Grandstand events at the Prince William County Fair

For many Prince William County Fair visitors, it’s a must to take in an nightly event at the Grandstand.

They love the noise, smoke and thrilling action taking place before them.

And, just as they have in the past, fair officials have lined up a collection of fun events that should please the crowds.

The always popular demolition derbies are planned for three nights, opening day on Aug. 14, followed on Aug. 19 and Aug. 20.

The action gets underway at 7 p.m.

Basically, a driver tries to hit other cars while still keeping his vehicle running. The last two cars running each heat advances to the final featured event, competing for a trophy and cash.

A rodeo has been part of the fair scene forever, and the Fair will host two shows, Aug. 16 and Aug. 17.

About 30 bull riders will be participating in the first event, seeking to stay atop a bucking bull or horse. Children under six years of age can take part in the sheep riding event prior to the show.

Bulls-n-Barrels event is on tap for the second night with cowgirls riding their horses as fast as they can, going between barrel drums.

Monster trucks get the attention of the fans on the closing two nights of the fair, Aug. 21 and 22.

Two different shows are planned, pro-truck racing the first night and a stunt driver and thrill show the second.

The monster trucks first came to the fair in 2012 with one night of dazzling entertainment. It proved so popular that two shows were added last year.

The second show last year drew 14,107 attendees, the second most popular night of the fair.

The Truck and Tractor Pull highlights the action on Aug. 15 with plenty of loud noises and smoke for the enjoyment of the fans.

The Garden Tractor Pull on Aug. 18 is the other nightly show and there will be no grandstand admission.

Total attendance last year was 72,983 with Ladies Night drawing the largest number of fairgoers, 14,910. Fair officials are hopeful of topping 80,000 this year.

The fair experienced rain on the first Saturday and Monday and were unable to open on $2 Tuesday.

“Although the 2014 fair had less that favorable weather, we still had a great time and great numbers,” said Catherine Clemen, president of the Prince William Veterans Farm Club, Inc., sponsors of the farm classic.