The day began early at 9 a.m. with the big poultry show with geese, ducks, turkeys, quail and other birds. Exhibitors of all ages presented their birds to the judges, who judged the birds on appearance, health and presentation.

Amanda Johnson, a member of the Alpena County Fair Board, emphasized the importance of such events for young participants.

“The responsibility these kids take on is enormous,” Johnson said. “They have to take care of their animals, maintain their enclosures and then come here and confidently present their work. It builds their confidence and leadership skills.”

Parallel to the large poultry show, the open horse games with varied activities related to equestrian sports began at 10 a.m.

News photo by Temi Fadayomi. Open horse games participants ride their horses at the Alpena County Fair on Sunday.

As the day progressed, excitement built for the livestock show, which featured both beef and dairy cows. The cattle competition, which began at 4 p.m., was particularly notable as it focused on livestock.

“The market side of the livestock show is all about meat production,” Johnson said. “The exhibitors put a lot of effort into grooming their animals to make them look good, and it’s interesting to see how well the animals behave in the arena. A real bond develops between the kids and their animals.”

The day was characterized by high participation and good atmosphere as the participants demonstrated their hard work and commitment.

Johnson noted that the events have gone very well this year, particularly highlighting the impressive number of market turkeys that were graded earlier in the day.

“It was a great show,” Johnson said. “The judge was fantastic in her thoroughness and her feedback to the kids. And this is the first show of the 2024 fair, so it’s exciting. It’s been a whole year. It’s a great way to start the week.”

News photo by Temi Fadayomi. Contestants in the Big Poultry Show prepare to display their birds Sunday at the Alpena County Fair.

Johnson emphasized the importance of these experiences for the participants.

“It’s not just about showing off your project,” Johnson said. “It builds confidence, especially in leadership positions, when you show others how things should be done.”

The Alpena County Fair, celebrating its 150th anniversary, continues throughout the week with many more events planned for participants and spectators.

Reach Temi Fadayomi at 989-358-5693 or [email protected].

News photo by Temi Fadayomi. Livestock show participants display their cattle at the Alpena County Fair on Sunday.

News photo by Temi Fadayomi. Livestock show participants display their cattle at the Alpena County Fair on Sunday.

News photo by Temi Fadayomi. Contestants in the Big Poultry Show prepare to display their birds Sunday at the Alpena County Fair.