Sentinel file photo
Youth work with heifers prior to a previous year’s Mifflin County Youth Fair.

REEDSVILLE — The Mifflin County Youth Fair is “more than just a fair — it’s the heart beat of Mifflin County,” says Bobbi Sheaffer, the Fair Queen’s coordinator.

“It’s where the spotlight shines on our future agricultural leaders, where the hands that feed and grow our communities are celebrated with pride.”

For more than 70 years, the Mifflin County Youth Fair has prided itself on having something for everyone. This year, the fair runs from Saturday,

Aug. 2, through Saturday, Aug. 9, at Mifflin County Youth Park on 110 W Logan St., Reedsville.

This year’s Fair has some new features, Sheaffer said.

“We’ve pulled out all the stops — from high-energy entertainment to brand-new food vendors that’ll make your taste buds dance. There’s something fresh and exciting waiting,” she said. “We’ve also added incredible local talent to the lineup, creating the perfect blend of hometown pride and family fun. The Mifflin County Youth Fair is a tribute to everything people hold dear: a strong sense of community, a touch of nostalgia, the thrill of friendly competition, and the joy of simple, wholesome fun. It’s a place where memories are made.”

Shaeffer shared that the fair committee is anticipating “record breaking numbers” this year. She invited Fairgoers to “come hungry and be ready to explore.”

Sheaffer thanked area sponsors for continued support.

“Their continued support allows us to put on this yearly event. Be sure to swing by the barns, where you’ll find hardworking 4-H and FFA members tending to the animals they’ve raised with passion, dedication, and countless hours of care. Then make your way to the Green Building–bursting with creativity, talent, and community pride through 4-H, FFA, and Open Show exhibits.

The event starts at 7 p.m. Saturday with a fair queen contest.

Check-in and registration begin Sunday at 1 p.m. with animal check-in for 4-H and FFA members; open show registration begins at 5 p.m.

Monday is when the fun begins and the fair officially kicks off. The opening ceremony for the 2025 Mifflin County Youth Fair starts at 5 p.m., followed by the opening of amusement rides and concession stands opening at 6 p.m., which close at 10 p.m. There will also be stage entertainment by Autumn’s Juke Box Duo from 7-10 p.m. In regards to 4-H activities, a swine show will be held at 6 p.m. with a celebrity milking contest in the horse arena at 6:30 p.m.

Tuesday night, the fun continues, with rides and concessions opening at the same time as Monday, and stage entertainment from Hillbilly Diesel. At 6 p.m., open show baked goods will be featured and entertainment from the Logan Guard Drumline and Bugle. Also happening Tuesday night, kiddy and intermediate tractor pulls and an antique tractor parade.

Moving into Wednesday, rides and concession times as well as stage entertainment times remain the same, with stage entertainment from Chris Woodward and Shindiggin. A beef show is set for 6:30 p.m. and In special Wednesday night events, a watermelon eating contest is on the agenda, with a $2 entry fee, the contest will begin at 6:45 p.m. A giant sundae open show is to follow at 7 p.m.

Thursday is jam packed, starting with a 9 a.m. poultry show, a 2 p.m. cloverbud livestock show, at 4 p.m., an air rifle tournament with an archery tournament to follow at 5 p.m. Next, a Power Wheels derby at 6 p.m. and an American Farm Warrior competition at 7. Also at 7 p.m., a dairy show. To finish out the night, ride some rides and check out stage entertainment by “Velveeta.”

Friday starts your weekend off right with children’s and 4-H and FFA alumni day. From 10 a.m. to noon, find children’s activities in the pavilion. From 11 a.m. to 2 p.m., a special kids meal will be provided by the 4-H food stand. At 12:30 p.m. a 4-H and FFA animal costume contest will take place. Then, at 1 p.m. head to the stage for story time, presented by the Mifflin County Library, and stick around for the kids entertainment at 1:30 p.m., by KJ Slime. Also take advantage of the kids day special and purchase a wristband for only $15, good for the whole day. During the evening, stage entertainment will be provided by Chris Strait. At 7 p.m., a supreme showman contest and a tractor driving contest.

On the final day of the fair, rides and concessions will open at 4 p.m. and remain open until 10 p.m. while stage entertainment, by Derek Heidel, will begin at 6:30 and conclude at 9:30. A meal will be provided in the pavilion beginning at 2 p.m. and will be handed out until it is sold out. From 5 to 8, get your face painted for free by Faces by Leah. At 6 p.m., an open show benefit auction as well as children’s rodeo events with regular rodeo events set to begin at 7 p.m.

For more information, or to view a complete list of events, visit www.mcyouthfair.org.