e Northwest Washington Fair Association is a 501(c)(3) nonpro t organization.
e Mission of the Northwest Washington Fair is to provide:
• Education regarding agriculture - past, present, and future
• Experiences with positive competition
RFirst Aid:
Located in BP Place
• Enjoyment of wholesome entertainment, social interactions, and lasting memories
Our ve core values are Youth, Community, Agriculture, Education, and Entertainment.
e Northwest Washington Fair Association will organize an annual Fair that will promote an appreciation for our agricultural heritage and provide education about the role agriculture plays in life today, while providing youth with a hands-on experience. e annual fair will be a social gathering place where family values will be honored and individuals of all ages will be entertained.
e mission of the association will further be accomplished by generating revenue via the rental of the facilities during the o -season, developing promotional activities to encourage o -season usage and promoting agriculture as a way of life.
e Northwest Washington Fair Association is an organization in which the sta , Board of Directors, association members, volunteers, contributors and Whatcom County citizens all have a sense of ownership and pride.
Wheelchair Rentals:
Available at Gate 1 inside the Peoples Bank Farm Pavilion.
Cash Machines:
Located next to the Grandstand Ticket Booth and across from Guest Services.
Restrooms:
Banner Bank Festival Stage
WECU Expo Building
Clock Tower
BP Place
Henry Jansen Agricultural Center
Salish Wealth Management Horse Barn
Carnival
A message from the manager of the Northwest Washington Fair
I’m so excited to welcome you to this year’s Fair. We hope you enjoy 10 incredible days lled with tradition, celebration and the chance to create memories that will last a lifetime.
Each year, I’m reminded that the Fair isn’t just an event, it’s an entire community coming together to produce something amazing.
It’s the result of countless hours poured
in by passionate exhibitors, hardworking volunteers, dedicated sta , and the unwavering support of our sponsors, partners, and the entire Whatcom County community.
I’m truly thankful for every person who plays a role in bringing the Fair to life.
Whether you’re here to support a 4-H or FFA participant, enjoy your favorite Fair food, watch a concert under the lights, or simply
spend time with family and friends, there’s truly something for everyone to enjoy.
I hope this year’s Fair brings you joy, connection, and little moments you’ll look back on for years to come.
ank you for being part of it. Wishing you 10 unforgettable days at the Northwest Washington Fair.
With appreciation, Selena Burgess NWW Fair Manager
Fair Magazine publisher’s welcome
Dear Readers and Fairgoers,
For more than 100 years, the Lynden Tribune has proudly covered and reported on the Northwest Washington Fair.
I still remember my introduction to the behind the scenes work in fair preparation over 60 years ago.
My father, Julian, let me tag along with him when local business owners volunteered their evenings painting and sprucing up the inside of the fair buildings along Front Street.
I will never forget the chuckles I received when I sat on one of their freshly painted benches.
Our 2025 Northwest Washington Fair Magazine is not only a guide to fair events and activities but also a celebration of the outstanding 10-day Whatcom County event.
It takes the dedicated work of our entire newspaper sta to produce this award-winning magazine.
From the sta planning, selling of ads, writing stories, proo ng copy, to the graphic design, printing and binding, the magazine is one of our proudest undertakings.
I would like to personally thank the business community for your amazing advertising support that allows us to publish a
magazine of this quality.
And to our faithful readers, thank you for your continued support as subscribers.
I would be remiss not to give a special shout out to Fair Manager Selena Burgess and her dedicated sta who are a pleasure to work with.
Plus, a big thank you to the Board of Directors for your service and outstanding leadership in making the Northwest Washington Fair one of the best, if not the best, in the state.
Here’s to a wonderful and safe 2025 Northwest Washington Fair.
And to all the volunteers, and those behind the scene
who help make the event run smoothly … a huge, huge thank you.
Michael D. Lewis Publisher
Grandstand entertainment 6Demolition Derby 12Country Shu e 15Banda El Limon 16 Lynden PRCA Rodeo
Jake Owen 24 Chandler Moore
25Hip-Hop Throwback 30ZZ Top
Features
38 Small Stage Entertainment 41 ‘Always something to watch or do’ 46Sterling Dietz
1General Information 3Welcome Messages 14 Discount Days 34Banner Bank Stage 40Carnival 48 Events Judging Schedule 76 Biggest and Best Events 79 Free Park & Ride 86Fair Food Finder 87 Discount food specials
88Map
e Lynden Tribune team hopes you enjoy this year’s Northwest Washington Fair publication.
A lot of time and e ort went into bringing you a magazine the entire community can take pride in.
It will again be our pleasure and responsibility to capture more special moments for you this year.
ank you for your continued support.
Also, thank you to everyone at the Northwest Washington Fair in Lynden for your collaborative e orts.
By Joe Kramer
Out behind Ben Lagerwey’s barn, a eet of wounded warriors lies still — some with twisted frames, others with rust- ecked panels pried open like battle scars. To the untrained eye, it might look like a scrap yard. But to Lagerwey, it’s a museum of memories.
ere are Lincoln bodies, Ford skeletons and the odd truck carcass, all torn from friends’ driveways and backyards, each with its own story — and all just one welding torch away from a resurrection. is is where Lagerwey’s past and future in demolition derby collide, year after year.
“I keep saying I’m not going to do it,” Lagerwey said with a half-laugh. “But I keep building another one.”
For the 2025 Northwest Washington Fair, Lagerwey is returning once again, this time behind the wheel of a 1957 Lincoln—an old land yacht he salvaged out of Bellingham from a man named Terry Foster.
“ e guy gave it to me for free and told me he just wanted to see it in a derby,” Lagerwey said. “I told him a couple months ago I was nally going to run it. I think he’s pretty excited about that.”
Lagerwey’s obsession with demolition derby started when he was a kid.
“When I was little and my parents took me to the demolition derby at the Lynden Fair, the rst thing I told them was that someday I was going to do that,” he said. “ ey were like, that’s what every kid says, right? ey didn’t believe me. And now look where we are.”
Where we are now is three decades later — Lagerwey hasn’t missed the Lynden Derby since 1994. He’s compet-
ed while also playing a key role in guiding the derby’s future.
As treasurer of the local derby club and a former vice president of the board that oversees operations, Lagerwey has played a role in keeping the event alive, especially following a major shakeup in 2010.
at year, the fair parted ways with the previous derby organizers after a dispute over nances and transparency. After a brief period under outside management, local drivers formed their own club to keep the derby rooted in the
Continued on page 8
Ben Lagerwey stands in front of a Lincoln body similar to the one he’ll run in the 2025 Northwest Washington Fair demolition derby. (Joe Kramer/Lynden Tribune)
Ben Lagerwey, left, sorts through parts stored in the trunk of one of his derby cars at his property outside Lynden. (Joe Kramer/ Lynden Tribune) community.
Since then, Lagerwey has served as treasurer, managing everything from club nances and payouts to rule changes and safety equipment.
e board now meets monthly and Lagerwey said the group has even started an annual banquet and “Derby Man of the Year” award to keep the community strong.
Ironically, Lagerwey spent nearly a decade xing cars for a living before dedicating himself to wrecking them for fun. After growing up on a dairy farm, he went to tech school and worked in auto body shops like Maple Leaf and Charlie’s Autobody.
“Everybody thought it was funny because I xed cars for a living and wrecked them for fun,” he said.
He doesn’t come from a racing background.
“My dad was probably the worst mechanic I ever knew,” he joked. “Still is.”
Over time, Lagerwey became known for his detailed approach to building derby cars.
While some competitors slap cars together in a week, Lagerwey can spend two to three months on a full build.
echovalleyrespite@gmail.com
His current Lincoln? “It’s still just a frame sitting on the ground.”
“I spend way too much time on some things that don’t really matter,” he admitted. “Like our rule says you can weld all the doors shut with a two-inch strap. I weld all my seams ush before I put the plate on. I don’t even know if it makes a di erence, but I like my car to look like a car.”
Demolition derby isn’t just about brute force, Lagerwey insists. ere’s a strategy, a rhythm — and if you’re experienced enough, a kind of ow state.
“I tell all the young guys, you’ve got to control your adrenaline,” he said. “ ere was a point when I used to blackout during a derby and not remember anything. But now, everything goes into slow motion. It’s like I’m orchestrating the derby. I can almost see what’s going to happen.”
Lagerwey has passed on plenty of wisdom to up-and-coming drivers, although he admits he doesn’t believe in
Ben Lagerwey with his wife Kellie after a derby event win. (Photo courtesy of Ben Lagerwey)
Above: Ben Lagerwey uses a tractor to move one of several car bodies scattered across his field.Opposite page: Ben Lagerwey and other derby contestants will compete at this year’s demolition derby on Aug. 7-8 at the Northwest Washington Fairgrounds. (Joe Kramer/Lynden Tribune) micromanaging them.
“If they ask, I tell them what I’d do. But I don’t stop them from trying something di erent,” he said. “Every car reacts di erently. Sometimes you just have to try new things.”
He remembers the early mistakes— the time he dropped a car on himself, or blew up a gas tank — and the unforgettable moments. Like last year’s Lynden truck derby.
“My brother Monty and I were rst and second,” he said. “He shoved me over the wall. en he knocked me back o the wall so we could keep derbying. at was the loudest I’ve ever heard a crowd scream.”
Monty ended up winning that one.
“I could’ve beat him, but my steering broke,” Lagerwey said. “We didn’t argue. We went and drank beer together
after. It was pretty awesome.”
Lagerwey doesn’t shy away from the challenges facing the sport.
“I like to think of it as a dying breed,” he said. “I don’t want it to die, but it’s hard. It’s hard to nd the old cars. It’s hard to nd people willing to put in the e ort. And our younger drivers—man, they drop o like ies.”
at’s why the club introduced a minivan class for beginners.
“Take a running minivan, take out the windows, put in a cage and a harness, and go derby it,” Lagerwey said. “Very minimal work. We’re trying to make it less overwhelming.”
Still, cost remains a barrier.
“I’m rebuilding my rear end this year—already had the gears, but I’m upgrading axles and other stu ,” he said. “I’ve got over $2,000 into it. It adds up
fast.”
He said sponsorships can help, but “that’s also a hassle. At this point, I don’t even bother asking people for money. I just do it.”
Even with a new home that lacks the power to run a welder or air compressor, Lagerwey drives ve miles to his buddy Wayne’s place to build his car. He insists each year will be his last—but the eld behind his barn tells a di erent story.
“I’ve got ve trucks, ve small derby rigs and probably ve or six cars out there,” he said. “So I keep saying I’m going to be done, but it looks bad when I have all these cars still.”
