Paul Kennedy, president of the Schuylkill County Fair, is excited for the event’s return.

“The Schuylkill County Fair is for all of Schuylkill County, not just for the agricultural community or the south end residents. We truly do have something for everyone, whether you are a motor sports enthusiast, a foodie, a live music enthusiast or someone looking for family fun,” he said Wednesday.

The Schuylkill County Fair opens Monday and continues through Aug. 7.

The pandemic forced the cancellation of the fair in 2020, but the fair is back for its 37th year. The slogan is “Making Memories One Fair at a Time.”

Kennedy does not have an estimate on how many people he think might attend.

“There is a lot of variable for attendance,” he said.

In 2019, 29,697 people attended the fair. The highest count was 30,292 in 2016.

Admission is still $5. Children 10 and younger are admitted free. New this year is a military, veterans and first responders day on Aug. 6, offering a $1 discount to those who qualify.

A new flagpole at the main entrance is among improvements to the fairgrounds. The last new one was in the 80s, Kennedy said.

Other changes include a new pavilion, additional bleachers at the track and electrical upgrades.

The upper part of the midway has been turned into a kids and family activity area. Additional interactive activities are also new to the fair.

New food vendors will be offering Korean BBQ, grilled chicken options and edible cookie dough.

The Jefferson Grange is returning after a 10-year-hiatus selling potatoes.

Some food vendors are not returning because they don’t have enough employees to man the stands, Kennedy said.

Volunteers have been helping since June to prepare the grounds for the fair. Attendees will notice lots of flags throughout the grounds.

“This is a celebration of our return,” Kennedy said.

The fair schedule

Monday: Pulling Day; Open at 4 p.m.

Tuesday, Kids Day; Open at 11 a.m.

Wednesday, Schuylkill County Day; Open at 4 p.m.

Thursday, Senior Appreciation Day; Open 11 a.m.

Friday, Country Day; Open at 4 p.m.

Saturday, Military Appreciation Day; Open at 11 a.m. (Active duty and veterans $4 admission with ID)

Sunday, Clean-Up Day

Daily entertainment includes Clive Allen Magic & Illusion, a tractor parade and interpretive talks, including Ways of Wildlife, Appalachian Mountain, Olde Time Toys and more.

Featured acts include the New Individuals on Monday, Sapphire on Tuesday, Hooligan on Wednesday, Mudflaps Reunion on Thursday, Amish Outlaws on Friday, John King with Hannah Violet Trio on Saturday.

Go to www.schuylkillfair.com for more details.