'Fair' weather, food and fireworks
{Story by Antionette Kerr & Maudiette Arnett/Davidson Local}
The Davidson County Agricultural Fair returns Sept. 18 through 23 with gorgeous weather and new twists. The 77th Annual Fair is part of a long-standing tradition thanks to the Lexington Kiwanis Club's commitment to local youth. Proceeds from each fair support Kamp Kiwanis for three weeks each summer giving 180 children the chance to experience a cool summer camp at no cost.
Questions? Look for the team in pink hats.
On opening night, long-standing chairman Vinnon Williams expressed thanks for great weather and a large crowd. Most people know Williams with the administration of the fair. He takes pride in the structure but confesses that weather is always a major role. "The weather is always a part of the fair," Williams said with hands clutched. "Thank you, God."
Young neighborhood fairgoers take an early trip to enjoy the festivities.
Last year's fair drew a crowd of around 17,000, according to Williams. Co-chairman Tommy Black said they anticipate a larger turnout based on Monday night's attendance. "We have more than we had in the past on the first night," he explained.
Past vendors confirmed the turnout on Monday night. The Linwood Lions Club has participated in the event for more than 50 years. Its booth currently serves hamburgers, hot dogs and various sides. Funds raised support programs for blind and visually impaired individuals. "This is a big week for the Lions Club," said a volunteer who did not wish to be named. "We don't do this for the praise; we just do this out of passion."
Linwood Lions are faithful to the fair for more than 50 years.
One new vendor has taken the slot for the Silver Valley booth. Although the name is still engraved on a nearby seat, Dott's Smokehouse, out of Charlotte, will be in that location. The menu includes burgers, corn and a turkey leg special on Thursday night. Owner Kay Rineharet said the crew decided to "stay away" from pulled pork barbecue.
Dott's Smokehouse takes a prominent role in the fair.
The eatery is named after Rineharet's mother who died 12 years ago. “Dott's has an eclectic and strategic menu,” Rineharet said. "We stayed in our lane. How could we do it better?"
Rineharet added, "None of this could be possible without God. And they [Kiwanis] have been a blessing to me and my team. We have people already asking us to do other stuff."
Thursday will tell the most about attendance due to agricultural contests, pageantry, entertainment and fireworks.
For more fair information, visit...Davidson County Agricultural Fair September 18th - 23rd 2023 (davidsoncountyagfair.com)