For Lagerwey, the derby is more than just a hobby. It’s an identity, a community, and a way of life.
“I love the derby,” he said simply. “ at’s all there is to it.”
Country Shuffle
LYNDEN — Country Shu e, a concert featuring Colt Ford, David Lee Murphy and Conner Smith, will take stage at 7 p.m. Saturday, Aug. 9 at the Northwest Washington Fair.
Colt Ford is a singer, songwriter, rapper, musician, performer and co-founder and coowner of Average Joes Entertainment with albums and songs that have seen success in various genres.
Known for his hit single, “Dust On e
Bottle,” David Lee Murphy has achieved major success as both a singer and a songwriter. Emerging country singer Conner Smith received his rst ACM Awards nomination in 2024.
Tickets are now on sale. Grandstand reserved seats are $45, grandstand preferred seats are $60 and preferred chairs are $70.
See Country Shu e on 13
Country Shu e, a concert featuring Colt Ford, David Lee Murphy and Conner Smith, from left, will take stage at 7 p.m. Saturday, Aug. 9 at the Northwest Washington Fair. (Photo courtesy Northwest Washington Fair)
Trailblazers veer o the beaten path and break every rule along the way.
Colt Ford consistently blazes his own trail. By doing so, the Georgia singer, songwriter, rapper, musician, performer, and co-founder and coowner of Average Joes Entertainment keeps up pace as country’s preeminent independent maverick.
By 2019, Colt built a series of staggering successes as he rose to mainstream notoriety. He notched ve consecutive Top 10 debuts on the Billboard Top Country Albums Chart with “Declaration of Independence” bowing at #1 in 2012.
Two years later, “ anks for Listening” ascended to the Top 10 of the Top 200, with the album reaching #1 on Billboard Rap & Independent charts. Meanwhile, he lobbed six songs onto the Hot Country Songs Chart with “Back” [feat. Jake Owen] going Top 40.
Among many accolades, Ford received a nomination in the category of “Vocal Event of the Year” at the Academy of Country Music Awards for “Cold Beer” with Jamey Johnson.
Selling over 3 million albums, attracting millions of followers on social media and hitting 1 billion-plus streams, the country rap pioneer’s dynamic discography spans collaborations with everyone from Toby Keith, Brad Paisley, Keith Urban, and Jermaine Dupri to members
of No Doubt, Lit, and Lady Antebellum. Additionally, he co-wrote Jason Aldean’s #1 hit “Dirt Road Anthem” and Brantley Gilbert’s #1 hit “Country Must Be Country Wide” as a behind-thescenes force in the studio. Moreover, Ford’s solo tradition of genre-blurring continued on “Love Hope Faith” in 2017 by way of cuts such as “Reload” [feat. Taylor Ray Holbrook].
Ford’s latest project, “Must Be e Country,” which emerged amidst his courageous battle against eye cancer, showcases his deep vocal range and impeccable delivery.
Colt Ford is a singer, songwriter, rapper, musician, performer and co-founder and co-owner of Average Joes Entertainment with albums and songs that have seen success in various genres.
(Photo courtesy of Colt
Following a rigorous surgery to eliminate the tumor, Ford’s resilience shone through as he confronted another obstacle: a diagnosis of Myasthenia Gravis, an autoimmune disorder impacting facial muscles and neural connections. Undeterred by his personal health challenges, Ford has remained an inspiration, continuing to play over 120 shows per year and crafting new projects that are slated for release later this year.
His unwavering human spirit permeates his music, demonstrating his unwavering commitment to his artistry.
Colt Ford to perform at NWW Fair Country Shuffle: Colt Ford, David
Lee Murphy and Conner Smith
Continued from 12
Prices do not include Fair gate admission, which is required.
Tickets can be purchased online at nwwafair.com, the Fair Office at 1775 Front St., Lynden, or by phone at 360-
354-4111. VIP and group ticketing are also available.
e 2025 Northwest Washington Fair will be presented Aug. 7-16.
Ticket sales for the Northwest Washington Fair must be purchased through the o cial website, nwwafair.com, or at
the Fair o ce.
e Fair is not responsible for tickets purchased from third-party sellers, and they cannot guarantee their validity or authenticity.
To ensure you receive a valid ticket, always buy directly from e Fair.
Ford)
Reach for these deals!!
e following are the many discount days available at this year’s Fair
Thursday, Aug. 7
is Community Education Day
Whatcom County public, private and tribal school employees receive complimentary gate admission with valid school credentials at Gates 1 or 5.
Guests who are not school employees can also get free admission by donating one new backpack or four school supply items (from the list below) at Gates 1 or 5 from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m.
Donations will be distributed by Blue Skies for Children to Whatcom County students.
Requested items: new backpacks, pens, pencils, black Sharpies ( ne & ultra ne point), folders, notebooks, glue, scissors (all sizes, left/right-handed), rulers (standard/metric), markers, highlighters, and Crayola crayons.
Made possible by Trucordia.
Friday, Aug. 8 is
Food Drive Friday
Receive free gate admission between 11 a.m. and 3 p.m. at Gates 1 or 5 with a donation of four food
items (such as canned proteins, fruits, vegetables, dry pinto beans, rice and pasta) to bene t the Whatcom County Food Bank Network.
Food Drive Friday is made possible by Brown & Brown.
Sunday, Aug. 10 is
Free Admission Morning
All community members receive free gate admission at Gates 1 or 5 between 9 a.m. and 11 a.m.
Courtesy of Peoples Bank.
Monday,
Aug. 11
is First Responders Day
Honoring those who risk it all to help others. All law enforcement officers, EMTs, and firefighters with valid ID receive complimentary gate admission, including their spouse and children.
Must enter through Gate 1 or 5.
Made possible by Puget Sound Energy.
Tuesday, Aug. 12 is
Military Appreciation Day
Saying thank you to our nation’s heroes by providing complimentary gate admission for all active duty, retired, and veteran military personnel with valid ID, including their spouse and children. Must enter through Gate 1 or 5.
Made possible by Victory Legal Services PLLC.
Wednesday, Aug. 13 is
Kids Day
Arrive at gates 1 or 5 and all kids, age 12 and under receive complimentary gate admission.
Made possible by WRS.
Thursday, Aug. 14 is
Western Washington University Day
All Western Washington University students, alumni, faculty, and sta with valid ID receive $2 o gate admission. Tickets must be purchased at Gates 1 or 5. Made possible by Western Washington University.
Banda El Limon
LYNDEN — La Original Banda El Limon will perform as part of the 2025 Bank of the Paci c Grandstand Entertainment Series.
is iconic Banda group is set to take the stage Sunday, Aug. 10 at 7 p.m. is show is presented by MyTra cMan.NET.
Founded on Jan. 15, 1965, by Don Salvador Lizárraga, La Original Banda El Limon has since had the privilege of being the rst Sinaloan band to usher in
a new era in its genre by incorporating sound equipment and having a vocalist as a member of the group.
Today, this remarkable band’s success demonstrates how regional Mexican music is one of the most powerful genres.
Notable group members have included Julio Preciado, Jorge Cordero, José Ángel Ledezma “El Coyote,” Nico Flores, Chuy Lizárraga, Antonio Lizárraga, Israel Valdez and Lorenzo Méndez. Current
vocalists include Jose Ramón Maldonado, Kevin Melendres and Víctor Noriega. is show is open seating and tickets are $30. e price does not include Fair gate admission, which is required.
Tickets can be purchased online at nwwafair.com, the Fair O ce, 1775 Front St., Lynden, or by phone at 360-354-4111. VIP and group ticketing are also available. e 2025 Northwest Washington Fair will be presented Aug. 7-16.
Longtime announcer Jody Carper has worked the Lynden PRCA Rodeo for nearly a decade. For Carper, the evolution of the Lynden Rodeo reflects broader shifts in both the rodeo world and American culture. (Courtesy photo)
By Joe Kramer
This year marks the Lynden PRCA Rodeo’s 20th anniversary and its growth has been clear to those who have been part of it over the years.
For longtime announcer Jody Carper, who’s worked the event for nearly a decade, the evolution of the Lynden Rodeo re ects broader shifts in both the rodeo world and American culture.
“When I rst got there, there weren’t many fans coming. It was about half full,” Carper said. “Be honest with you, I
think they might have been considering making a move and doing something di erent with the rodeo.”
That shift never came and instead, the Lynden PRCA Rodeo adapted. From upgraded sound systems to top-tier livestock, the event committed to becoming a premier stop on the Professional Rodeo Cowboys Association (PRCA) circuit.
“They’ve really stepped up to the plate,” Carper said. “We combined the old school with a rock and roll show. People like the high energy. When we have fun, the people can feel that and
they have fun too.”
That crowd energy is what keeps Carper, who has announced professionally since age 18, coming back.
“For me, I’m all about crowds,” he said. “ ey’re loud, big, have fun. e electricity makes everything better.”
What began as a small component of the Northwest Washington Fair has now become one of the event’s biggest draws. Over the past four years, the rodeo has sold out every performance. Carper cred-
PRCA: 20th anniversary of rodeo
Above and on opposite page: Professional rodeo action consists of roughstock events and timed events. (Tribune file photo)
Continued from 17
its that momentum not only to the fans, but also to the organizing committee and fair sta who have made continual improvements.
“When I rst got there, we were still using the horns o the grandstands for sound,” Carper said. “You can’t let people feel the energy when you’re doing that. When they decided to let us use concert sound, that made a big di erence.”
e Lynden PRCA Rodeo also bene ts from a strong relationship with C5 Rodeo Company, which supplies livestock and has worked with the event since 2017.
“Lynden has an energy that’s hard to beat,” said Gillian Grant of C5. “ e crowds are engaged, the community backs the event in a big way, and there’s a great balance of tradition and professionalism.”
According to Grant, the rodeo’s success is also rooted in the people run -
ning it.
“The Lynden committee is easy to work with, and genuinely cares about putting on a great event,” she said.
“There’s a real sense of pride in what they’re doing and that shows.” at pride often translates into behind-the-scenes moments that fans never see.
“Some of the best memories are the
The Lynden PRCA Rodeo also benefits from a strong relationship with C5 Rodeo Company, which supplies livestock and has worked with the event since 2017. (Tribune file photo)
PRCA: 20 years at NWW Fair
Continued from 18
times when we’ve had to problem-solve on the fly,” Grant said. “Whether it’s weather or a last-minute hiccup, the team always comes together and nds a way through.”
For Carper, rodeo has always been about more than entertainment. Raised in Texas and now based in San Diego, he began roping at age 4. After transitioning
from competitor to announcer, he’s made a career of traveling across the U.S. calling rodeos with his signature Texas draw.
He sees rodeo as a link to the past and a re ection of values he believes are increasingly rare in sports.
“We really are the last sport that believes in God, country and freedom,” Carper said. “That comes out in my voice sometimes too much and gets me in trouble with some people. But that’s what I believe.”
He believes audiences respond to that.
“I think people want to get back to those roots,” he said. “Rodeo brings them back to the 1800s when we were still doing all the same things.”
ough the events have changed over time, many still have practical applications in the ranching world. At the same time, rodeos have learned to blend that
heritage with entertainment value. It’s part of what’s helped the sport grow even through di cult times. If you’re sitting in the crowd, be prepared for a John Dutton reference over the loudspeaker.
“When COVID happened, Yellowstone happened at about the same time,” Carper said. “It’s like when the Urban Cowboy movie came out and everybody wanted to wear a cowboy hat because of John Travolta. Yellowstone has brought that back for us.”
While networks like Cowboy Channel have also helped raise the pro le of PRCA events, Carper believes popular shows like Yellowstone reach a di erent audience.
“ e average person probably doesn’t know who Cowboy Channel is yet. But the average person knows what Yellowstone is,” he said. “People want to be like what they see in the movies.”
This year’s 20th anniversary rodeo brings a major addition to the lineup: John Harrison, an eight-time PRCA Specialty Act of the Year winner and 10time Wrangler National Finals Rodeo
performer. Carper says Harrison’s arrival is a milestone.
“He’s one of the best in the business,” Carper said. “It’s pretty cool to get to have a guy of his caliber there.”
Harrison replaces longtime barrelman Matt Merritt this year due to a scheduling conflict. Carper said both performers bring variety to the arena.
“If you watch me, I don’t do the same opening every night,” Carper said. “I don’t say the same things. I want people to go out there and see something di erent. at’s what I loved about Matt and I think John will bring that too.”
For Carper, preparation is key to delivering that experience.
“It’s 20 to 30 hours a week just to get ready,” he said.
Carper uses a custom software system with more than 20,000 contestant pro les and 18,000 animals to track stats, matchups and rodeo results. While sports broadcasters in other major leagues are given stat packets, PRCA announcers still do most of the research themselves.
“We’re not like the NBA or NFL where
announcers are getting a lot of that data handed to them,” he said.
With two decades now behind it, the Lynden Rodeo looks to the future with con dence.
“Twenty years is a big deal,” Grant said. “It’s a chance to look back at how far the event has come — and we’re proud to have played a role in helping it grow.”
Carper agrees and sees momentum building.
“I think we’re on the rise right now,” he said. “Let’s continue. Let’s go.”
He hopes the event keeps pushing boundaries.
“I don’t want it to be stale,” Carper said. “I want to see them continue to rise and think outside the box.”
Even after thousands of performances, Carper still sees something special in the Lynden Rodeo.
“If you haven’t seen it before, it’s amazing. If you have, you know what it is — so you’ll be back,” he said. “You better get your tickets early. e last two
See PRCA on 22
PRCA: Rodeo this year is Aug. 11-12
Continued from 21
years sold out before it even got close to rodeo time.”
As Lynden celebrates its 20th anniversary, organizers, fans and performers alike are already looking ahead, riding a
wave of momentum built on tradition, energy and community.
This year’s Lynden PRCA Rodeo is Aug. 11-12. Rodeo performances start at 7 p.m. Grandstand reserved seats are $30 each, for kids 12 and younger tickets are $12 each.
Rodeo ticket does not include gate admission, unless you buy VIP seats. VIP tickets are $159 each and include parking, gate admission, dinner and the best seats in the house.
More information or buy tickets at nwwafair.com.
This year’s Lynden PRCA Rodeo’s adult tickets are $30, and tickets for children 12 and under are $12. Rodeo ticket does not include gate admission, unless you buy VIP seats. VIP tickets are $159 each and include parking, gate admission, dinner and the best seats in the house. (Tribune file photo)
ce today
Wednesday, August 13
Jake Owen
The Northwest Washington Fair welcomes country music sensation Jake Owen to the 2025 Bank of the Pacific Grandstand Entertainment Series. (Courtesy photo)
LYNDEN — e Northwest Washington Fair welcomes country music sensation Jake Owen to the 2025 Bank of the Paci c Grandstand Entertainment Series.
Owen will take the stage at 7 p.m. Wednesday, Aug. 13. is show is presented by Manna Insurance Group.
With 10 No.1 hit singles and over 3 billion U.S. on-demand streams, Jake Owen has ascended to stardom as a mainstay country staple.
Known for his laid-back style and genrede ning hits like “Barefoot Blue Jean Night” and “American Country Love Song,” Owen’s album, “Greetings From ... Jake,” delivered three No.1 hits: “Made For You,” “Homemade” and “I Was Jack (You Were Diane).”
Praised by Billboard as a “country-grounded odyssey,” the record follows popular album “American Love,” which debuted at No.1 on Billboard’s Top Country Albums chart.
Grandstand reserved seats are $50, grandstand preferred seats are $65 and preferred chairs are $75. Prices do not include Fair gate admission, which is required.
Tickets can be purchased online at nwwafair.com, the Fair O ce, 1775 Front St., Lynden, or by phone at 360-354-4111. VIP and group ticketing are also available.
e 2025 Northwest Washington Fair will be presented Aug. 7-16.
Thursday, August 14
Chandler Moore
LYNDEN — Renowned Christian artist Chandler Moore will perform at the Bank of the Paci c Grandstand Entertainment Series for the 2025 Fair, ursday, Aug. 14 at 7 p.m. is show is presented by Manna Insurance Group.
A Grammy-winning singer/songwriter, Moore is known for his chart-topping success and has quickly been established as one of music’s most proli c voices. rough collaborations with the likes of Justin Bieber, Tori Kelly and Kirk Franklin, Moore hit the music scene with high regard from the industry and consumers alike and continues that momentum with his recently released live solo project and his current single “Lead Me On.”
Moore is also a member of Maverick City Music, a collective of worshippers who work in the contemporary Christian music and gospel world.
Through a rapid trajectory of success in the music industry, Moore has received ve Grammy Awards, four GMA Dove Awards, one Billboard Music Award and one Soul Train Music Award, along with Maverick City.
Grandstand reserved seats are $25, grandstand preferred seats are $30 and preferred chairs are $35. Prices do not include Fair gate admission, which is required.
Tickets can be purchased online at nwwafair.com, the Fair O ce, 1775 Front St., Lynden, or by phone at 360-354-4111. VIP and group ticketing are also available. e 2025 Northwest Washington Fair will be presented Aug. 7-16.
Renowned Christian artist Chandler Moore will perform at the Bank of the Pacific Grandstand Entertainment Series for the 2025 Fair. (Courtesy photo)
Friday, August 15
Hip-Hop Throwback Night
LYNDEN — e Northwest Washington Fair will present Hip Hop rowback Night featuring artists Chingy, Ginuwine and Ying Yang Twins at 7 p.m. Friday, Aug. 15 as they join the 2025 Bank of the Pacific Grandstand Entertainment Series. Presented by Rhema Electric Inc.
Chingy is a GRAMMY® nominated multi-platinum entertainer who has ascended to the Billboard Hot 100 chart eight times and achieved rapid mainstream success with the release of his double-Platinum RIAA certified debut album, “Jackpot,” and smash hits “Right urr,” “Holidae In,” “One Call Away,” “Pullin’ Me Back,” “I Do,” “Dem Jeans,” and many more.
He’s also acted in small screen roles in television comedy series “My Wife and Kids,” “One on One,” “George Lopez,” “Yo Momma,” as well as cameos in several lms, including “Scary Movie 4” and “Speed Dating.”
Ginuwine has released a number of multi-platinum and platinum-selling albums and
singles, becoming one of R&B’s top artists during the 1990s heyday of hip-hop soul.
His stardom continued into the 2000s. In 2001, Ginuwine had a number-four hit on the Billboard Hot 100 with the single “ Di erences,” which also peaked at number-one on the Billboard Hot R&B/Hip-Hop Singles & Tracks chart.
Other hits include his single “Pony” and album “Back II Da Basics,” which debuted at number 12 on the Billboard 200, selling close to 100,000 copies.
Ginuwine stated on BET’s Top 100 countdown that the album went Gold with sales of 500,000 copies.
Atlanta’s party rap duo, Ying Yang Twins have many songs that are massive hits. “Salt Shaker,” “What’s Happenin!,” “Wait ( e Whisper Song),” and more were extremely successful tracks. eir nationwide success launched after their 2003 team-up with Lil Jon — “the King of Crunk” —and followed for years to come.
Grandstand reserved seats are $35, grandstand preferred
The Northwest Washington Fair will present Hip Hop Throwback Night featuring artists Chingy, Ginuwine and Ying Yang Twins. (Courtesy photo)
seats are $50, and preferred chairs are $60. Prices do not include Fair gate admission, which is required.
Tickets can be purchased
online at nwwafair.com, the Fair O ce, 1775 Front St., Lynden, or by phone at 360-3544111. VIP and group ticketing are also available.
Chingy part of Hip-Hop Throwback Night
GRAMMY® nominated multi-platinum entertainer CHINGY has ascended to the Billboard Hot 100 chart eight times and achieved rapid mainstream success with the release of his double-Platinum RIAA certi ed debut album, “Jackpot,” and smash hits “Right Thurr,” “Holidae In,” “One Call Away,” “Pullin’ Me Back,” “I Do,” “Dem Jeans,” and many more.
CHINGY’s indelible hits have been featured in blockbuster lms, including “Norbit” starring Eddie Murphy, Marvel Comics/20th Century Fox’s “Fantastic Four” and Universal’s “2 Fast 2 Furious.”
On screen, CHINGY’s acting chops include small screen roles in television comedy series “My Wife and Kids,” “One on One,” “George Lopez,” “Yo Momma,” as well as cameos in several films, including “Scary Movie 4” and “Speed Dating.”
A St. Louis, Missouri native, CHINGY began writing lyrics when he was 9 and began to perform soon after. CHINGY’s debut LP, “Jackpot,” embodied his fresh energy thanks to his unique slang like “thurr” and “hurr,” as well as the dizzying synth-based melodies.
CHINGY quickly managed to build a global fanbase due to his accented, catchy hooks while men copied his style by rocking oversized colorful bandanas beneath their baseball caps.
