Starting off my county fair season is Monona County Fair. Being one of the smaller county fairs in the area, don’t be too quick to write off this stop on your summer adventure quite yet.
Starting off my county fair season is Monona County Fair. Being one of the smaller county fairs in the area, don’t be too quick to write off this stop on your summer adventure quite yet. Onawa is a growing community, and the seat of Monona County.
In general, county fairs are a great and wonderful opportunity for visitors to get familiar with various local businesses which are strategically congregated all in one place, so you, as a patron, can spy some souvenirs. From antiques to hand-carved stones to even summer dresses, the shopping opportunities are endless.
What to see and do?
One of the main reasons counties have their local county fairs is so residents and visitors from all over can get an overview of nearby businesses to support, educate people on conservation efforts in the area, and farmers can auction off their livestock. Keeping your money local is crucial to ensuring your community survives, especially in our current economy.
Among the attractions you’ll see at the Monona County Fair are handmade arts and crafts, auctions, lots of livestock, 4-H club, and of course food trucks. I have been to several county fairs, but I still can’t get over the small town feel of this one. Everyone knows everyone, and greets each other by name.
In addition, there are a handful of booths with educational information on display. For example, I learned about the local brown snake and how docile but beneficial this species is to our local ecosystem.
Plan you visit
Personally, I enjoy smaller county fairs like this one because it’s so refreshing to be witness to the young and old enjoying some good clean fun within a safe and welcoming atmosphere, and gearing up for an exciting summer. And finally, check out Monona County Fair’s events schedule (https://mononacountyfair.com/), so you don’t miss out on all the fun!
If you can’t make it this year, I encourage you to drive the half hour to Onawa and show your support at the next Monona County Fair. Maybe you’ll even find your next handmade candle, or even a trendy blouse to wear on your weekly date night.
712-423-2214
1201-1323 Gaukel Dr
Onawa, Iowa 51040
