The Van Buren Youth Fair is now underway at the fairgrounds in Hartford.

Fair Director Paul Garrod tells us this is the 70th year for the event, and thousands of people are expected to attend. He says things kicked off Monday with Armed Forces Day and free admission for veterans. Tuesday is Ladies and Senior Citizens Day, with free admission for ladies age 19 and under and, of course, seniors. The rides also start Tuesday, and the grandstand event ought to be a real treat.

“7 o’clock at the Hillside, the Hartford and TPA Nationals,” Garrod said. “Super Farm Tractors, 4-wheel drive truck, Super Stock Combo. That’s always a great event for the fair. People just love to come out and see that.”

Garrod notes grandstand shows are free with paid admission to the fair, something new they tried last year and that proved popular.

Wednesday will be Kids Day.

“Free admission for kids 18 years and under until 5 o’clock. The Van Buren Youth Fair will host a food drive that day to fill local food pantries, bring in two food items and receive $2 off admission price. “

All donated items are going to food pantries around Van Buren County.

The fair continues all week, opening at 3 p.m. most days. In addition to the rides and grandstand shows, you can check out animal displays put on by the youth of Van Buren County all week, and of course, there’s plenty of fair food.

Garrod invites one and all to come out and have some fun at the Van Buren Youth Fair. You can find the full schedule right here.