His collaborations include “Holidae In,” featuring Snoop Dogg and Ludacris, which scored a GRAMMY® nomination for Best Rap Collaboration in
Chingy will perform at the 2025 Northwest Washington Fair. (Courtesy photo)
2004; “Don’t Worry” with Janet Jackson; “Right urr (Remix)” featuring Jermaine Dupri and Trina; “Dem
Jeans” also featuring Jermaine Dupri; “One Call Away” featuring J-Weav and many more.
CHINGY continues to release new music, including “Nu Beginnings,” in early 2024.
Ginuwine part of Hip-Hop Throwback Night
Elgin Baylor Lumpkin (born Oct. 15, 1970 in Washington, D.C.), better known by his stage name Ginuwine, is an American singer and performer. Signed to Epic Records since the mid-1990s, Ginuwine has released a number of multi-platinum and platinum-selling albums and singles, becoming one of R&B’s top artists during the 1990s heyday of hip-hop soul.
Ginuwine can be spotted in one of Jodeci’s videos. ere, he met rapper Missy Elliott and producer Timbaland, who became his main collaborators through the 1990s.
Ginuwine’s rst single, the 1996 “Pony” from “Ginuwine ... e Bachelor”, showcased his smooth vocals and Timbaland’s innovative production style, and the two became a hit-making duo.
After his second album, “100% Ginuwine,” released in 1999, Ginuwine and Timbaland grew apart, and producers such as R. Kelly have crafted hits for him since then.
In 2001, Ginuwine had a number- four hit on the Billboard Hot 100 with the single “ Di erences”, which also peaked at number-one on the Billboard Hot R&B/ Hip-Hop Singles & Tracks chart.
In 2002, Ginuwine was a feature artist on P. Diddy’s number-one hit “I Need a Girl (Part II).”
Ginuwine’s fifth album, “Back II Da Basics,” was released on Nov. 15, 2005. e album debuted at number 12 on the Billboard 200, selling close to 100,000 copies.
Ginuwine stated on BET’s Top 100 countdown that the
Ginuwine will perform at the 2025 Northwest Washington Fair. (Courtesy photo)
album went Gold with sales of 500,000 copies.
In May 2007, an album titled “I Apologize” was released in stores.
Although attributed to Ginuwine, the release was an unauthorized album and only included three Ginuwine songs - apparently from stolen masters - and 10 songs by other artists. Ginuwine spoke against the uno cial release on both his MySpace
page and through YouTube.
Ginuwine’s sixth album, titled “A Man’s Thoughts,” was released on June 23, 2009. Ginuwine formed a group with Tank and Tyrese named TGT.
Their first single was a remix of Tank’s “Please Don’t Go.” ey were supposed to tour but plans fell apart due to con icting schedules.
Ginuwine announced on his MySpace Blog on Aug.
21, 2008 that due to label and legal issues they will not be able to release an o cial TGT album.
Ginuwine is the founder and CEO of LoveSong Incorporated, after completing his contract with 550 Music/ Epic.
Ginuwine announced on his MySpace blog on Aug. 21, 2008 that he signed a major label deal with Noti Records/Warner Brothers.
Yin Yang Twins join Throwback Night
Atlanta’s party rap duo Ying Yang Twins scored a hit with the single “Whistle While You Twurk,” which received nationwide airplay on urban and crossover radio stations.
eir full-length debut album “ ug Walkin’” appeared later in 2000. “Alley...Return of the Ying Yang Twins” from 2002 sold well down South, but it was the duo’s 2003 team-up with Lil Jon -- “the King of Crunk” -- that brought them nationwide success.
e party anthem “Salt Shaker” was a massive club and radio hit and soon had the TVT label chasing the duo to sign.
ey did, and their rst album for the label, “Me & My Brother,” yielded two more crunk hits, “What’s Happnin!” and “Naggin’.”
e same year the duo appeared on Britney Spears’ album “In the Zone” and her television special of the same name.
In 2004, TVT released the remix- lled “My Brother & Me” with a bonus DVD of the group’s videos.
“USA (United State of Atlanta)” appeared in the summer of 2005 as its single “Wait ( e Whisper Song)” was dominating urban radio. “Chemically Imbalanced” followed in 2006.
The Ying Yang Twins will perform at the 2025 Northwest Washington Fair. (Courtesy photo)
LYNDEN — To an already sold-out crowd, ZZ Top will take the stage at e Northwest Washington Fair in Lynden at 7 p.m. Saturday, Aug. 16.
The legendary rock band will join the 2025 Bank of the Paci c Grandstand Entertainment Series.
ZZ Top has released 15 studio albums and sold an estimated 50 million records. They have won three MTV Video Music Awards, and in 2004, the members were inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame.
Fresh from the triumphant run of concert dates in Australia and New Zealand, ZZ Top is set to embark on the next leg of their ongoing Elevation Tour. For this run of North American dates, drummer Frank Beard, who had been sidelined for the last few months, is rejoining the lineup.
The band’s management revealed that the foot and ankle issues that he had been dealing with have been resolved and he’s now set to see the tour through to its completion in October.
ZZ front man Billy Gibbons commented, “We’re happy that Frank is back with (bassist) Elwood (Francis) and yours truly, BFG. We missed him and are looking forward to turning it up and rocking out with him as has
ZZ Top
ZZ Top: Aug. 16 at NWW Fair in Lynden
been the case for the last few hundred or so decades. His complete recovery is cause for celebration and that’s just what we intend to do on an open-ended basis. Welcome back, pardner”
Beard, a man of few words, known for his percussive talent and, despite his surname, lack of signi cant whiskers, said “It’s good to be back. See you out there.”
ZZ Top has been at it for well over a half century delivering rock, blues and boogie on stage and in studio to millions of devoted fans. With iconography as distinctive as their sound, ZZ Top is globally recognized with their beards, hotrod cars, spinning guitars
and that magic keychain, all of which transcend geography and language.
As a touring out t, they’ve been without peer over the past five decades, having performed before millions of fans on four continents and have been the subject of their own Grammy-nominated documentary titled “That Little Ol’ Band From Texas.”
The band’s Billy F. Gibbons said, “We love getting out there and turning it up so excited about these new dates because this tour’s been a ride so far and we don’t want it to end anytime soon.”
They have sold millions of records over the course of their career, have been o cially designated as Heroes of The State of Texas,
ZZ Top will join the 2025 Bank of the Pacific Grandstand Entertainment Series. (Courtesy photo)
inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame (by Keith Richards, no less) and have been referenced in countless cartoons and sitcoms. ey are true rock icons and, against all odds, they’re really just doing what they’ve always done.
The 2025 Northwest Washington Fair will be presented Aug. 7-16.
Hypnotist, magician, reptiles and more
For many years, the Banner Bank Stage has been home to some of the most thrilling and notable live acts from performers across the Pacific Northwest. Here are some of the acts that will perform at this year’s NWW Fair, free with fair gate admission, Aug. 7-16 in Lynden.
GUARDIAN: A rock band from Lynden, Guardian blends hardhitting ri s with thoughtful lyrics, while also covering songs from classics across multiple genres. Guardian is excited to contribute to the Pacific Northwest music scene. They’ll take the stage every night at 8 p.m. (Courtesy photo)
THE REPTILE LADY: Presenting every day at 4 p.m and 7 p.m, the Northwest Washington Fair will host a reptile show on the Banner Bank Stage where April Jackson, known as the Reptile Lady, will show o a diverse roster of amphibians, lizards and reptiles to educate Whatcom families on all the ways they can interact with wildlife at home and across the world. (Tribune file photo)
Daily Schedule of events
10 a.m. – 4-H Performing Arts (not on Aug. 7)
Noon – Dueling Pianos
1 p.m. – Sterling Dietz
2 p.m. – Tammy Harris Barton
3 p.m. – Dueling Pianos
DUELING PIANOS: Blake Guyre is a powerhouse pianist, singer and entertainer who has wowed audiences across the country with his musical talents, magnetic stage presence, and highenergy performances. Get ready to join in the fun with this highenergy, crowd-powered performance as Blake leads an interactive Dueling Pianos showdown at noon and again at 3 p.m. each day. With piano skills and dynamic vocals, this Dueling Piano Duo takes audience requests, invites sing-alongs, and promises endless laughs, music and unforgettable family-friendly entertainment.
4 p.m. – Reptile Lady
5 p.m. – Tammy Harris Barton
6 p.m. – Sterling Dietz
7 p.m. – Reptile Lady
8 p.m. – Guardian
TAMMY HARRIS BARTON: A mesmerizing and highly skilled hypnotist, Tammy Harris Barton has captivated audiences with her extraordinary talent and engaging stage presence. Known for her ability to e ortlessly blend humor, intrigue and the mysterious art of hypnosis, Barton will take the Banner Bank Stage every day at 2 p.m. and 5 p.m. During her show you never know who might show up to share her stage. Only the imagination of her volunteers will limit their journey. Barton always maintains the highest level of respect for her volunteers and never embarrasses or humiliates any one on stage. Whether performing at high schools, colleges, corporate events, state or county fairs, private parties or night clubs, Barton’s performance will provide you with an intriguing and hilarious show that will be remembered by all for years to come.
LYNDEN VETERINARY HOSPITAL
Baking and canning
Discover jellies, jams, cookies, cakes and more at the Baking & Canning exhibit in the Peoples Bank Farm Pavilion.
Don’t miss this flavorful display that showcases the incredible talents of our local community.
FFA competitive exhibits and shows sponsored by EPL Feed.
4-H competitive exhibits and shows sponsored by Scholten’s Equipment.
Open Class competitive exhibits and shows sponsored by Exact Scienti c Services.
FREE BOOKSFORKIDS
Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library is a low-barrier literacy program that mails one new book each month to registered children under 5 in Whatcom County at no cost to families! United Way of Whatcom County covers the cost and manages this program locally for our community’s kids.
Brought to you by United Way of Whatcom County
Register a child! Support this program!
visitwww.unitedwaywhatcom.org/imagination-library/ for more information
LIBROS PARA NIÑOS GRATIS
¡Dolly Parton's Imagination Library es un programa de alfabetización que envía un nuevo libro cada mes a niños menores de cinco (5) años que viven en el condado de Whatcom! United Way del Condado de Whatcom financia y administra este programa para los niños de nuestra comunidad.
¡Registrar un niño/a!
visita www.unitedwaywhatcom.org/imagination-library/ para másinformación
¡Apoyar este programa!
Getyour ticket(s) to ride
Funtastic Traveling Shows provides hours of Funtastic Entertainment with rides and games for fairgoers of all ages.
Things to know before you go:
• All-day ride passes are available before Aug. 7 for $42 online.
• During the 10 days of the Fair, all-day ride passes can be purchased at carnival ticket booths for $55.
