Attendees of the Big Butler Fair take a ride on the swings during the first day of last year’s fair at Butler Fairgrounds in Franklin Township. Butler Eagle File Photo
The 169th Big Butler Fair will open doors to fairgoers on Friday, June 27, at 11 a.m.
All kinds of classic activities are returning to the fair, which runs through July 5, from the traditional demolition derby to the newer barnyard cackle review, an animatronic and educational show featuring chickens.
Other entertainment ranges from shows featuring wood carving and pottery demonstrations to hypnotists and rock ‘n’ roll-themed stunts.
Carnival rides, which has been run by Powers Great American Midway for around 30 years, are back in full swing as well.
“They have nice rides that are always up-to-date,” said Clint Cehily, vice president of Butler Fair & Agricultural Association. “It’s entertainment for the family.”
Cehily said that beyond the fun, the fair also is a good way for families to become better informed about agriculture.
“They can learn a lot about agriculture at the forage display or at the petting zoo for the kids,” Cehily said. The fair has all kinds of animals, including cattle, horses, lambs, goats and rabbits.
The fair’s Fourth of July fireworks are scheduled to begin at 9 p.m. on the holiday, which follows a day of regularly scheduled activities and some special events, like the horse show at 9 a.m. and antique tractor pulling at 10 a.m.
Tickets cost $8 before 4 p.m. and $10 after 4 p.m. at the gate, and $10.85 online at any time. Admission is free for children age 6 and younger.
The doors will open at 11 a.m. on weekdays and 9 a.m. on weekends at Butler Fairgrounds in Franklin Township. For more information on the Big Butler Fair, and for a full schedule of events, visit bigbutlerfair.com.
Carnival rides and games are set up for last year’s Big Butler Fair. Butler Eagle File Photo
The Big Butler Fair kicks off Friday. Butler Eagle File Photo
If you’re going
Friday, June 27: An event honoring Corey Comperatore, Let Freedom Ring, will begin at 7 p.m., featuring a bike night and live music by Gary Burk III, Black Ridge and The Hawkeyes.
Saturday, June 28: Bull Ride Mania Rodeo begins at 6:30 p.m.
Sunday, June 29: The School Bus Demolition Derby begins at 7 p.m.
Monday, June 30: The Derbydog Demolition Derby begins at 7 p.m.
Tuesday, July 1: The Kids Caravan Parade begins at 6:30 p.m.; and the Derbydog Figure 8 Races begin at 7 p.m.
Wednesday, July 2: CS Pulling Promotions Truck Pulls begin at 7 p.m.
Thursday, July 3: Butler Fair Barnyard Olympics begin at 6 p.m. CS Pulling Promotions begins at 7 p.m.
Friday, July 4: Colt Jenny Memorial Pony Pull begins at 4 p.m.; The Kid Power Pedal Pulls begin at 5 p.m.; The Western PA Tractor & Truck Pullers begins at 6 p.m.; Military Honors begins at 6 p.m.; LB Roenigk Memorial Draft Horse Pulls begin at 7 p.m.; the Annual Youth Awards Program begins at 8 p.m.; the Wood Carver’s Auction begins at 8:30 p.m.; and fireworks begin at 9 p.m.