Lockport Union-Sun & Journal — By the time you read this, the 75th edition of the Niagara County Fair will be well under way. The fair runs through Sunday, and it’s worth stopping by to support the local 4-H community.

Like most county fairs, the Niagara version offers dozens of farm-related activities and contests. The admission won’t break you, either. Unlike the big sister one in neighboring Erie County, the Niagara County Fair hasn’t lost its way by drawing major musical acts and other attractions.

Yes, it remains true to its roots, and that’s its charm.

Of course, there’s the midway, which is one area where you’ll have to fork over a few bucks for entertainment. And food will set you back a bit as well. Still, the overall value in the admission can’t be beat.

A glance at the schedule finds a goat costume contest, a performance by the Lockport Community Band, an antique tractor parade and a performance by magician Rob Allen. And all of that takes place tonight, starting at 6 p.m.!

Throughout the five-day fair, the 4-Hers offer shows or competitions involving dairy cattle, goats, llamas, swine, rabbits. dogs, horses, sheep, miniature horses and roosters. Since it’s a major anniversary, 4-H members have some additional moments to shine during a livestock auction, an alumni luncheon, a 4-H fashion show and square dance, plus the annual awards ceremony.

If animals aren’t your thing, there’s plenty of other activities to keep adults and the little ones entertained. There’s the Hot Country line dancers, a basketball contest, musical performances by local artists, a “Play With Your Food” contest, wine making competition, fireworks, classic car show ballroom dancers, a greased pole contest ad a garden tractor pull are just a few examples.

The fair will bring you back to a simpler time, allowing visitors to take their time and relax while enjoying some of the things we take for granted in life. It’s also a perfect way to support some of the community’s youngest and brightest people.