The annual weeklong Carbon County Fair is nearing the end of its 2026 run.

There’s only two more days to take in the abundant variety of foods, the free entertainment, the gleaming sights and sounds of the midway, the many exhibits of arts and crafts, the thrill of the rides and the agricultural experience.

The fair, located along Little Gap Road just east of Palmerton, is open 5 to 10 p.m. today. It opens at 2 p.m. Saturday.

For 4-H animal exhibitors, tomorrow is their main event at the fair.

The annual livestock auction will be held at 1 p.m. in the show ring with registration for bidders beginning at 11 a.m. At the auction, all animals are sold via bid to individuals or firms.

The sale is always sweet sorrow for the youngsters. It means parting ways with their projects, animals that were very young when they obtained them. They cared for the animals, feeding them, grooming them and especifically prepping them for fair judging.

Amanda Gowin, who had the grand champion steer last year, admitted you get attached to the animals you raise.

She said after selling her steer last year that she had her steer for 10 months, adding, “I walked him, I petted him, I watered him and I had to break him in.”

Although she was in tears during last year’s action, she admitted that she realizes selling the animal is part of the process.

Gowin, who has been showing various animals for several years, is hoping to have the grand champion steer again this year but she also has a special challenger. Her brother, Cameron, who has an Angus cross named “Bear” is also seeking the honors.

Not all the 4-H members qualify for judging. Every breed has various standards that must be met, such as minimum weight.

The 4-H auction is open to the public, with bidding encouraged. The funds received from the sale of the livestock are usually used by the youngsters to purchase animals that will compete in fair judging next year.

Free entertainment on the main stage tonight is by the band Mystery City.

The fair has a one-price ticket for amusement rides.