Carnival Rides Highlight Country Fair
By Regina Elling

Ramona Home Journal File Photos

Attending the Ramona Country Fair is a great way to beat those "summertime blues." Forget the heat for a bit and enjoy carnival rides, tasty food, contests and shopping, all at the Ramona Community Fairgrounds at 5th and Aqua Streets.

"The Fair promises to be a family event that we hope will bring Ramona together," says Sean Leahy, Fair Chairman. "This year's entertainment is top quality, the rides will be great and we really want people to have fun."

Opening ceremonies for the 37th annual Country Fair Days begin August 2. The finale, Sunday, August 5, will be the finals for the Ramona Idol Contest.

"We are pleased to have Tony Randall of KUSS-FM 95.7 (Feel Good Country) broadcasting the event live," says Mac McWilliams, executive director of Ramona's Chamber of Commerce. "He will also be one of the judges for the finals."

In-between will be bands, karaoke, demonstrations by local groups and contests for the public, such as the watermelon eating contest and lawnmower races. More than 100 vendors will be present. There will also be a beer and wine garden, sponsored by Stone Brewery and local Ramona wineries.

"If you don't have a good time at the Fair this year, you didn't go," says McWilliams.

Hours for the Fair are from 5 p.m. to 11 p.m. August 2 and 3, from noon to 11 p.m. August 4, and from noon to 10 p.m. August 5. The Carnival is open for about an hour longer most days; for a complete schedule, visit www.ramonafair.com.

General admission is free; ticket prices for the rides vary from $10 to $16. Tickets will be on sale July 5 at these locations: Ramona Chamber of Commerce, 960 Main Street; Albertsons, 1459 Main Street; Diamond D, 444 D Street; Ramona Pharmacy, 677 Main Street and Joe's Java Hut, 23658A San Vicente Road.

The Ramona Country Fair Days is presented by the Ramona Chamber of Commerce. For more information, visit www.ramonachamber.com or call 760-789-1311.