Fair continues through Saturday with rodeo, food and family fun

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The 58th Annual Lincoln County Fair & Rodeo is in full swing in Panaca, with a weekend of rodeo action, exhibits, food and family entertainment still ahead for residents and visitors.

Friday’s schedule includes the community dinner at 5 p.m. outside the exhibit hall, sponsored by FFA and the Lincoln County Farm Bureau. Rodeo royalty will be crowned at 6:30 p.m., followed by Grand Entry at 6:45 p.m. The Night Rodeo and Mini Bull Competition begins at 7 p.m.

Photo by Mark McEwen
Locals and visitors are preparing for a busy weekend at the 58th Annual Lincoln County Fair & Rodeo in Panaca.

Saturday’s activities begin with the Junior Rodeo at 9 a.m. Team roping, peewee rodeo and mutton bustin’ competitions are scheduled throughout the day before another community dinner at 5 p.m. Grand Entry begins at 6:45 p.m., followed by the final Night Rodeo and Mini Bull Competition at 7 p.m.

In addition to the arena events, fairgoers can enjoy a variety of food vendors and local businesses throughout the weekend. La Cocinitas Goya Taco Truck will be serving authentic Mexican cuisine, while the Tacos & Salsa truck returns after becoming a hit at last year’s fair. Big John’s Chuck Wagon will be serving its signature old-fashioned sodas, while Rodeo Grill & Sweets, hosted by Elissa Evans, will offer food and desserts. Visitors can cool off with shaved ice from Tropical Sno, pick up flavored popcorn from John Westwood’s Popcorn, enjoy sweet treats and fresh baked goods from Fresh Baked by Lindsay or browse original clothing designs by Kade Ruth of Ruthless Co. Additional vendors will also be on site throughout the weekend, giving fairgoers plenty to explore between events.

Visitors are also encouraged to spend time in the exhibit hall, where entries submitted by local residents and 4-H participants showcase the creativity and craftsmanship found throughout Lincoln County. From artwork and photography to quilting, sewing, baking, gardening and other handmade creations, the exhibits highlight months of hard work and celebrate the county’s agricultural heritage, artistic talent and community pride. The exhibit hall will be open from 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. Friday and from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday.