A Century of Tradition: The Cleveland County Fair Turns 100
By: Lauren Ramsey – Wise News Network
Shelby, NC (WNN) — This year marks the 100th Anniversary of the Cleveland County Fair, North Carolina’s largest and oldest agricultural fair. Founded in 1924, the fair has always been an important part of the community. Despite the disruptions caused by Hurricane Helene, it continues to attract crowds ready to celebrate this historic milestone.
Storm Causes Delays, but the Fair Continues
Fair entertainment director Bobby McLamb shared his excitement for the centennial event despite early closures due to the hurricane. “Unfortunately, we had to close on opening day, Thursday, and again on Friday, but now we’re up and running. We’re very thankful for the numbers we’re getting,” he said.
Although the storm disrupted the first two days, the fairgrounds sustained no significant damage and never lost power. McLamb explained that the decision to close was for everyone’s safety.
Special Events Highlight the 100th Anniversary
Since reopening, the fair has been filled with excitement and activity. Special events marking the 100th Anniversary included a spectacular fireworks display and Cleveland County’s first-ever drone show. “We wanted to do something really special for the 100th year,” McLamb said. The celebration continued with Nashville recording artist and North Carolina native John Norris performing live, along with a tough truck show at the grandstand and plenty of entertainment.
Food Vendors Serve Up a Variety of Favorites
The fair’s food vendors had something for everyone, offering both traditional and unique options. Classic fair foods like hamburgers, hot dogs, and sausage dogs remain crowd favorites. For those seeking something different, there are a variety of choices, including fried Oreos, fried Twinkies, and even alligator tails. “You can find just about anything here,” McLamb said, emphasizing the diverse food options throughout the fairgrounds and highlighting the variety of food throughout the fairgrounds. Whether visitors are craving comfort food or something new, the fair offers a wide range of flavors to enjoy.
Maintenance Team Keeps the Fair Running Smoothly
Long-time fair worker Rodney Glover, who has dedicated over 40 years to the event, shared his insights on this year’s challenges. “We were lucky,” he said, noting that only a few tents were blown over, and some scattered trash needed to be picked up. The fairgrounds experienced minimal damage despite the storm’s impact on attendance.
Shine, another member of the maintenance team who has worked at the fair for six years
explained his role. “I’m a second-hand man, driving tractors,” he said. He added that it’s not
unusual to work 17-hour days during the fair. “It can be a lot, but we get the job done.”
Circle M Livestock Safari Brings Exotic Animals to the Fair
Another unique addition to the fair is the exhibit by Circle M Livestock Safari Park, located at
117 Doris Drive in Shelby. Megan Helms, representing Circle M, brought an array of animals,
including kangaroos, camels, pigs, and even an otter. “This is our second year at the Cleveland
County Fair, and we’re thrilled to be part of the 100th anniversary,” Helms said. “We’ve got all
sorts of species here, and we’re open to the public at our safari park Friday through Sunday from
10 a.m. to 5 p.m.”
Helms, who has dedicated her life to working with animals, said that despite the initial slow
attendance, things picked up after the storm. “People were taking care of their homes and
families after the hurricane, but now they’re venturing out and enjoying the fair,” she said.
Two More Days of Festivities
The Cleveland County Fair will continue through Sunday night, giving visitors a chance to experience this century-old tradition, complete with rides, food, and entertainment that the whole community can enjoy.
Want to Go or Learn More about the Cleveland County Fair?
SATURDAY, OCTOBER 5TH, 2024: $25 Armband Day and $5 Admission (9am to Noon). Gate hours 9:00am to 11:00pm.
SUNDAY, OCTOBER 6TH, 2024: $25 Armband Day and $5 Admission (11am to 2pm). Gate hours 11:00am to 11:00pm.
Cleveland County Agricultural Fair
1751 E. Marion Street
Shelby, NC 28152
For more WNN video news stories, visit YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@wisenewsnetwork.
For more WNN articles and news stories, visit: https://wisenewsnetwork.com
Contact WNN at [email protected]
Copyright 2024 Wise News Network. All rights reserved.
