Competitive events abound at Harford Fair

The fairgrounds in Harford were bustling Friday as exhibitors arrived with entries and finishing touches were happening in an effort to get ready for the Monday, Aug. 19 opening of the 162nd Harford Fair.

Heidi Cross was crowned as the 2019 Harford Fair Queen and Bridget Bendock will serve as the Alternate Queen. PHOTO COURTESY HARFORD FAIR

Harford Fair Director Heather Winn pointed out the array of trophies on display at the Information Center. “The week is chalk full of competitive events,” she said. Events – and the handing out of the prizes – culminate with Saturday’s Demolition Derby where the winner receives a 3 and a half foot high trophy.

“The trophies will be continuously on display until they are given away throughout the week,” Winn said.

One change returning visitors will find is the new poultry barn. The barn which previously housed the chickens, poultry and water fowl was taken down. The barn was the original dining hall, and converted over to the poultry building in the 1800s.

Also on the south side of the fairgrounds, visitors can find the Butterfly House, Scranton Aquarium and the Hogway Speedway – all open to visitors at no additional charge.

“We know the fair can be pricey for families,” Winn said of the free offerings, “so we do whatever we can to keep costs down.”

The barns – empty on Friday – were filled with animals Sunday.

2018 Harford Fair Queen Hannah Decker explained that the animals are first weighed to make sure they qualify for judging.

“As impressive as the Main Arena is, the Cattle Arena is important for young folks who work with their animals all year,” Decker said.

Decker, a 2019 graduate of Elk Lake High School, ended her reign with the crowning of this year’s queen on Monday afternoon.

Heidi Cross, of Kingsley, was crowned as the 2019 Harford Fair Queen and presented a scholarship by the PA Trappers Association.

Bridget Bendock, of Montrose, was selected to serve as the Alternate Fair Queen.

The 162nd Harford Fair continues through Saturday. Admission is $6 for visitors ages 12 and over. Free parking is available. Gates open at 8 a.m. each day; and exhibit halls open at 10 a.m.

For information on daily specials, featured contests and events, visit www.harfordfair.com or find the Harford Fair on Facebook.