It’s Nevada County Fair time – and time to “Kick It Up!” at this year’s Fair. Happening August 10 – 14, the Nevada County Fair features five days of fun for Fair-goers of all ages. Held under the shade of the tall pine trees in Grass Valley, the Nevada County Fair is the perfect opportunity to listen to musical entertainment, eat delicious food, enjoy carnival rides and games, visit barns full of animals, and see thousands of exhibits – all in a community-friendly environment.

New this year is the comedy Cajun cooking show, Kids Pedal Tractor Pulls, and the Great American Speedway Crazy Animal Races. Check out the livestock obstacle courses, the trick roper and bull whip artist, glass blowing demonstrations, the 30^th Annual Hay Bucking contest, horse and stock dog demonstrations, and the small animal costume contests.

In the arena, Wednesday and Thursday night is the Flying U Extreme Rodeo; Friday and Saturday night features Tuff Trucks and Monster Trucks; and Sunday night is the popular Destruction Derby. This year’s Rodeo will feature a jumping bull fighter; as well as local barrel racing, a coin dig for kids, and Mutton Bustin’.  All arena events begin at 7 pm.

Enjoy ongoing, musical entertainment at one of the outdoor stages featuring more than 25 musicians and bands throughout the Fair. Enjoy smooth jazz from Cool Heat, Bluegrass from Nevada County’s Banner Mountain Boys, country and pop songs by Colleen Heauser, Classic Rock and Roll by West Coast Juice and Sgt Funky, and the Nathan Owens Sounds of Motown.   Don’t miss this year’s tribute bands – Life in the Fast Lane (the songs of the Eagles) and Cherry Bomb (a tribute to John Mellencamp).

Enter one of the special contests for adults and kids held daily in the Special Events tent. There’s a Jell-O Eatin’ Contest, Critter Cackles contest, Duct Tape Art Challenge, Live Art Battle, diaper derby, “Minute to Win It” fun, squash mobile races, and nightly karaoke. No pre-registration required – just show up and have fun.

A visit to the Fair wouldn’t be complete without a visit to Treat Street. It is here that you’ll find an array of delicious foods and drinks – pasties, tacos, corn on the cob, beer, tri-tip sandwiches, baked potatoes, nachos, hamburgers, corn dogs, caramel corn, and more. When you eat on Treat Street, you are supporting local nonprofit organizations.

Purchase your tickets at the Fair Gate or online.

Put on your boots and get ready to “Kick It Up” at this year’s Nevada County Fair, August 10 – 14.  The Nevada County Fairgrounds is located at 11228 McCourtney Road in Grass Valley.