The 96th Lake County Fair opened Wednesday in Grayslake amid a heat wave that caused organizers to move at least one activity indoors.
As many as 100,000 people are expected to attend the fair, which runs through Sunday.
“We’re taking the current heat wave seriously, and have several measures in place to keep both our guests and animals safe,” said Chey Pribel, director of marketing and events manager at the fairgrounds. “The Grayslake Fire Department has set up a misting zone just outside the Expo Hall, and drinking fountains are available throughout the fairgrounds.
“Guests are encouraged to stay hydrated and take advantage of our air-conditioned Expo Hall, where they’ll have plenty to explore, from 4-H and pavilion exhibits to shopping, a magic show, and the sheriff’s learning zone,” she said.
“On the animal-care side, our fair veterinarian is onsite and will continue to monitor conditions closely, making recommendations as needed to ensure the well-being of the animals,” Pribel added.
The K9 demonstration was moved inside the Expo Hall on Wednesday due to the heat. K9 Loki, a male German shepherd, was visibly hot from having earlier been outside in the 90-degree temperatures, but seemed to cool down during a late afternoon demonstration.
Kevin Lowe, a Lake County sheriff’s deputy and K9 handler, said audience members benefit from the demonstrations as a learning opportunity, in that spectators “just get to see the dog’s capabilities; see what our training is; show everyone how sophisticated these animals are.
“They’re amazing,” he said. “It’s important to show that.”
At the Lake County Sheriff’s Police educational area was Tom Popowitch, 12, of Mundelein, who tried holding a 30-pound bulletproof shield. Tom leaned back a bit, but prevailed.
His mother Jen was delighted that Tom and his siblings Lucy, 9, and Emily, 7, were engaged with the activities offered at the fair.
“I want them to learn experiences that they don’t get from day to day; to see the animals,” she said. “We live in a subdivision. We don’t live on a farm. They get to experience and ride rides. It’s a really fun time.”
Events featured during the fair will include trick riders on motorcycles. A demolition derby on Wednesday set a tone with an audible revving of engines from the grandstand arena. A strolling DJ is new this year.
“For 96 years, the Lake County Fair has been more than just an event; it’s been a beloved tradition that brings generations together,” Pribel said. “Whether it’s sharing a funnel cake, cheering on a demolition derby or watching a child show their first animal in the livestock barns, the fair is where memories are made and community roots grow deeper year after year.”
Dan and Sara Nix of Wauconda brought their children Braelyn, 8, Nolan, 6, and Weston, 2.
“We make this a summer event each year, (for) the rides, see motocross and enjoy the monster trucks,” Dan Nix said.
Annabella Fisher, 19, of Vernon Hills, was selected from among four contestants to become Miss Lake County Fair Queen 2025. Wednesday evening’s pageant took place inside the air-conditioned Expo Hall.
“It feels great. I am excited,” Fisher said with a smile shortly after being crowned. “I think Lake County is a great county. We have such amazing towns.”
