Iowa’s Great Jones County Fair Brings the Five (+1) Best Days of Summer

For someone who grew up in Monticello, that pivotal moment of the summer has arrived. Locals know it as the "5 Best days of Summer." I am, of course, talking about the nostalgia-inducing aroma of kettle corn and funnel cakes — the sounds and smells of tractors, hogs, the midway, and epic performances. The Great Jones County Fair is officially underway in my hometown, so, of course, we had to take advantage of free admission night and let the kids enjoy the carnival ride special, thanks to grandma.

Our adventure at the fair always begins in the 4-H area, scouting out the swine, sheep, and cattle barns before turning our attention to some very posh rabbits. The kids enjoyed the rabbits, especially the "floofy" ones.

Of course, on this evening, the kids were also begging to get to the midway as soon as possible to enjoy the rides. So, from 6 to 10 PM, that is what we did. Our funniest moments of the night were found on the Genesis. 2 kids loved it, the other not so much... and the fourth didn't even bother.

I would say on the night, the more adventurous kids enjoyed the 'Freak Out' and the 'Zipper.' For all parties involved, the go-to was still the classic 'Tilt-a-whirl' to please both the kids and grandma.

And of course we enjoyed the food, and man, is there a lot to choose from. Tenderloins from Chuckies. Tacos, quesadillas, and Mexican street corn. Funnel cakes and deep fried oreos, snickers, AND twinkies. YUM! Not to mention those strawberry smoothies and fresh-squeezed lemonade you have to get at each fair.

Free night was a blast, but the party is just getting started as the Great Jones County fair opens for its first day. Here's a list of what you can still enjoy this week.

Wednesday, July 16

• Pro Pulling League @ 7:00 PM

Thursday, July 17

• Harness Racing @11am
• Sam Hunt with Dylan Marlowe @ 8:00 PM

Friday, July 18

• Nelly (with Chingy) @ 8:00 PM

Saturday, July 19

• HARDY (with John Morgan) @ 8:00 PM

Sunday, July 20

• Extreme Bull Riding @ 5:00 PM
• Roots & Boots Tour: Featuring Sammy Kershaw, Aaron Tippin, Collin Raye @ 7:00 PM

No matter what, you can always enjoy the many different free shows, food vendors, and the midway rides. Make sure to take a spin on the 'Dizzy Dragon,' just don't eat a ton first...

Curious about what's on offer at this year's Great Jones County Fair? Check out my photos from the Sneak Peek night!

More adventures await you in Iowa.