The Pike County Fair opens tonight at the Pike County Fairgrounds. The sponsoring Troy Shrine Club has dialed up ideal fall weather for the 2016 county fair and brought back the same promoter, Modern Midway, by popular demand.

“The Midway last year was a great hit with everyone,” said Homer Homann, Troy Shrine Club president. “It was larger than in the past and had new rides, exciting rides. We are glad to have Modern Midway back.”

Opening night at the Pike County Fair offers a special ticket that includes admission to the fair and also to the Demolition Derby.

“The gates open at 6 p.m. and the Demolition Derby is at 7 p.m. tonight,” Homann said. “And, you get both for the one admission price – $6 dollars for adults and four dollars for kids ages 6 to 11.”

Homann said the Derby is expected to have eight to 10 entries and the winner will be the last car standing.

“The cars line up against the side walls and, when the Demolition Derby starts, each car will try to put the others out of commission,” he said. “It’s fun and it’s exciting and it’s all for the price of admission to the fair.”

Demolition Derby cars are to register at 5 p.m. and owners must be familiar with the rules and regulations of the derby.

“We have $1,500 in prize money with the winner getting $750, second place will get $300 and, third, $200,” Homann said. “We’ll also award $200 for the ‘best dressed’ car.”

Bleachers are available for the Demolition Derby fans.

Homann said the Pike County Fair has all of the ingredients that make for an enjoyable experience.

“Of course, the Midway is the main attraction and we’ve got a great one with fun rides for kids and thrill rides for those who like excitement,” he said. “We have exhibits of handmade and homemade items and also the renovated Cattle Barn. The Cackle Club will be here tonight with a fantastic poultry display. These chickens were raised by local 4-H’ers who participated in the Cackle Club project.”

The fair also features a variety of booths that showcase Pike County’s churches, business community and service organizations.

The Pike County Fair will feature entertainment each night at the Pavilion. The Benton Brothers and Company will be tonight’s entertainment. The group sings Southern Gospel and is well known throughout the area.

The Pike County Fair has a concession stand available and festival foods are also available on the Midway.

“We invite everyone to come and enjoy all the fun of a county fair,” Homann said. “We have one of the best county fairs and right here at home.”

The Pike County Fair will continue nightly through Saturday.