By TONY GUERRERO
Hays Post
The Ellis County Fair is rolling out days of entertainment and activities for all ages.
The fair runs from July 11 to 19 and features rodeos, wrestling and exciting prize-filled races.
"We're gonna do frog and turtle races, minnow races and probably a water balloon toss," Ellis County Fair Vice President Jill Pfannenstiel said.
Events for kids to look forward to include:
- Thorni Ridge Exotics Petting Zoo: Entry is free, but you must pay to feed animals or ride camels and horses. It is open from 6 to 10 p.m. July 15-19 at the Midway.
- Balloon artist: Free balloon creations from 6 to 10 p.m. July 15-19 at the Midway.
- Kids games: Frog and turtle races, minnow races and a water balloon toss. Bring your own frogs and turtles. Begins at 7 p.m. July 16 at the Midway.
- Nutrien Coloring Contest: Kids bring completed coloring pages for judging and prizes. It starts at 7 p.m. July 16 at the Midway Stage.
- Sunflower Clydesdales wagon rides: From 7 to 9 p.m. July 16-18 at the Midway.
- Little Kids and Big Rigs: Hands-on exploration of big machinery and vehicles. The first 50 kids receive a free carnival armband. Runs from 6 to 7:30 p.m. July 17 at the Midway.
- Lego bricks building contest: Kids or teams build themed creations for judging and prizes. The contest begins at 2 p.m. July 17 at Deutschefest Hall.
- Kids tractor pedal pull: Compete for a chance to qualify for the Kansas State Fair at 7 p.m. July 18 at the Midway.
- Mutton Bustin': Rodeo event where kids ride sheep. Begins at 6:30 p.m. July 15 and 16 at the Rodeo Arena. Registration is at 6 p.m. both days.
- Inflatable carnival and laser tag: Activities require a $13 paid wristband. Open from 6 to 10 p.m. July 15-19 at the Midway.
Tickets for the fair can be purchased in advance here or at the gate. A pass covering seven events costs $40, and a single-night admission costs $20. Children age 5 and younger get in free.
You can follow the Ellis County Fair on Facebook.
