As anxious entrants checked in exhibits with hopes of coming away with purple or blue ribbons, the Haywood County Fairgrounds was slowly being transformed from open spaces and buildings to one chock-full of booths, carnival rides and food venues.

Joe Sam Queen, who is coordinating the entertainment for this year's county fair, promised five must-see concerts from Wednesday to Sunday, starting at 5 p.m. each night and at 1 p.m. Sunday.

"Saturday night will be a real wing-ding hoedown," Queen said.

This year's fair, which is being underwritten by Farm Bureau, promises to be bigger and better than ever.

"It's been a great year in the garden. This has been a great growing season in Western North Carolina," Queen said.

New this year will be demonstrations by the Haywood Community College Timber ...