Meramec Community Fair Just Days Away

The 34th annual Meramec Community Fair is just days away as the calendar continues to move to the return of the fair following a year off from the COVID-19 pandemic.

"We are working on a number of things at this time, trying to gather up any loose ends and finalize several items," said James Bartle, Fair Board President. "There have been delays in several areas as we prepare for next week, and fair books are expected to be out any day along with event cards. You would think that an extra year to plan would make it easier, but honestly, it's been more difficult as everyone adjusts to life moving forward along with the fair."

The fair will have its unofficial kickoff on Tuesday, June 22, with the parade through downtown Sullivan out to Sunny Jim Bottomley Park.

Retiring Sullivan Police Chief George R. Counts will serve as the parade grand marshal as he is honored for his years of service and dedication to the community.

On Wednesday, the fair will kick off with the 4-H Archery event at 5:45 p.m., followed by Youth Horse Show at 6 p.m. and Gospel Night at the SHS Theatre at 7 p.m. The Gospel night location change is an attempt to make the event more accessible for those who have health conditions with the heat.

Thursday officially kicks off the 34th annual Meramec Community Fair with the Youth Pageant on the Schicker Automotive Main Stage at 5:30, followed by Queen talent, evening gown, and speech at 6:30 p.m.

The Truck and Tractor Pull returns following a two-year absence due to rain in 2019 and Covid in 2020 at 7 p.m. Pig Scramble and Super Farmer at 7 p.m. in the Saddle Club Grounds with the Contemporary Christian Night underway at 8 with Melody Brauninger, Faron Horlacher, and Rhett Walker.

Events on Friday include the Bucket Calf and Pee Wee Bucket Calf Show at 4 p.m.; Antique Tractor Pull at 7 p.m., Bulls and Barrels Rodeo at 7 p.m. and rising country music star Jon Langston on the Schicker Automotive Main Stage followed by country icons Little Texas.

Things on Saturday will begin early with the Livestock Auction at 10 a.m., which will not include a buyers luncheon due to restrictions, along with the Kiddie Tractor Pull.

The Demo Derby returns at 6 p.m. followed by Bulls and Barrels Rodeo at 7 p.m. and Kricket Alley on the Schicker Main Stage at 8 p.m., followed by the return of Meramec Community Fair alumni and country music stars Sawyer Brown.

Season passes are available for $35 and included everything but food and drink on the grounds.

Daily prices are free on Wednesday, Thursday is $15 and Friday and Saturday's daily admission is $20.

"We are looking to bounce back after the loss of a fair in 2020," said Bartle. "We had some expenses in 2020 that still had to be paid whether we held the fair or not, and this year, we want to see a great turnout from our local community and others who have missed the fairs and festivals."