• Wristbands are valid for any one day of the Fair and must be redeemed by 8 p.m.
For more information about Fantastic Traveling Shows, visit funtasticshows.com. NWW Fair Carnival is open from 11 a.m. until 10 p.m. daily.
‘Always something to watch or to do’ at the Fair Q&A WITH LACEY VANDERVEEN
Lacey VanderVeen grew up on a dairy farm between Lynden and Everson.
A Lynden High School graduate, VanderVeen has served as the Northwest Washington Fair’s Competitive Events Coordinator since the 2022 fair.
Before that, she served about a decade as the fair’s premium clerk, helping with data management.
The following is from a recent interview with Lacey VanderVeen.
Lynden Tribune: What exactly do you do as competitive events coordinator?
Lacey VanderVeen: Part of what I do as Competitive Events Coordinator is oversee the Department Superintendents, I am the go between them and other Fair staff. I work to make the Superintendents time at Fair easier.
I manage all the entry data, sending reports to Superintendents, 4-H Leaders, FFA Advisors and exhibitors. I update the Premium Books and website.
Often, I will make updates
based on questions from exhibitors to clarify expectations, I hope rst time exhibitors are able to easily make entries. I also get to order and distribute all the ribbons and trophies. Today I unpacked 104 trophies for 4-H.
Tribune: What sorts of skills and know-how did you need to take the job?
VanderVeen: Knowledge of the Fair’s Competitive Events is a huge asset. While growing up I entered Open Class, 4-H and FFA in lots of di erent Departments. Having a background in 4-H and
FFA is helpful in understanding those programs today.
There is a lot of data to management with almost 10,000 entries registered. At Lynden High School and Whatcom Community College I took classes to earn a Business Information Systems Certi cate.
Having that education on how to use and explore computer programs is a bene t. I am able to manipulate and customize reports to best t each Departments’ needs. I attended Western Washington University for a degree in Business Management. at helped me to learn to see the big picture and how things affect each other. It also taught me how to delegate while working as a team.
Tribune: What do you like most about your work?
VanderVeen: I like the variety of my day to day tasks. I could be sitting at my computer, meeting with a Superintendent, taking inventory of ribbons, preparing supplies for Departments, or be out on the fairgrounds check-
ing building set up. I love providing exhibitors the Fair experience like what I had growing up.
Tribune: What all do you like about the annual Northwest Washington Fair?
VanderVeen: I love how the community comes together at the Fair. I like watching exhibitors show their friends and family their entries. I enjoy walking through the animal barns, watching the small stage shows and eating Fair food.
Tribune: How is the NWW Fair better than the other fairs you have attended?
VanderVeen: We have grass and trees. Our fairgrounds are clean, the buildings are upkept and the people are friendly. ere is always something to watch or do.
Tribune: Is there anything I have not asked you that you think is worth mentioning?
VanderVeen: e superintendents do an excellent job running their departments.
Lacey VanderVeen
Board of Directors
Year-Round Staff
Deane SandellJohn
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Magic man Sterling Dietz returns to Northwest Washington Fair
Former Lynden resident Sterling Dietz returns to the Northwest Washington Fair with two di erent sets for multiple shows at the Northwest Washington Fair, Aug. 7-16 in Lynden. His show encompasses sleight of hand magic tricks, comedy and dancing. (Photo courtesy Sterling Dietz)
A Lynden High School graduate, Sterling Dietz will perform his magic on the Banner Bank Stage at the Northwest Washington Fair in Lynden, Aug. 7-16.
Sterling has amazed audiences all over the globe. For the past decade he has performed his show in the sunny shores of Cabo, Mexico.
He has won international awards for
his unique combination of music, dance, story-telling and grand illusion.
Sterling saw his rst magic show in 2006 and instantly found his passion for the performing arts.
“I’ll never forget that moment I experienced magic for the rst time,” he said at his website, magicsterling.com. “To be able to share that wonder with my
audience and bring them together, is the reason I perform.”
Come join us at the Northwest Washington Fair in Lynden as Sterling Dietz magically weaves stories filled with drama, comedy and illusion suitable for the entire family. Experience the magic as you’re transported to a time and place, lled with wonder and amazement.
2025 NWW Fair judging schedule
Competitive Events: FFA
*Schedules Subject to Change
Friday, Aug. 8
1 p.m. -- Judging Contest at Walton Beverage Warm Up Arena
Tuesday, Aug. 12
Noon -- Poultry Fitting & Showing at Small Animal Tent
1:30 p.m. -- FFA Meat Goat Type followed by 4-H Meat Goat Type at Goat Ring
4 p.m. -- FFA Sheep Type followed by
4-H Sheep Type at Goat Ring
5 p.m. -- Poultry Type at Tractor Supply Rabbits & Poultry Barn
5 p.m. -- Swine Type at Swine Arena
Wednesday, Aug. 13
8 a.m. -- Rabbit & Cavy Fitting & Showing at Small Animal Tent
9 a.m. -- Sheep FFA Sheep Fit & Show followed by 4-H Sheep Fit & Show at Goat Ring
7 p.m. -- Dairy Best Dressed Contest at CHS Beef & Dairy Arena
Friday, Aug. 8
TBD -- Public Presentations at Salish
Wealth Management Horse Barn
TBD -- On the Spot Decorating Contest at Peoples Bank Farm Pavilion
8 a.m. -- Horse Performance at Papé Machinery Arena
9 a.m. -- Dog Obedience at Small Animal Tent
10 a.m. -- Performing Arts at Banner Bank Festival Stage
10:30 a.m. -- Horse Performance at Papé Machinery Arena
11 a.m. -- Llama Fitting and Showing at Goat Ring
11 a.m. -- Dairy Fitting and Showing at CHS Beef & Dairy Arena
1 p.m. -- Horse Judging Contest at Walton Beverage Warm Up Arena
2 p.m. -- Llama Obstacle Course at Goat Ring
Competitive Events on 52
Competitive Events: 4-H, continued
2:30 p.m. -- Poultry Knowledge Bowl at Small Animal Tent
4 p.m. -- Dog Costume Contest at Small Animal Tent
4 p.m. -- Llama Judging at Goat Ring
4:15 p.m. -- Dog Trick Class at Small Animal Tent
5:30 p.m. -- Horse Gaming at Papé Machinery Arena
7 p.m. -- Goat Costume Contest at Goat Ring
7:30 p.m. -- Dog Obstacle Course at Small Animal Tent
7:30 p.m. -- Horse Driving at Papé Machinery Arena
Saturday, Aug. 9
8 a.m. -- Horse Performance at Papé Machinery Arena
9 a.m. -- Dog Judging Contest at Small Animal Tent
9 a.m. -- Dairy Holstein Type (Heifer Classes) at CHS Beef & Dairy Arena
10 a.m. -- Performing Arts at Banner Bank Festival Stage
10 a.m. -- Dog Identi cation Contest at Small Animal Tent
10:30 a.m. -- Horse Performance at Papé Machinery Arena
11 a.m. -- Llama Public Relations at Goat Ring
11 a.m. -- Public Presentations Cloverbud Show and Tell Presentations at Peoples Bank Farm Pavilion
1 p.m. -- Dairy Holstein Type (Cow Classes) at CHS Beef & Dairy Arena
1 p.m. -- Public Presentations at Peoples Bank Farm Pavilion
1 p.m. -- Public Presentations at Henry Jansen Ag Center
2 p.m. -- Llama Skills Handler at Goat Ring
3 p.m. -- Poultry Drag Races at Small Animal Tent
3 p.m. -- Goat Driving Performance at Goat Ring
4 p.m. -- Llama Packing at Goat Ring
5 p.m. -- Goat Pack Performance at Goat Ring
5:30 p.m. -- Horse Gaming at Papé Machinery Arena
7 p.m. -- Dog Show Highlights at Small Animal Tent
7:30 p.m. -- Horse Gaming at Papé Machinery Arena
Llama competitive events will be judged in the Goat Ring. (Tribune file photo)
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Competitive Events: 4-H, continued
Sunday, Aug. 10
Time
4-H Schedule Time
8 a.m. -- Poultry Judging Contest at Small Animal Tent
8 a.m. -- Horse Classes at Papé Machinery Arena
8:30 a.m. -- Poultry Type (Poultry Barn Closed for Judging) at Tractor Supply Rabbits & Poultry Barn
10 a.m. -- Performing Arts at Banner Bank Festival Stage
10 a.m. -- Horse Gaming at Papé Machinery Arena
11:30 a.m. -- Dairy Guernsey Type at CHS Beef & Dairy Arena
11:30 a.m. -- Poultry Fitting & Showing at Small Animal Tent
1 p.m. -- Horse Performance Championship at Papé Machinery Arena
1 p.m. -- Goat Pygmy Fitting & Showing at Goat Ring
3 p.m. -- Dairy Brown Swiss & Other Breeds Type at
CHS Beef & Dairy Arena
4 p.m. -- Food Activities Foods On the Spot Cooking Contest at Peoples Bank Farm Pavilion
4 p.m. -- Goat Pack Fitting & Showing at Goat Ring
5 p.m. -- Horse Performance Championship at Papé Machinery Arena
5 p.m. -- Goat Novelty Fitting & Showing at Goat Ring
6 p.m. -- Goat Cloverbud Show at Goat Ring
7 p.m. -- Horse Reining at Papé Machinery Arena
Monday, Aug. 11
8 a.m. -- Horse Classes at Papé Machinery Arena
9 a.m. -- Dairy Jersey Type at CHS Beef & Dairy Arena
10 a.m. -- Performing Arts at Banner Bank Festival Stage
10 a.m.-- Goat Pygmy Type at Goat Ring
10:30 a.m. -- Horse Costume Class at Papé Machinery Arena
Competitive Events: 4-H, continued
11:30 a.m. -- Clothing & Textiles On the Spot Sewing Contest
Start Time at Peoples Bank Farm Pavilion
1 p.m. -- Public Presentations at Peoples Bank Farm Pavilion
1 p.m. -- Poultry Best Dressed Contest at Small Animal Tent
1 p.m. -- Dairy All Around Champions at CHS Beef & Dairy Arena
1 p.m. -- Horse Grand Entry at Walton Beverage Warm Up Arena
3 p.m. -- Goat Novelty Type at Goat Ring
Tuesday, Aug. 12
10 a.m. -- Performing Arts at Banner Bank Festival Stage 1 p.m. -- Public Presentations at
Beef events will be held in the CHS Beef & Dairy Arena. (Tribune file photo)
Peoples Bank Farm Pavilion
