A year of preparation and navigating the unprecedented challenges of COVID-19 has led up to the annual Guthrie County Fair kicking off today.

Thursday’s schedule includes the 4-H/FFA and open class dog show at 4 p.m, and Friday will have the swine show at 8:30 a.m., pet show at 1 p.m., and rabbit show at 2 p.m. Visitors can also check out the newly completed 4-H and FFA Education Center which features a static exhibit showcase from 4:30-7 p.m. each day of the fair. SESS Rangefinders 4-H Club President Ruby Hummel will be competing in the dog show, as well as poultry and rabbit shows, and she’s coming off having many achievements last year, including winning grand champion in every animal class she entered, and earning master showmanship. Hummel mentions that every year is different, and since she plans on exhibiting for the final time this year, she’s focusing more on making memories, “Like I raise rabbits, I’m never sure if the rabbits that I brought to the fair that I raised are exactly what they want. And I’m not exactly upset or disappointed when I don’t think they’re going to do well, because I really just show because it’s fun to show. And that might sound cheesy but showing and getting ready for the fair and showing at the fair is so much fun that if I do get grand or reserve it’s just completely amazing and it’s like the cherry on top.”

Admission to the Guthrie County Fair is free this year, and the public is reminded to practice social distancing, wash hands frequently, utilize sanitation stations, and stay home if you are feeling ill. Raccoon Valley Radio will be broadcasting live each day of the fair from the Big Red Radio in Guthrie Center.