There's just nothing quite like it, at least not in this area: The Cleveland County Fair is here! Since 1924 this event, which has become North Carolina's largest agricultural fair, has welcomed area residents with a traditional mix of rides, exhibits, shows, games, food and animals. More than 165,000 patrons visited last year's fair. Opening Thursday, Oct. 1, the 91st annual event will run through Sunday, Oct. 11, 2015.
Officials promise that this year's fair will provide fun and entertainment for the whole family. In addition to the 43 carnival rides, the fair will also feature a number of shows. The Zerbini Family Circus will perform twice each week night and three times on Saturdays. Other ground attractions include Friendly Farmers Barnyard Review, Kenya Safari Acrobats and Extreme Illusions & Escapes. Wednesday evening has been designated Faith & Family night and features guest speaker Christian Chapman and rapper B-SHOC. All entertainment is free with paid gate admission.
Fair Appreciation Day on Oct. 1 offers a special price of $15 that includes all rides from 4 p.m. until closing, plus free gate admission. Armband days will be Oct. 3 and Oct. 10. On these days, $18 armbands will be available for purchase from 10 a.m.-2 p.m. and will allow visitors to ride until 4 p.m. Monday is dollar day: fair-goers will get $1 off gate admission and all rides will require one less ticket. Ten buck Tuesday will feature $10 armbands that allow participants to ride until closing (regular admission will be required). Both Sundays (Oct. 4 and 11) will feature $5 admission and $18 arm bands.
Gates open weekdays 3-11 p.m., Saturdays 9 a.m.-11 p.m., and Sundays 10 a.m.-11 p.m. Visit the fair's Facebook page or www.ClevelandCountyFair.com for more information.

By APRIL HOYLE SHAUF
Special to Shelby Shopper

Photos by Kimberly Lingerfeldt