Watchford County Festival Brings Old and New Cultures Together

The Watchford County fairgrounds have been busy with preparations for this year's county fair. Hosted by the Watchford County Historical Society, this years fair began last Saturday and will run for two weeks, closing on July 16.
The fair involves rides, food, entertainment and competition in multiple categories. A schedule of events is available on watchfordcountyfair.com.
Headlining the fair this year are The Futuristic Bikers, who are well-known for their onstage antics in addition to their hard-rock sound. The Bikers got their start at the fair, first performing in 1999. Since then, their sound, and their crazy rides, have become a staple of the Watchford County Fair.
"We've really expanded our act in the 11 years we've been together." said frontman Mike "Hog" Roberts, "and we appreciate the recognition as the headliner this year."


Futuristic Bikers singer Mike "Hog" Roberts at the wheel

Also playing at this year's fair is The Deadbeats, Ryan High Genius, and a special Battle of the Bands on Saturday, July 9. The Battle of the Bands is a new addition at this year's fair, showcasing 10 of the best local bands. Planners hope that it will become an annual tradition.
"We tried to find the best for this competition, from the competitors to the judges." said Battle planner Jim Harpy.
For the other competitions, the popular baking and sculpture contests will be returning, in addition to the traditional livestock and crop contests.
New this year is two competitions giving nods to Watchford's Native American Heritage. Tribal Dancing and Native Costumes have been added, each with a $500 first place prize.
"We would like to pay homage to the history of Watchford County," said Historical Society President Mary Lassic.
Several local groups have shown interest in these new categories, and it is expected that the dances will be a draw at the opening of the festival.
"We have worked hard to prepare for the competition, and we expect it to be steep." said Sarah Redwood, a member of local dance troop Tribal Waves.


Members of Tribal Waves reherse for the new Tribal Dance competition.

The rides this year are being provided by Carnival Connections, after the disastrous accident last year with the Ferris wheel provided by Attractions Unlimited Inc. Though there were talks of removing rides this year, fears that attendance would greatly drop prevented this move.
Despite the fears, there have been greater steps to ensure the safety of all festival-goers.
"We've made an effort to run every ride through extensive safety inspections and precautions." said Carnival Connections Vice President Andrew Owen.
"We are looking forward to this festival," said County Commissioner Fred Baker. "This is a great opportunity to showcase the best of Watchford County."
Last year's festival brought in over $100,000 to Watchford county after expenses. The majority is donated to various community services including the Watchford Improvement Fund and the Youth Development Commission. Both groups are dedicated to improving life in Watchford now and in the future.