LINN  —  Linn Lions Club Osage County Fair co-Chairperson Sherry Cleveland noted that overall, the event had a good turnout.

“Thursday was great for the 4H/FFA animals show/auction, and the tractor pulls,” she said of the opening night.

On Thursday, Main Stage Coordinator Mark Loethen oversaw the opening ceremony, which included an opening prayer by Rev. David Kruger of First Baptist Church, the presentation of colors by the Linn Fire Protection District Honor Guard, a performance of the National Anthem by Missouri National Guard Col. Douglas Frank, and a tribute to veterans.

An appreciation ceremony also recognized frontline healthcare workers, law enforcement officers, 911 employees, ambulance personnel, fire department volunteers, and first responders.

Hot Wheels races debuted at the pavilion to the delight of many children.

In the annual Little Mr. and Miss Contest, organizer Nicki Bax interviewed children and judges determined placing based on answers and the costumes for the “What I want to be when I grow up” themed event.

Back by popular demand, “Steve the Reptile Guy” presented a live show on the main stage. This informative session featured lizards, snakes, tarantulas, and many other reptiles.

Despite having back surgery last year, he’s very active with his show, though he’s limited to smaller creatures.

Those slithering, scaly reptiles provided a scare to many in the audience tasked with holding one.

Steve Serengeti, who hails from Ballwin, still holds the Guinness World Record for holding a scorpion in his mouth for 17:17. He appeared on America’s Got Talent.

Members of the Show Me Clown Troupe made balloon animals for everyone who was interested.

Main Stage activities included a water balloon toss, bubble-gum blowing contest, turtle races, and best-decorated turtle. Cassie Twehus performed from 9 until midnight.

Friday’s Kids Morning Out was well-attended, with the barns drawing a lot of interest to see the animals competing in the ring.

Friday evening attendance, unfortunately, was down due to the weather, which Cleveland said couldn’t be helped. Clouds gathered, and it didn’t take long for the rain to fall. However, the kids’ tractor pull on the Main Stage was completed before the shower. Awards were presented under the pavilion, after which the look-alike, twist, and hula-hoop contests were held.

Though the rain didn’t last long, the band Better than Bad did not perform, and Jumping Jacks Events bounce houses were taken down.

New to the fair this year was an ATV Rodeo held on Friday before a good crowd.

During a scheduled pause in the race action, the greased-pig-catching contest needed six divisions to get everyone a turn in the ring. Jason Kempker provided the pigs.

Event Chair Paul Brandt said it was a great turnout, and the kids had a lot of fun.

Saturday was a good day with better weather.

Events began at 1 p.m. with the washer tournament, which drew eight teams. A horseshoes contest began at 3, along with the annual 3-on-3 basketball tournament and free-throw contest.

After the Power Wheels Mud Run, sponsored by Parts City, Mud Bowl XXXIII began and ran well into the evening. “The mud run had lots of vehicles, which made for a great show,” said Cleveland.

A successful Linn Parents as Teachers “Day at the Beach” Baby Baby Show allowed kids to show off.

Musical acts took the stage next, with “Old Time Country Music” with the Osage County Drifters, showcasing fiddle, bass, and waltzes on the Main Stage.

Under the pavilion, members of the Mint Hill Mennonite Choir performed, and from 9 p.m. to midnight, Dirt Road Addiction performed on the State Tech stage.

“Dirt Road Addiction played very well,” said Cleveland.

For kids and adults interested in singing, Big Missouri Karaoke Stars (Ross Entertainment) provided the music for the karaoke contest.

A fireworks show, sponsored by Jim Butler Chrysler-Dodge-Jeep-Ram, Mid America Bank, Osage County Concrete, and the Unterrified Democrat, provided a colorful backdrop to the fair.

Cleveland praised the dining options. “Fair food was delicious, especially with the additional vendors we had this year,” she said, as Sweet Bees Shaved Ice, Bob’s Frozen Custard, kettle corn, and “kettle chips” from the Boys Scouts offered their tasty treats. “We had a great team of volunteers and community support, so many thanks to all who helped make this fair happen.”

Sheriff Mike Bonham said the fair was peaceful. Deputies were on hand each day, interacting with residents and ensuring security.

Linn Fire Protection District and Osage Ambulance District also provided emergency standby during the fair.

For more, follow Linn Lions Club on Facebook or www.osagecountyfair.com.