The Webster County Fair begins Wednesday and continues through Sunday on the fairgrounds at 22770 Old Highway 169.

It will feature all of the traditional 4-H and FFA livestock exhibits, plus other projects completed by the youth of those organizations. The fair royalty will be crowned early in the event so that the king and queen can be on hand for all the festivities that will follow.

In addition to the farm-related activities, there will also be a full slate of entertainment. There will be Mini Madness, plus the ATV and Tough Truck races. A truck and tractor pull will be held.

The entertainment will feature performances by Rocketman Valencio — The Human Cannonball. Fairgoers will also get to see Wolves of the Wild and play a game of Agri Golf.

So there will be plenty for everyone to see, do and enjoy.

And there will be plenty of refreshment options for anyone who gets hungry or thirsty while enjoying the fair.

The Webster County Fair is part of a rich tradition of fairs throughout Iowa.

For as far back as anyone who now lives in this part of Iowa can remember, fairs like the Webster County version that opens today have been much-anticipated and much-enjoyed features of summertime.

The fairs, of course, have changed over the decades. One central theme, however, remains much the same — a celebration of farm life and the assorted positive educational and personal-growth pursuits that are treasured features of life in rural and small-town Iowa.

It is more than just 4-H and FFA events, but the central focus of much that transpires at them is a celebration of the hard work 4-H’ers and FFA members have put forth on a wide array of projects during the last year. The fair affords 4-H’ers and FFA members well-deserved opportunities to showcase their endeavors. For some, it is the culmination of the year’s efforts. For others, it is one stop on the way to the Iowa State Fair.

Anyone who has taken a careful look at contemporary 4-H can’t help but be impressed by the breadth of the projects 21st-century 4-H promotes. Some would be familiar to fairgoers of the past. The assorted agricultural and handicraft projects, though reflecting much new knowledge and science, certainly have roots in fairs of yesteryear. Other projects, exhibits and events illustrate the needs and interests of young people in this rapidly changing world and are far removed from yesterday’s pursuits. FFA, similarly, has a distinctly 21st-century focus.

So plan to join your neighbors at the fair. You’ll be glad you did.