1 p.m. -- Public Presentations at Henry Jansen Ag Center
Northwest Washington Fair Magazine 2025 57
1:30 p.m. -- Beef Best Decorated Contest at CHS Beef & Dairy Arena
1:30 p.m. -- Meat Goat FFA Meat Goat Type followed by 4-H Meat Goat Type at Goat Ring
3 p.m. -- Arts & Crafts Crafters Challenge at Peoples Bank Farm Pavilion
4 p.m. -- Sheep FFA Sheep Type followed by 4-H Sheep Type at Goat Ring
Wednesday, Aug. 13
8 a.m. -- Rabbit & Cavy Fitting & Showing at Small Animal Tent
9 a.m. -- Swine Type at Swine Arena
See Competitive Events on 59
4-H Departments require 4-H Membership. 4-H is open to youth ages 5-19. FFA Departments require FFA membership. FFA is open to those 8th grade to age 21 or 3 years after graduation whichever is less. (Tribune file photo)
Competitive Events: 4-H, continued
9 a.m. -- Sheep FFA Sheep Fit & Show followed by 4-H Sheep Fit & Show at Goat Ring
10 a.m. -- Performing Arts at Banner
Bank Festival Stage
11:30 a.m. -- Clothing & Textiles
Clothing Style Review and Consumers of Fashion at Peoples Bank Farm Pavilion
1 p.m. -- Public Presentations at Peoples Bank Farm Pavilion
1 p.m. -- Public Presentations 4-H
Public Presentations at Henry Jansen
Ag Center
1 p.m. -- Rabbit Market Rabbit Type at Tractor Supply Rabbits & Poultry Barn
1 p.m. -- Meat Goat FFA Meat Goat Fit & Show followed by 4-H Meat
Goat Fit & Show at Goat Ring
1 p.m. -- Beef FFA Beef Type followed by 4-H Beef Type at CHS
Beef & Dairy Arena
ursday, Aug. 14
6 a.m. -- Rabbit & Cavy Type at Tractor Supply Rabbits & Poultry Barn
9 a.m. -- Swine Fitting and Showing at Swine Arena
9 a.m. -- Goat FFA Dairy Goat Type followed by 4-H Dairy Goat Type at Goat Ring
Competitive Events 4-H: Monday, Aug. 11 at 1 p.m., the Horse Grand Entry at Walton Beverage Warm Up Arena. (Tribune file photo)
Competitive Events: 4-H,
continued
10 a.m. -- Performing Arts at Banner Bank Festival Stage
11 a.m. -- Public Presentations Cloverbud Show and Tell Presentations at Peoples Bank Farm Pavilion
11 a.m. -- Cat Judging Contest at Tractor Supply Dogs & Cats Barn
Noon -- Beef 4-H Beef Fit & Show followed by FFA Beef Fit & Show at CHS Beef & Dairy Arena
1 p.m. -- Public Presentations at Henry Jansen Ag Center
1 p.m. -- Goat FFA Dairy Goat Fit & Show followed by 4-H Dairy Goat Fit & Show at Goat Ring
2 p.m. -- Cat Fitting & Showing at Small Animal Tent
2 p.m. -- Food Activities Food Judging at Peoples Bank Farm Pavilion
3 p.m. -- Arts & Crafts Crafters Challenge at Peoples Bank Farm Pavilion
3 p.m. -- Food Activity Demonstrations at Peoples Bank Farm Pavilion
Friday, Aug. 15
9 a.m. -- Rabbit Judging at Tractor Supply Rabbits & Poultry Barn
10 a.m. -- Performing Arts at Banner
Bank Festival Stage
11 a.m. -- Cat ID & First Aid Contest at Tractor Supply Dogs & Cats Barn
11 a.m. -- Rabbit & Cavy Cloverbud Show at Small Animal Tent
11:30 a.m. -- Clothing & Textiles
Clothing Judging at Peoples Bank Farm Pavilion
The Open Class Competitive Exhibits & Shows are sponsored
photo)
Competitive Events: 4-H,
1 p.m. -- 4-H & FFA Lynden Junior Livestock Sale at CHS Beef & Dairy Arena
1 p.m. -- Public Presentations at Peoples Bank Farm Pavilion
5 p.m. -- Goat 4-H Goat Cloverbud Show followed by 4-H Best Decorated Contest at Goat Ring
6 p.m. -- Cat Type at Small Animal Tent
Saturday, Aug. 16
10 a.m. -- Performing Arts at Banner Bank Festival Stage
10 a.m. -- Small Animal Round Robin at Small Animal Tent
Show o your hard work at the Northwest Washington Fair. Enter one or more of our competitive categories below and compete for a ribbon and possible premiums. You will find information such as how to enter, entry deadlines, competition results and more listed. (Tribune file photo)
5 p.m. -- Beef Red Angus, Shorthorn, Simmental, & Other Breeds at CHS Beef & Dairy Arena
7 p.m. -- Horse Gaming at Papé Machinery Arena
Friday, Aug. 15
3:30 p.m. -- Horse Trail at Papé Machinery Arena
7:30 p.m. -- Horse Gaming at Papé Machinery Arena
Saturday, Aug. 16
9 a.m. -- Horse Working Pairs, Discipline Rail, & Versatility at Papé Machinery Arena
Visit nwwafair.com for more information about the fair’s competitive events. (Tribune file photo)
Thank you to the superintendents who make it possible for this community to display their hard work through one of the 38 competitive exhibit categories. Entrants compete for premiums, ribbons, trophies, and, of course, bragging rights. Find all of these exhibit areas on the NWWF grounds map located on page 88.
OC & 4-H Beef - Alison Mason
Open Class Light Horses - Allison Aurand
4-H Food Activities - Alyssa Boersma
4-H Family Living - Amy Pike
4-H Science - Amy Pike
4-H Llamas & Alpacas - Anggie Markland
4-H Foods - Annette Boersma
OC Heavy Horses - Bob Hamstra
4-H Sheep - Brenda Wight
OC Flowers - Cheryl Lallas
OC Grange - Cindy Kudsk
4-H Light Horses - Dori Wilson
OC & 4-H Poultry - Hope Musselwhite
4-H Arts & Crafts - Janel Black
4-H Clothing - Janel Black
OC & 4-H Dairy - Jim DeGroot
4-H Pygmy, Novelty, Pack Goats - Joyce Hubbard
FFA - Julie Milstead
4-H Dairy & Meat Goats - Kristi Harting
4-H Horticulture - Laura Zollner
OC Agriculture - Laura Zollner
4-H Photography - Lindsay Mount
4-H In Action - Lindsay Mount
Open Photography - Lindsay Mount
4-H Dogs - Marlene Noteboom
OC Sewing - Mary Elenbaas
OC Needlework & Quilts - Mary Elenbaas
4-H Educational Displays - Megan Cox
4-H Posters, Charts, & Banners - Megan Cox
4-H Public Presentations - Megan Cox
4-H Cats - Megan MacArthur
4-H Swine - Michael Johnston
OC Hobbies & Collections - Peggy Deem
OC Models, Legos & K’nex - Peggy Deem
OC Art - Peggy Deem
4-H Performing Arts - Sandra Matheson
OC & 4-H Rabbits - Shari Banta
OC Baking & Canning - Teresa Honcoop
Q&A WITH DEBBIE VANDERVEEN
A lifetime at the NWW Fair
Debbie VanderVeen, Whatcom County Dairy Ambassadors’ advisor, cherishes five core values
Since her teen years, the Northwest Washington Fair has been a vital part of Debbie VanderVeen’s life. Instrumental, she said, to be exact.
Why exactly does the Lynden resident love the fair so much? For starters, she cherishes its ve core values: Community, Youth, Agriculture, Education, and Entertainment.
VanderVeen explained recently that through the years, the Northwest Washington Fair retained its importance in her life as a teenager, a mother with children exhibiting, and now with grandchildren
who display their entries.
“Preparing, training, clipping, washing, caring for and feeding animals in preparation for our Fair was a full time summer project for me as both a 4-H member and FFA student,” She said. “But it’s not only animals that took time, e ort, and planning for Fair exhibiting. Selecting horticulture, baking cookies and mu ns, designing and sewing, art, science, the list goes on. ”
e following is from a recent interview with Debbie VanderVeen.
On behalf of Whatcom County Dairy Women, Debbie VanderVeen left, coordinates a partnership between Larson Gross and the 4-H and FFA dairy showmen. (Photo courtesy Brooke Weimer)
Debbie VanderVeen celebrates with her two year old grandson, Levi, after the Dairy Peewee Show in 2024. (Photo courtesy Brooke Weimer)
Lynden Tribune: Please tell us about your work with the Whatcom County Dairy Ambassadors.
Debbie VanderVeen: My youngest daughter and I serve as advisors to the Whatcom County Dairy Ambassadors. The Dairy Ambassador program
is a youth leadership experience practicing public relations, promotion of dairy products and representing the dairy community of Whatcom County. During the 10 days of the Fair, listen to the Dairy Ambassadors on local radio stations, find them at dairy cattle shows
and chat with them in places throughout the Fair while they meet and teach consumers about dairy. ey will be proud to tell you their dairy stories.
Tribune: What have your experiences taught you with the Fair?
VanderVeen: Being prepared for the unexpected is a grand learning tool in 4-H. One day at about 15 years old, I discovered my beautiful Holstein heifer had gotten her tail caught on something and she tore many hairs offthe tail was not going to win a blue ribbon in Fitting and Showing. My farmer friend and highly regarded mentor, Sherm Polinder, loaned me a fake tail. I tied it onto the end of my heifer’s tail and all was good. But, exhibiting her outside in the hot sun with ies in the air caused a problem. She swatted a fly and her new fake tail went ying. It landed near the judge. I quickly put it into my back pocket, continued walking her around the showring and still earned a blue
ribbon. inking about it later, how I must have looked with a tail hanging behind me.
Tribune: Knowledge is a valuable tool. How has your knowledge and passion for the Fair helped you as a 4-H leader and mentor to the community’s young people?
VanderVeen: Now I am able to share the excitement of the upcoming Fair with others. And what fun it is to see their excited faces at the Fair when taking a peek at their very rst ribbon. To me, our Northwest Washington Fair is the best Fair. Our community of volunteers work hard to make experiences great for youth. Whether our youth are age 5 or 18 the Fair o ers a place for them. My Everson FFA teen neighbor is preparing her show hog, a young friend in Ferndale practices leading her beef cattle daily, and one of my 4-H club families in Lynden has finished their educational posters. Just today a young 4-H’er told me about his two dairy goats and that one delivered twin
kids, and all are going to Fair in a few weeks. He smiled big the whole time he talked about them. How proud he is. e responsibilities, trustworthiness, good work habits, and skills are all treasured 4-H and FFA outcomes.
