyone

     The Great Jones County Fair in Monticello offers activities, events, and fun for the whole family. Whether you prefer to take in a 4-H/FFA animal-judging show, take your turn on the rides, taste the best fair food around, or enjoy an evening of nationally-known musicians… the GJCF is the place to be in 2017!

Monday, July 17

     While the Five Best Days of Summer don’t typically start until Wednesday, there is a change to the fair schedule this year.

     The Open Horse Show will kick off the week at 4 p.m. at the new equestrian center.

     Monday is also an important date because it’s entry day for all 4-H/FFA F.A.S.T. projects, as well as Open Exhibit projects.

Tuesday, July 18

     The 4-H/FFA Dog Show kicks off at 10:30 a.m. The fair’s “Sneak-A-Peek” (free gate admission) starts at 6 p.m., with food concessions open at that time as well. Carnival ride specials run from 6-11 p.m. The motocross begins at 6:30 p.m. on the track.

     During this time, a brief intermission will be held to introduce the candidates vying for 2017 GJCF Queen and Princess. The crowning will take place around 6:30 p.m. on the stage.

Wednesday, July 19

     The 4-H/FFA shows are in full swing on Wednesday: Sheep Show at 8:30 a.m., Bucket/Bottle Calf Show at 10:30, Dairy Cattle Show at 11, Goat Show at 10, with the Kiddie Goat Show to follow, and the Kiddie Dairy Show at 1 p.m. The Rabbit Show starts at 2 p.m.

     Other events throughout the day include: East Central Iowa Pullers Association Tractor Pull at 11 a.m., Kiddie Pedal Pull at the Livestock Pavilion at 3:30 p.m., and the NTPA National Regional 4-Wheel Drive Truck/Tractor Pull at 7 p.m. on the track.

Thursday, July 20

     Enjoy more 4-H/FFA shows on Thursday: Swine Show at 8:30 a.m., Cat Show at 9, and the Other Animal Show at 10:30. Harness Racing will be held on the track beginning at 11 a.m.

     The day ends with a concert on the stage at 8 p.m. featuring Nickelback with special guest Daughtry.

Friday, July 21

     4-H/FFA judging shows on Friday: Beef Show at 9 a.m. and the Poultry Show (meat birds only) at 2 p.m. A return of the 4-H/FFA Livestock Quiz-a-thon, will be held at 9 a.m.

     At 8 p.m. on the stage, enjoy country music artist Thomas Rhett with special guests Big & Rich.

Saturday, July 22

     4-H/FFA shows continue into Saturday with the second half of the Poultry Show (breeding birds only) at 9 a.m., the Prime Steer Show at 12:30 p.m., and the Kiddie Beef Show at 4 p.m. The popular Stock Car Races on the dirt track start at 11 a.m.

     The Log Hoggers’ wood sculpture auction is at 4 p.m.

     The return of Keith Urban with special guest Frankie Ballard kicks off at 8 p.m. on the stage.

Sunday, July 23

     The final day of the GJCF includes the 4-H/FFA Horse Show at 9 a.m., Open Swine Show at noon, and Mutton Bustin’ at 3 p.m. The Log Hoggers’ auction continues again at 4 p.m.

     Other Sunday events include: the BBQ Contest all day. This year, organizers added a kids’ division. The church service and special music will take place on the free stage at 9 a.m. The ever-popular demolition derby will be held on the track beginning at 11 a.m.

     The Five Best Days of Summer conclude at 7 p.m. with MercyMe and special guest Crowder on the stage.

Other regular weekly activities

     The 4-H/FFA Expo Hall exhibits and Food Stand from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. Carnival ride specials Wednesday through Saturday are offered from 1-6 p.m. and 6-11 p.m. The Kids’ Zone open every day from 1-5 p.m. The Open Class Exhibit Hall will be open from 11:30 a.m. to 8 p.m. (11:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Sunday), with the Commercial Exhibit Hall open from 11:30 a.m. to 8:30 p.m. (11:30 a.m. to 7 p.m. on Sunday).

     For a complete list of fair events, visit www.greatjonescountyfair.com.