From monster trucks and motocross to pageants and prize-winning livestock, the Daviess County Lions Club Fair promises four action-packed days of entertainment at the fairgrounds in Philpot this July 16-19. Now in its 66th year, the event continues to grow while staying true to its small-town charm and community spirit.
“This is something for everyone,” said Eric Miller, president of the Daviess County Fair Board. “Whether you’re here for agriculture, the rides, or the shows, there’s always something going on.”
The fair season actually begins a few weeks earlier with a series of pageants starting June 24, including Baby and Toddler, Little Miss and Mister, and divisions for Preteen, Teen, Ms., and Mrs. Daviess County. Winners in the older categories will go on to compete at the Kentucky State Fair.
“Our reigning Miss Teen Daviess County is currently the state Miss Kentucky County Fair Teen,” said Membership Director Amy Bouchard.
Each day from July 16-19, the fair opens at 4 p.m., and admission includes access to the carnival, inflatables, music, livestock shows, and other scheduled events. Tickets are $15 for adults, $10 for children ages 5–12, and free for kids under 5. Young children who want to ride carnival rides can purchase a $5 wristband.
Wednesday night features a monster truck rally as the fair’s big opener, along with 4-H feeder calf and beef steer shows. On Thursday, Kids Day runs from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., offering free admission for underprivileged youth and special needs families through a partnership with Owensboro Health.
“Last year we welcomed more than 300 kids,” Bouchard said. “They get lunch, goodie bags, and a quieter fair experience.”
Thursday evening continues with motocross races and live music on the midway. Friday keeps things rolling with youth lamb and goat shows, a garden tractor pull at 7:30 p.m., and the kids’ pedal tractor pull at 6:30 p.m.
“It’s just like the big tractor pull, but they’re riding little pedal tractors with weights,” Miller said. “The kids love it.”
Saturday features more livestock shows, including poultry and rabbits, the Coca-Cola-sponsored talent show at 5:30 p.m., and the big TNT truck and mini tractor pulls at 7:30 p.m.
Throughout the fairgrounds, guests can enjoy a variety of food vendors, local crafts, the 4-H exhibit hall, pony rides, and even helicopter rides just outside the gate for an extra fee.
“It really brings the whole community together,” said Bouchard. “It’s a place where kids who aren’t into sports or theater can shine — whether they’re raising an animal, performing in the talent show, or just riding the Ferris wheel.”
The fair is organized by volunteers through the Daviess County Lions Club, with major support from Owensboro Health, the Michael E. Horn Family Foundation, Daviess County Fiscal Court, and dozens of local sponsors.
“We couldn’t do it without our volunteers and the businesses that stand behind us,” Miller said.