Tribune: What could you tell us about volunteerism in connection with the NWW Fair?
VanderVeen: Volunteers in our community have many options for serving and participating at the Fair. Judging exhibits, listening to youth presentations, or even sitting in the bleachers of a competitive animal show and cheering on all of the entries are awesome ways to support our youth. I love the interactions between participants and supporters. What fun it is to share life together. If you have never been to our Northwest Washington Fair, come this year. Experience and learn, laugh and have fun, find your neighbor, take a friend to lunch. Share a Moowich. e Fair is ready to greet each of you.
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Q&A WITH RENEE BEIMOLD
NW Fair still has ‘small-town feel’
Lynden born and Lynden raised, Renee Beimold began her work with the Northwest Washington Fair four years ago.
“I worked in the medical eld for 23 years prior to that and decided it was time for a change,” said Beimold, a Lynden High School graduate. “A friend that worked for the Fair told me about a job in the o ce and I applied and got hired. I worked as the front o ce manager for a year and then the opportunity came up to become the director of facility rentals and the vendor coordinator and I jumped into that role.”
The following is from a recent interview with Renee Beimold.
Lynden Tribune: What exactly do you do as vendor coordinator?
Renee Beimold: As the vendor coordinator I line up all of our vendors and spend a lot of time organizing and measuring space to make sure we have each vendor in the right location.
I spend a lot of time talk-
ing with our vendors and reviewing applications to make sure we have the right variety and combination of Commercial and Food vendors.
Tribune: Please tell us about the vendors who participate each year in the Northwest Washington Fair.
Renee Beimold
Beimold: Each year we have a lot of amazing vendors that return and I am grateful for them.
We couldn’t do our Fair without our vendors, and we have some of the best around.
We have a lot of local vendors, and vendors that travel from as far away as Florida. I have met some of the nicest people in this role.
I wouldn’t dare pick a favorite vendor, but the vendors
that come to the Fair from near and far pour their hearts into this event and make it a fun 10 days for me.
I hope everyone stops and visits with some of the vendors to hear their stories about where they come from and why they do what they do. They are great people.
Tribune: What all do you like about the annual Northwest Washington Fair in Lynden?
Beimold: I have been around the Fair my whole life.
I came to the Fair as a kid every year, worked picking up garbage at the Fairgrounds with my friend back in high school, and then got involved when my kids did 4H and FFA.
I have always looked forward to the Fair. When my
kids were here as exhibitors, we made a lot of friends that we only saw once a year, and we always looked forward to August to see them again.
Tribune: What do you like most about your work?
Beimold: I love my job. e team we have here at the Northwest Washington Fair is the best. We still have a small town feel that some other Fairs are missing.
I didn’t realize how much I would enjoy helping to plan a community event until I came to work here.
Planning all year and watching it all come together on opening day is the best.
Tribune: Tell us something special about the Northwest Washington Fair.
Beimold: It is di cult to pick a favorite day of the Fair or event at the Fair, but I always enjoy on Sunday morning watching all the people stream in during our free entry time.
I love that we are able to get people in the gates at no cost and I always hope that they have a great time.
Lummi Nation’s Blackhawk Singers to return to NWW Fair
Dancers promote community interaction
e Lummi Nation’s Blackhawk Singers will perform at 4 p.m. ursday, Aug 14 as part of the Northwest Washington Fair’s Clock Tower Entertainment.
Among the many forms of art that have been inspired by the Native American people, dance is, perhaps, one of the most spectacular and aweinspiring of them all. To the average visitor or non-native person, Native American dances may seem like simple steps, hops and jumps, that essentially keep rhythm with the beat of the drum.
But in reality, these dances are so much more than that.
Dance is a way of expression, a language in itself. ey tell stories, and they are used as a medium for prayer and each dance has its own significant meaning in Native American culture.
Historically, dancing was a way to promote community interaction. Round dances were a way of introducing guests, tribes and clans. Other types of dances were done to celebrate events such as harvest or seasonal changes, marriages and inter-tribal meetings.
Celebrations and gatherings would last for days, with dance, feasts and storytelling.
Haytaluk understood the power of story and performance. So in the early 1900s
The Lummi Nation’s Blackhawk Singers will perform at 4 p.m. Thursday, Aug 14 as part of the Northwest Washington Fair’s Clock Tower Entertainment. (Photo courtesy Lhaq’temish foundation)
he created a dance and storytelling group that took performances on the road. This enabled them to share their language, songs and dances with the newcomers.
He named it e Children of the Setting Sun. eir stories and dances reached people all through the Northwest.
It was a positive way to remind them who the Lummi people were and what they
stood for: to invite unity.
More information at lhaqtemishfoundation.org.
In addition to the Blackhawk Singers, discover entertaining performances in the heart of the Fair. Each day at 4 p.m. the Clock Tower will become a lively hub of entertainment as performances will o er something di erent daily, from dance to music, magic shows, and more.
Performances Aug. 7-16 will begin at 4 p.m. at the Clock Tower. Also on schedule are magician Sterling Dietz on Aug. 7, Aug. 10 and Aug. 15; a Live Elvis Tribute on Aug. 8 and Aug. 13, a military tribute on Aug. 12 and Rainbow Square Dancers on Aug. 16.
-- Information provided by Lhaq’temish foundation at lhaqtemishfoundation.org
Rascal Rodeo
An inclusive experience that empowers all ages
A nonprofit organization dedicated to providing the full rodeo experience for individuals with special needs, this year’s Rascal Rodeo celebrates 15 years at the Northwest Washington Fairgrounds in Lynden. (Courtesy photos)
By Merrick Parnell
Celebrating 15 years, Rascal Rodeo will return to the Northwest Washington Fairgrounds in Lynden for one of its largest annual events.
A nonpro t dedicated to providing the full rodeo experience for individuals with special needs, this year’s Rascal Rodeo will be from 10-11 a.m. Aug. 12 with check-in beginning at 9 a.m. for volunteers and shortly after for participants. Admission is free for all registered volunteers and participants and includes entry to the fair.
With an expected turnout of 130 to 150 participants, Rascal Rodeo organizer and founder Ann-Erica Whitemarsh said the Lynden event has become a cherished tradition over the past decade.
“Some of these kids come in now like they own the place,” Whitemarsh said. “ ey’ve grown up with Rascal Rodeo.”
Rascal Rodeo produces adaptive rodeos for those with intellectual and developmental disabilities of all ages throughout
several states. Selena Burgess of the Northwest Washington Fair said Rascal Rodeo has been part of the Lynden PRCA Rodeo for many years.
“When the rodeo became part of the fair, Rascal Rodeo came along with it and has remained a highlight ever since,” Burgess said. “ e feedback has been overwhelmingly positive — from participants, families, volunteers and spectators. It’s an uplifting event that re ects the spirit of inclusion and celebrates everyone who is involved.”
Founded as Whitemarsh’s high school senior project in 2001, Rascal Rodeo is now the only organization of its kind in the United States, providing fully accessible, rodeo-style experiences for people of all ages with disabilities.
“ ere’s no other group in the U.S. that travels and puts on rodeo-style events for all ages with disabilities,” Whitemarsh said. “Disabilities don’t go away at 18, so neither should the opportunities.”
Rascal Rodeo: An inclusive experience
Continued from 73
Participants receive a full rodeo makeover — including a cowboy hat, bandanna, sheri badge and T-shirt — before entering an arena lled with interactive stations. Events include stick-horse barrel racing, bull (barrel) riding, steer roping, cow milking with plywood cows, and actual horse and pony rides provided by local volunteers.
“All of our participants will have the opportunity to get on the back of a horse,” she said.
“What sets Rascal Rodeo apart is its mission: it gives people with special needs the opportunity to be real cowboys and cowgirls, often for the rst time,” Burgess said. “ e event is adapted to en-
sure safety and fun, while still giving participants hands-on experiences — like roping, riding and interacting with animals. It’s not just a rodeo; it’s a celebration of community, kindness and shared joy.”
Unique experiences, lasting impact
Beyond the arena games, Rascal Rodeo offers something many wouldn’t expect: dirt toys.
“Some of our participants have never even touched dirt before,” Whitemarsh said.
Her son, after traveling with her to events, noticed how much some children simply enjoyed being in the dirt. Rascal Rodeo responded by adding toy trucks, plastic farm animals and other tactile
play items to a dirt play area.
“We throw Honda trucks and farm figurines in the dirt, and some kids will sit or lie down to play — it’s a sensory experience they’ve never had,” she said.
The emotional impact of the event can be profound — not only for participants and families but for spectators and volunteers as well.
“You might start getting what we call sweaty eyeballs watching someone get lifted from their wheelchair onto a horse,” Whitemarsh said. “Some parents tell us they hadn’t seen their child smile in months — until this.”
In some cases, a participant’s rst spoken word might even happen at a Rascal Rodeo.
“It’s a very simple concept with a miraculous outcome,” she said.
Giving back and growing forward
Rascal Rodeo thrives on community support, particularly from volunteers of all ages.
No prior horse experience is required unless someone is bringing a horse.
Even children can volunteer by helping with stations like cow painting, stick-horse racing and dirt play. e organization also operates the “Don’t Fence Me In” youth volunteer grant, open to former volunteers ages 17-23 who have completed high school or earned a GED.
with one of our
Mocha Milkshakes, Cool Coffee Creams, “Twisted Sister” Blended Red Bull, Cake Batter Milkshakes and so much more!
Admission to Rascal Rodeo is free for all registered volunteers and participants and includes entry to the fair.
(Courtesy photo)
e grant provides unrestricted funds to be used for education, tools, certi cations or other needs.
“Last year, one recipient used it for taxi-
dermy school, another for an ultrasound machine to get certified in arti cial insemination,” Whitemarsh said. “It’s our way to give back to the youth who
have helped us and to encourage others to get involved.”
Registration for volunteers and participants is free and available on the Rascal Rodeo website.
Volunteers receive a T-shirt and fair admission.
Participants receive souvenirs and take part in a memorable farewell tradition: selecting a donated rodeo belt buckle to take home.
“We’re always looking for donated belt buckles — just no whiskey logos,” Whitemarsh said with a laugh.
Burgess encouraged fairgoers to include Rascal Rodeo in their visit.
“If you’re considering attending Rascal Rodeo, we promise it will be one of the most inspiring and memorable parts of your fair experience,” she said. “You’ll see smiles, laughter and pure joy as participants take center stage and shine. Whether you’re there to volunteer or simply to cheer from the stands, you’ll walk away reminded of what really matters — support and community.”
