INDIANOLA, Iowa — The Warren County Fairgrounds are alive again as people crowded in to prepare for shows, seek out good food, and enjoy the rides.

County fair season is winding down across the state, but Warren County opened up its first day with strong attendance and lots of excitement.

For FFA and 4-H participants, it’s finally time to put a year’s worth of work on display.

Cara joined 4-H at a young age and has been showing rabbits for years. She says it takes a lot of work to make sure the judges like what they see.

“Just like working with them a lot, so they’re not nervous, and judges just come in and they’re just looking like if they’re a good representation of the breed, like they’re not too big or small, and then their markings.”

Asher began showing cattle in 2017 as a way to learn more about the agricultural industry. He says his two cows are a lot of work, but it’s worth.

“It’s a lot of work. It’s 365 days, all week, 24/7. You’ve got to wake up early and go to bed late and pretty much just spend all your time with them,” Asher said. “It’s a full-time job.”

However, not everyone at the fair is crossing their fingers for a blue ribbon and a hopeful spot at the Iowa State Fair; some people are out to have a good time.

This was Lexie’s first time at the Warren County Fair, but not Ella’s. She’s been coming since she was a child, and she knew what to seek out first.

“Today was great. We ate so much food. We got egg rolls, woodfired pizza, ribs, mac and cheese. Oh, yeah. It was all about the food on the first day.”

Lexie and Ella have plans to return at least once or twice more, they are most excited for Friday to see Lonestar on the grandstand.

The Warren County Fair is happening at 1400 W 2nd Avenue, Indianola, and runs from Wednesday to Monday with events running from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. most days. To view a complete schedule, visit the Warren County Fair Website.