Expanded exhibits and entertainment featured at County Fair

See what the volunteers who keep the Multnomah County Fair going – with no help from our county – are planning for this year’s Memorial Day weekend-long event. It looks like fun …

The 2015 Multnomah County Fair will bring in more 4-H Club members, and their animals, than in previous years. East Portland News archive photo

Story and photos by David F. Ashton

Since they found a permanent home at East Portland’s historic Oaks Amusement Park several years ago, families are already looking forward to this year’s Multnomah County Fair, running for just three days over Memorial Day weekend – May 23, 24 and 25

“The theme of this fair is ‘Treasured Traditions’,” said Friends of Multnomah County Fair Board Member – and award-winning back-yard gardener – Larry Smith.

This, the 109^th annual Multnomah County Fair, is again made possible through the tireless efforts of a small-but-dedicated group of volunteers. The county itself doesn’t put a dime into it.

Friends of Multnomah County Fair VP and 4-H Relations Director Mark Thomas, its President Rick Paul, and Board Member Larry Smith, say really looking forward to this year’s fair.

“Because we’ll be hosting as many as 150 4-H kids this year, their judging and exhibition area will be expanded,” remarked Friends of Multnomah County Fair President Rick Paul. “We’ll have a larger tent and display area for their animals and presentations.”

Paul, a resident of outer East Portland, as are many of the volunteers, revealed that they’re bringing back the racing pigs. And, we’re also featuring the wonderful family entertainer, Professor Bamboozle.”

Friends of Multnomah County Fair VP, and 4-H Relations Director, Mark Thomas chimed in – informing that the American Rabbit Breeders Association will hold a sanctioned competition. “Their nationally-recognized judges will be grading and awarding ribbons for the first two days of the fair,” Thomas said. “And, there will be rabbit demonstrations on Memorial Day itself.”

Smith added, “Remember our main exhibit hall will again feature competitions in art, crafts, floral, foods, needlecraft, and photography. It is easy to enter the competitions, and cash prizes will be awarded for the best exhibits.”

The thrill rides – for young and old – are part of what makes the Multnomah County Fair good family fun. East Portland News archive photo

You need not be an “expert” to enter the competition, Smith assured. “Just bring your exhibits and join the fun! Special competition classes will be available for youth (age 18 and under), senior citizens, and the physically challenged.”

Find out more about the 2015 Multnomah County Fair, and learn how to enter the competitions, by visiting their official website: CLICK HERE to open their site.

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