She added that there’s plenty to do before and after the event.
“There’s so much to enjoy after attending the Rascal Rodeo,” Burgess said. “Explore animal barns, visit 4-H
and FFA exhibits, and enjoy delicious fair food. You could spend some time on the carnival rides, shop with fair vendors, explore our still life exhibits or attend an evening rodeo performance in the grandstand.”
Whether a firsttime visitor, returning volunteer or longtime participant, Rascal Rodeo in Lynden offers a heartfelt experience built on joy, connection and inclusion.
“It’s more than just being cowboys and cowgirls,” Whitemarsh said. “It’s about joy, inclusion and making lifelong memories — for everyone involved.”
This year’s Northwest Washington Fair is Aug. 7-16.
Biggest and best events this side of Whatcom County
Washington Fair isn’t all fun and games. It’s a competitive space for many as well. (Tri-
The Northwest
bune file photo)
Fair features many competitive categories
Flowers are found in a whole other department, with divisions covering everything from perennials and annuals to lilies and dahlias. (Tribune file photo)
By Racquel Muncy
LYNDEN — The Northwest Washington Fair isn’t all fun and games. It’s a competitive space for many as well.
e FFA and 4-H events always bring in strong competition, but there is also plenty of opportunity within the open class for people to show o their talents with their hobbies and passions.
The open class categories include: agriculture, art, baking and canning, hobbies and collections, models. Legos and K’nex, textile arts and quilting, photography, sewing, owers, and grange.
e agriculture class includes everything from root vegetables, beans and herbs to sun owers, honey and apples.
Flowers are found in a whole other department, with divisions covering everything from perennials and annuals to lilies and dahlias.
e art class encourages those of all ages within the community to display their artwork.
Original paintings and drawings completed in the past two years that have not been previously shown are welcome and all entries must be suitably framed and each exhibitor may submit two entries.
Mediums include oil, acrylic, watercolor, pencil, charcoal, pastel, mixed mediums, digital art and other.
Canned crops from 2024 or 2025 can be shown off in the open baking and canned competition. is group includes canned fruit and berries, pie lling, jellies, jams, butters and juices, vegetables and many others.
Bakers are able to show o with special decorated cakes, pies, cookies and many others.
Hobbies have an important value in
See Biggest on 78
Biggest: And best events this side of Whatcom
Continued
aiding education and art and the open hobbies and collections class seeks to show that.
Each year looks di erent as the superintendent of the class is able to limit the size of the entries and entries that have been shown before must show the progress that has been made.
Similarly, models, Legos and K’nex entries must not have been shown in previous years.
e open textile arts and quilting category show off the handiwork of participants while the photography category encourages the artful eye of the community.
All photos must be printed on photographic paper and not be encased in a frame or glass. All entries must be family friendly.
More handiwork can be found in the open sewing class, where entries must be new and never worn unless coming from recycled garment.
Last but not least is the Grange Department. ese displays typically feature a variety of items covering
Biggest: And best events this side of Whatcom
Continued from 78
a wide range of possibilities.
These displays are graded on theme, design, attractiveness, color, balance, and appeal.
Best of Show ribbons go out to the exhibitor who won the most blue ribbons.
Other special awards for many of the open classes will include a Viewer’s Choice Rosette at the end of each day of fair, a Judges Choice Rosette and Superintendents Choice Rosette. Most classes are divided into age groups: seniors (age 60-plus), adults (age 19-59), teen (age 15-18), junior (age 10-14 and youth (9 and under).
Professionals also have their own division. e Northwest Washington Fair runs from Aug. 7-16 and the entries will be found in the Farm Pavilion and Phillips 66 Building.
More information on the open class entries can be found at nwwafair.com/p/ fair-and-rodeo/exhibitors-guide/openclass-departments
Encuentra los recursos y la información que necesitas. Conéctate con los servicios humanos, de
Best of Show ribbons go out to the exhibitor who won the most blue ribbons. (Tribune file photo)
Lynden schools dish up fair food
LYNDEN — More than three dozen booths will be out at this year’s Northwest Washington Fair to o er food and fair enthusiasts sustenance, sweets, drinks and other epicurean treats.
ree of those booths will be run by Lynden schools. A fourth will be run by a youth support group.
First established in 1976, the Lynden PTA booth is fast approaching 50 years of food service at the Northwest Washington Fair. at’s a long time. But it’s not the oldest representation of a Lynden school selling and serving fair food.
Sine the 1960s, Lynden Christian has had a food booth at the NWW Fair.
Much of the time, various LC community groups have sta ed it.
According to Jay Allen, director of development at Lynden Christian School, approximately 190 volunteers will serve during this year’s fair at the Lyncs Athletic Booster Club booth.
e booth will be sta ed by members of the school’s athletic teams, cheerleading teams and volunteers, which means 90 students, 90 parents (and/or) coaches and 10 supervisors who take turns overseeing four- to six-hour shifts.
The LC food booth will be open nine of the fair’s 10 days, as it will be closed on Sunday, Aug. 10. Hamburgers, cheeseburgers and what Allen called the “best curly fries at the fair,” will be available, as well as grilled cheese sandwiches, corn dogs and hot dogs, ice cream bars, milk, bottled water and soft drinks.
Booth proceeds help cover the costs and expenses of LC’s athletic and cheerleading
The LC food booth will be open nine of the fair’s 10 days, as it will be closed on Sunday, Aug. 10. (Tribune file photo)
teams and other athletic department costs.
Also in Lynden, Cornerstone Christian School will again have its food booth at the annual fair.
Named Cornerstone Café, the booth will be in the Blue Ribbon Kitchen, located near the horse barns and southwest of the grandstands.
Stephanie Bareman, a teacher at Cornerstone Christian School, said Cornerstone Café will serve a rodeo beef burger, blue ribbon chicken burger, chicken strips and fries basket, nachos, as well as two versions of macaroni and cheese: a kids version (plain) and a cowboy version (dressed with bacon and haystack onions).
New this year, Cornerstone Café will o er a few combinations: buckaroo burger basket (giddy-up cheese burger and
Food: Lynden, LC, Cornerstone to have booths at this year’s fair
Continued from 83
fries), a sweet-water break (Australian iced co ee paired with two fresh baked cookies), a camp re classic (hot co ee and a gooey cinnamon bun) and the ranch hand snack pack, which is cheesy nachos with a fountain soda.
Mount Baker Council serves young people and volunteers in Whatcom, Skagit, Island, Snohomish and San Juan counties. Both Mount Baker and LC booths will be located at this year’s fair in the WECU Expo Building. Cornerstone Café will be near the Salish Wealth Management Horse Barn, the Lynden PTA Booth will be in the clocktower area.
Also nd plenty of food choices in the Gate 2 area, Grandstand Area, near the Banner Bank Festival Stage, near the Henry Jansen Ag Center, south of Peoples Bank Farm Pavilion, and the south side of Phillips 66 Center.
More than three dozen booths will be out at this year’s Northwest Washington Fair, Aug. 7-16, to o er food and fair enthusiasts sustenance, sweets, drinks and other epicurean treats. One booth will be run by Lynden High School’s PTA, another by Lynden Christian, a third by Cornerstone Christian School. (Courtesy photos)
*Vendor List Subject to Change
Clocktower Area
Feast
Galley To Go LLC
Lynden PTA
Rock’s Concessions – Boba Tea
Young Life
Gate 2 Area
Absolutely Nuts! LLC
Grandstand Area
A Roasted Development
Dairy Women II Moo-Shed
DH Concessions LLC DBA Lemons on the Loose
Fiesta Time Foods – Uncle Bill’s
Corndog Shack
Gold Buckle Espresso
JJ & Sons Concessions – BBQ
Kona Shaved Ice – N. Whatcom Co.
La Polina LLC Crepes
Little Caesar’s Pizza
Mt. Baker Toppers
RTI Inc., DBA Ray’s Teriyaki
Stizzy Works LLC – Flaco’s
Sweet Art, LLC
e Ramblin’ Gourmet
Near Banner Bank Festival
Stage Revival Co ee Co.
Near Henry Jansen Ag Center
Lindsay’s Crazy for Kettle Corn
Lynden Dutch Bakery – Po ertjes
Shishkaberry
Near the Salish Wealth
Management Health Barn
Cornerstone Christian School
South of Peoples Bank
Farm Pavilion
Antojos Mexico Inc.
JJ & Sons Concessions – Lemonade
ST Concessions LLC – Chicken Ranch
ST Concessions LLC – Pretzels
ST Concessions LLC – Spam
Sugar ‘n’ Spice Mini Donuts
South of Phillips 66 Center
Funnel Cakes West
Pinas Coladas Acapulco Style LLC
Edaleen Dairy
South Side of Phillips 66 Center
Dairy Women
WECU Expo Building
Creativitin
El Ranchito
Lyncs Athletic Booster Club
Mount Baker Council
Paleteria la Flor de Michoacan
Don’t miss out on these great food deals!!
At this year’s fair there’s plenty of vendors o ering specials at $10 or less that will put a smile on your face as well as on your wallet. (Tribune file photo)
A Roasted Development
• Two churros for $6
• Roasted corn-on-the-cob for $7
• Elote Loco for $9
Boy Scouts: Doghouse
• Corn dog meal with fries and drink for $10
• Kids hot dog meal with fries and drink for $10
Chicken Ranch
• Chicken tender, fries and drink for $9.99
Cornerstone
• Buckaroo Burger Basket: cheeseburger and fries for $10
• Sweet-water Break: Australian iced co ee and two fresh baked cookies for $7
• Camp re Classic: Hot co ee and cinnamon bun for $6
• Ranch Hand Snack Pack: Cheesy nachos and 24-ounce fountain drink for $9.50
Dairy Women
• Moowich and milk for $9
Feast
• Seasoned wa e fries for under $10
Flaco’s
• One taco with rice and beans, and 16-ounce drink for $10
Galley to Go
• One piece of sh and fries for $10
Little Caesar’s
• Slice of pizza and soda for $7.49
Lynden Dutch Bakery
• One boat of po ertjes for $10
Lynden PTA
• Kids meal: hot dog, small fries and soda or milk for $10
Piggly’s BBQ
• Burger, fries and drink for $9.99
Ray’s Teriyaki
• Yakisoba noodle/fried rice with lightbulbs bubble tea for $10
Sugar ‘n’ Spice
• Mini sized donuts for $10
Young Life
• Hot dog with drink for $9
• Kids meal: grilled cheese sandwich or hot dog, chips, drink and Oreos for $10
