HAMLET — The Ferris wheel started spinning Thursday afternoon with the start of the 64th annual Richmond County Agricultural Fair.
The livestock barn this year features several rabbits goats, donkeys and cows, along with chickens, turkeys and other birds.
Inside the exhibition hall, prize-winning crafts, crops and foods lined the shelves. Several ag-related organizations also have booths set up. Opening night included a Lego contest.
Although there was lower participation than in years past, Jerry Thomas said the Hamlet Lions Club was able to dole out $1,200 in prize winnings.
The midway included several rides for the young and young at heart, as well as standard carnival games.
The fair runs through the weekend: 5-10 on Friday; 1-10 p.m. on Saturday; and 1-7 p.m. on Sunday. Admission is $5, however students, children 6 and younger, and adults 55 and older get in free.
The fair serves as the main fundraiser for the Hamlet Lions Club.
Proceeds from the fair allow the Lions Club to provide vision screenings in the community, as well as transportation for the visually impaired to Camp Dogwood and the annual VIP Fishing Tournament.
