From concerts, to midway rides, livestock shows and a rodeo on Sunday, the 2014 Kings Fair offers something for everyone this season at the Kings Fairgrounds in Hanford June 12-15. The variety of affordable entertainment offered at the fair this year is coupled with special promotion days to encourage attendees to enjoy the fun.
Opening day will begin with the first-ever Throwback Thursday, which will allow guests to catch all the fair action for a $1 admission.
“Our goal is always to provide affordable entertainment for our community,” said Kate O’Neil, CEO. “For only $1 admission, anyone and everyone can come out and take part in one of the best small town fairs in the state.”
Following Throwback Thursday, the fair will offer free parking on FREEky Friday, another savings for families looking for local entertainment this summer.
“This is something the fair has never really done,” O’Neil added. “Our $1 admission day and free parking on Friday is a fantastic offer not found at many county fairs. I hope the community takes full advantage.”
Over the weekend, the fair will welcome headline entertainment to rock the grounds. Multi-platinum band Smash Mouth will hit the Kings Theatre on Saturday night at 8pm.
The opening act will feature up-and-coming Nashville country music singer Carolyn Mescher. As an added bonus, a second opening act by the winner of the 1st Annual Troubadour Music Festival (to be held from June 13 and 14) will kick off the night. Entrance to the concert is free with fair admission.
Smash Mouth has sold more than 10 million albums worldwide. Along with their number one hits – “Walkin’ on the Sun” and “All Star” – they’re also known for other recognizable songs like “Then the Morning Comes,” “Can’t Get Enough of You Baby” and a cover of the Monkees’ classic “I’m a Believer,” which was prominently featured on the “Shrek” soundtrack.
Cultural Day on Sunday will offer attendees unique sounds, sights and savory fair food.
New this year is the Fiesta Del Charro by Flying U Rodeo, which is also free with fair admission.
Fiesta Del Charro is a regional, centuries-old, traditional Mexican equestrian event featuring competitors hailing from south of the border. The rodeo features a colorful opening ceremony, specialty acts, trick and fancy roping, horse and training acts, lively music, bull riding, dancers and more.
“Cultural Day at the fair is always a popular day to attend,” said O’Neil. “We’re looking forward to welcoming the rodeo for the first time.”
Friday features the IMCA Sportmod, IMCA Stock and Mini Stock, free with fair admission. Gates open at 5pm, racing at 6:30pm.
For guests over 21, The Cadillac Cowboys will bring down the house country-style in the Wine Garden on Friday from 7-11pm.
New for 2014, the 1st Annual Troubadour Music Festival, presented by JLive Entertainment and featuring Leaving Austin, will hit the stage on Friday.
Saturday, June 14, the Sprint Cars return to the fair. Pombo Sargent classic KWS 410 Wing Sprint, IMCA Modifieds and IMCA Sportmod race at 6:30pm, gates open at 5pm. Admission is $15 per person.
Livestock exhibitors will be showing animals in the show ring, competing for top honors. The Swan Brothers Circus will entertain crowds in the carnival area. The Market Place will host daily the “Everything that Matters in the Kitchen Cooking Show” for tips, tricks and recipes.
Other highlights include popular hypnotist Kellie Karl, the Next Best Thing Talent Show, Go Fun Zipline, GASCAR Crazy Animal Races, fair food, crafts, carnival rides and much more.
For more information visit www.kingsfair.com.