Katelyn Rambow knows her way around the Carver County fairgrounds in Waconia. She’s been taking part in the fair as long as she can remember.

Whether it’s showing her champion sheep that her family raises on their Gotha hobby farm; checking out the diaper derby or pig races during the fair; or working this summer getting ready for the 2008 fair, Rambow is well versed in all things related to the annual county get-together.

The Carver County Fair will run through Aug. 10 at the fairgrounds and features something for all ages and interests, Rambow said during a recent visit.

There’s great family entertainment during the day and lots going on, especially for the younger generation, at night, she said.

Rambow, who will be working during the fair as well as showing her Suffolk sheep, said she enjoys showing her animals to those who visit the animal barns during the fair.

She said she’s heard lots of interesting questions from sheep barn visitors during the years, including one of the most popular ones: ‘Why are the sheep wearing blankets?’

The correct answer? Just to keep clean.

Mike Jensen, manager of the Carver County Fair, hopes people flock to the fair this weekend, whether it is to see the animals or enjoy the wide range of activities.

“We’re close by and easy to get to,” said Jensen, who has been managing the fair since 2004. “A trip to the state fair can be quite an undertaking. We offer a smaller, easier-to-get-to, cheaper alternative.”

Jensen also has a farming background and knows his way around the animal barns. He has a 2-year-old child and he’s looking for ways to expose him, and other children, to agriculture.

“We’re trying to find ways to get experiences,” he said. “Bringing children to the fair will help get them connected to real-life experiences.”

In addition to the 4H and open class animal exhibitions, this year’s fair will feature popular returning events such as the baby diaper derby, pig races and music and grandstand events. Extreme bull riding has been added to the slate of grandstand events that includes motokazie supercross, the truck and tractor pull, and the popular demolition derbies on Saturday and Sunday.

Christy Love, former lead singer for the group Boogie Wonderland has been added to the musical lineup.

Another new daily feature this year will be the Kachunga Alligator Show.

Jensen said the county fair draws close to 90,000 people each year and in the past has drawn heavily from western Carver County.

He said with families staying closer to home this summer he’s hoping more families from Chaska and Chanhassen will venture out to the fair this year.

Carver County Fair dates: Aug. 6-10

Directions: From the west: take Highway 5 into Waconia; turn right on Olive Street; turn left on Third Street West; end at 501 West Third Street, Waconia.

Cost at the gate: Ages 9 and up, $5. 8 and under free.

For a complete listing of events visit www.carvercountyfair.com.