In focus: Southwest Washington Fair up and running, heat be darned

Visitors to the Southwest Washington Fair this week may see some panting livestock, or may be panting themselves with the region seeing an “excessive heat warning” from the National Weather Service.

Despite the harsh heat, the fair is on, and exhibitors showing horses, cows, sheep, pigs, poultry and rabbits alike will be on hand throughout the week for auctions, costume contests, caring for the animals, judging and general education for the public. 

Thursday and the weekend were set to start cooling down, as of the forecast on Wednesday morning. Visitors can also head to indoor exhibits and walk through misters across the fairgrounds to stay cool. Opening ceremonies were held at the Community Stage on Tuesday morning, featuring Fair Association President Jerry Owens, longtime Spring Fair organizer Lee Coumbs, Fair Commissioner Edna Fund and Lewis County Commissioners. 

The ceremony included a speech from Commissioner Sean Swope, a poem from Miss Lewis County and a nod to the five Little Miss Friendly candidates.

Little Miss Friendly 2022 Emma Britton wrapped up her year in the cape by cutting the ribbon to open the fair before, at 6 p.m. Tuesday, passing the cape to her successor, Clara Hansen. 

The fair runs through Sunday. Gates open every morning at 10 a.m. and close at 10 p.m. Thursday, 11 p.m. Friday and Saturday, and 7 p.m. Sunday. For a full schedule of events, visit https://southwestwashingtonfair.org/events .