Life at Willis Creek Ranch Archive: But what do you do at the fair?

People often ask us, “But what do you DO at the fair for 2 weeks?” I know it may be hard to imagine, but the Missouri State Fair has so many opportunities for fun, relaxation and even learning that we never get bored! There is truly something for all of us. By camping for the full length of the fair we can take our days more slowly, never feeling like we have to rush from one event to the next. This, in itself, adds to our enjoyment of the fair tremendously.

So, what DO we do at the fair? Let me try to show you.....

The Mathewson Center at the Missouri State Fair

One of our favorite spots is the Mathewson Center (specifically Section 104!). You can often find us here watching some horse (or horse related) event. During the course of the fair they have the Society Horse Show, Draft Horse show, Draft Horse Hitches, Team Penning (Marvin’s favorite!), Cowboy Mounted Shooting, Jumping Mules and even a Donkey show.

Society Horse Show

Draft horse hitches

There are many different classes in the show, but the big finale is the 6 horse hitch. These drivers are absolutely amazing! Imagine controlling 6 ton of horses through 6 leather reins. That front team has to be incredibly well trained! It is breathtaking to watch.

The judges make the teams maneuver around the arena, showcasing the skill of the drivers and the strength of the teams.

At the end of the evening they have an arena full of 6 horse hitches.

Then there is the Team Penning event ..... this is what Marvin wishes he could see well enough to participate in. It truly is a beautiful sport.... 3 riders using teamwork among themselves and with their horses work to get 3 calves separated from the herd and put in a pen in under a minute. These horses are so fun to watch.... they stop and turn on a dime, so determined to pen that calf!

Cowboy Mounted Shooting is a popular one. Riders run their horses through a pattern in which they shoot balloons, having to switch guns midway through to make the 10 shots. (They use blanks in the guns) The boys enjoy this one, although it is a little loud and smoky for me...

See all the smoke in the arena???

Hmmmm.... a girl in a tu-tu and a donkey in a tu-tu. They must be headed to the donkey costume class at the Mathewson Center! :)

During the draft horse show they have an antique farm wagon class - always fun to watch. And then there is Radar the jumping mule. If you didn’t already know, Missouri is known for mules. And we have a state fair favorite named Radar, the jumping mule! H e has been to the fair every year for about 17 years and has his own fan following. Mules can flat footed jump quite a height. Radar jumps over 5 feet!

farm wagon class

Radar, the jumping mule

The Mathewson Center is also home to the Super Farmer Contest, the senior day Missouri Waltz contest, the 4H Dog show and the Fair Queen contest. It is air conditioned, has nice roomy seats and is well lit so that I can read a book if I so choose. :) Plus, the kids like that you can get nachos and a soft pretzel at the concession stand.

The Super Farmer contest is always fun to watch. Teams of 2 (a man and a woman) compete in a variety of fun(ny?) challenges including throwing a bale of hay the highest, hammering nails the fastest, and various wacky relay races. :) But don’t be misled... it is not an easy contest to participate in!

Several years ago I wandered into the Mathewson Center on a scorching hot afternoon simply wanting a cool place to read my book. It was Senior Day at the fair and they were having a Missouri Waltz contest on the floor of the Mathewson Center. I was charmed by the dancers and became hooked on the event, returning every year to see “my teams” compete. This year, my favorite couple from years past wasn’t there.... considering the demographic of the participants, I hope that they are okay, and missed their joyful and energetic dancing.

Based only on my recommendation, dear Jim and Linda decided to check it out. I am afraid that I neglected to mention that it was Senior Day MO Waltz.... Jim may have been slightly underwhelmed.... :) I tried to tell him that I am easily amused! :)

There was a new young performer who sang for the crowd... his name is Matt Steele and we thoroughly enjoyed his music. S o much so that Jackson went down and bought his CD. :)