Monroe County's best: Your guide to the West End Fair
The West End Fair celebrates its centennial in 2022. Here's your guide to the best of the fair in Gilbert.
Sights and sounds throughout the Fairgrounds
Starting Sunday, Aug. 21, you and your family can enjoy a cornucopia of live entertainment at the West End Fair's numerous stages. After a morning and afternoon full of Quarter Midget Racing, Kids' Pedal Pull and the 100th Anniversary Parade, head on over to the Opening Ceremony to kick off the fair right.
The event, slated for 3 to 4 p.m. on the Main Stage, will also feature the coronation of this year's Fair Queen. Give thanks for this year's bounty at the Vesper service slated for after the ceremony from 4 to 4:30 p.m., then be sure to stick around for Chris Eckert's "Tribute to Country's Greatest Stars at 4:45. Eckert, who is also this year's fair MC, pays "homage to classic country's best loved performers such as George Jones, Merle Haggard, John Cash" and more.
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Other acts include: Joe Bonson & Coffee Run (6:30 and 8 p.m. Sunday), Dean Hahn & The Hawks (3 and 4:30 p.m., Monday, Aug. 22) The Pleasant Valley High School band (5:30 p.m. Monday), Whey Jennings (yes, of Jennings family fame, 6:30 and 8:30 p.m. Monday.) Other can't miss acts include the Swing Time Dolls, performances by Cartesion Dance Academy, Fusia Dance Center, Levels Dance Studio and McElligott School of Irish Dance.
Also on tap are demolition derbies, quarter midget racing and more at the Main Arena. Don't miss the fireworks show slated for 9:30 p.m. on Sunday, Aug. 21.
There are live shows and events happening every day of the fair, for a full list, go to thewestendfair.com/events.
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All about that Fair Life
Be sure to pick up your map of the West End Fair at various locations on the Fairgrounds in Gilbert. A digital version of the map is available online.
Don't miss the Pocono Old-Tyme Farm Museum east of the Main Gate, or spend a day enjoying the livestock exhibits near Livestock Lane and Jackson Road. Kids can enjoy the Agricultural Education Arena and experience being a "Farmer for a Day."
Look upon the best in Monroe County agriculture at this year's exhibits. To check out this year's premium book, head to thewestendfair.com and select "EXHIBITS" from the menu.
Good eatin' at the Fair
Adults 21 and over can quench their thirst at the West End Fair "Pub" for a prime selection of local brews and wines. Featuring Barley Creek Brewing Company, Five Maidens Cider Company, Mountain View Vineyard, Pocono Brewery Company, Shawnee Craft Brewing Company and Boyd's Cardinal Hollow Winery.
No county fair would be complete without a few down home treats. Enjoy classic funnel cake from the PTO Booth along the Main Midway, or pick up some grub from the kitchen or any of the other food booths hosted by Salem UCC Church, West End Fire Company and more.
Every dog has it's day
Has the West End Fair gone to the dogs? You'll have to see for yourself at the Fairgrounds' Free Show Area. Check out The Marvelous Mutts will perform everyday of the fair at various times.
Watch the pups perform fabulous feats of agility, frisbee and other acrobatics, you may even catch them skateboarding if you're lucky. Learn more about The Marvelous Mutts on their Facebook page.
If you go
When: 2 to 10 p.m. Aug. 21 - 27 (agricultural buildings close at 9 p.m.)
Cost: $7 (children under 10 are free).
Info: 570 Fairground Road, Gilbert, thewestendfair.com
This article originally appeared on Pocono Record: County Fair in heart of Poconos celebrating 100 years
