By MIKE COURSON
Great Bend Post
Last July, the Barton County Fair featured a carnival for the first time since 2019. Given the popularity of carnivals, the Barton County Fair Board wanted to ensure a carnival returned to the fairgrounds for 2024. Barton County Fair Association President Charles Atkinson said that meant moving some dates due to scheduling conflicts with carnival services, but excitement is now building for the fair that begins on Wednesday, June 26.
"The county showed us they wanted a carnival at the fair and that it was important to them," Atkinson said. "It was a business decision, and it was not a decision we took lightly. We had a lot of things to discuss and talk about. We're excited to have a carnival back at the fair. It just changes the whole attitude and visibility of the fair."
Carnivals are often scheduled years in advance, so to fit WEEE Entertainment into the local schedule, the Barton County Fair dates were moved from early July to June 26-30. The fair board spoke with various carnivals and local businesses to settle on the dates for the 2024 fair.
This year, the carnival will be open four nights from Wednesday through Saturday. Attendees will again have the option of purchasing a wristband for unlimited rides or purchasing single tickets.
CLICK HERE for a full schedule of Barton County Fair events.