When the Elizabethtown Fair returns to town this year, visitors will be treated to a variety of new attractions and lots of familiar favorites.

The fair will run from Monday, Aug. 18, through Saturday, Aug. 23, at 900 E. High St., Elizabethtown. Hours will be 5 to 11 p.m. on Monday and 10 a.m. to 11 p.m. the rest of the week. Rides will operate from 6 to 11 p.m. on Monday; from 2 to 11 p.m. on Tuesday, Aug. 19, through Friday, Aug. 22; and from noon to 11 p.m. on Saturday. New this year, prior to the official fair opening, West Green Tree Church of the Brethren will host a community worship service at 10:30 a.m. on Sunday, Aug. 17, on the fairgrounds.

New activities this year will include Circus Incredible, Ryan and Friends ventriloquist act, Choo Choo Barn mobile experience train display, the return of hatching chicks, an American 250 PA apron contest and an inflatable costume race.

Some of the returning favorites include Mike Bishop Hypnotist, Uptown Band, Mars Wrigley, Discover Ag and many food favorites.

"The fair showcases agriculture and the talents and products of Elizabethtown and surrounding communities - lots of great exhibits, competitions, free entertainment and food!" shared Sally Nolt, fair secretary.

Agriculture is at the heart of the fair, she noted, adding that the fair's official mission statement is, "to promote educational activities for all ages involving agriculture, creativity, community involvement, spirit and pride in an atmosphere conducive to wholesome family fun."

The fair may only run for one week a year, but it has a deep impact on a variety of groups, individuals and organizations, Nolt said.

"Many churches and organizations use the fair as their primary fundraiser," she said. "(That) money is funneled back into the community."

The fair also serves as a means for local businesses to promote themselves, and it provides hands-on opportunities for youths and adults to showcase livestock, agricultural products and homemade goods.

"Youth gain funds at the livestock sales for college and to purchase livestock," Nolt remarked. "The community can showcase farm products and tractors, needlecraft, flowers, vegetables, crafts, photography, baked goods, canned goods. The fair is a means for the community to come together and socialize."

Putting on the event is a year-round endeavor for the organizers, and Nolt expressed gratitude to everyone involved in providing a fun and educational community activity.

"The Elizabethtown Fair Board would like to take this opportunity to thank all our supporters, including volunteers, sponsors, vendors and patrons," she said. "Without the tremendous community support we receive, the Elizabethtown Fair would not exist. The Elizabethtown Fair has continued to grow and serve as a place for us to gather as a community to exhibit, compete, be entertained and fellowship together. We have successfully been able to bring together agriculture, business, church and education in a great wholesome atmosphere."

For more information on the Elizabethtown Fair, including a full schedule of activities, visit https://etownfair.com.