By Tammy Malgesini

Go! Magazine

HERMISTON — From main stage acts to sideshow performers, entertainment opportunities are plentiful during the Umatilla County Fair. The event is Aug. 11-14 at the Eastern Oregon Trade and Event Center in Hermiston.

Kicking off the nightly entertainment is Stone in Love — Journey Tribute on Wednesday, Aug. 11, at 9 p.m. All seats are free with fair admission, which is $11. One of the Pacific Northwest’s hottest tribute acts, the Portland-based group plays all the songs Journey fans have come to love.

Other main stage acts are Everclear (Thursday, Aug. 12, at 9 p.m.), an alt-rock band formed in 1991 in Portland; a Latino Night Dance (Friday, Aug. 13, from 8 p.m. to 1 a.m.) featuring Fortaleza De Tierra Caliente, Alfa 7, Diana Reyes and Tierra Cali; and Frankie Ballard (Saturday, Aug. 14, at 9 p.m.), a country-blues-rocker with hot country singles such as “Sunshine & Whiskey,” “Helluva Life” and “Young & Crazy.” Also, a DJ and dancing is available before and after the concerts at the Barley Barn, near the concert entrance.

General admission for the Everclear and Frankie Ballard concerts are free with fair admission. Reserved and premium seating (first five rows) are available for $12 and $20, respectively. Advance tickets, which do not include fair admission, are available via www.umatillacountyfair.net.

Tickets for Friday evening’s Latino Night that are purchased in advance at Velasco Used Car Sales (80596 Highway 395, Hermiston) are $30 and include fair admission. Tickets purchased at the gate do not include fair admission.

“We’re excited to offer a variety of performers on the main stage,” said Angie McNalley, fair director.

In addition, McNalley said the fair’s side entertainment will have a little something for everyone. She said it’s sometimes a juggling act bringing back fan favorites and finding new acts to wow the crowds.

Fairgoers, McNalley said, won’t want to miss Ride Hard Entertainment. In addition to daily mutton bustin’ shows, people can sidle up to roping dummies and a mechanical bull to show off their skills, and pose for photos with the Legendary Longhorns.

Throughout the day, several variety shows take place, including Leapin’ Louie, who will dazzle the crowd with world-class lasso tricks and more; Jeremiah Johnston, who holds two medals in the juggling world championships; Hart Keene, whose magic and comedy act features mentalism and illusion; and Mz. Pearl, who has been referred to as a “one-woman comedy circus act.”

McNalley said the fun isn’t always contained within the stage area. Don’t be surprised to run into fair entertainers strolling the grounds.

“If you are walking along or look bored, Mz. Pearl with her red nose might jump out and interact with you,” McNalley said with a laugh.

Also, McNalley said there are a variety of vendors that add to the fair experience. She encouraged people to stroll the midway and beyond to take in activities like knockerball, laser tag, virtual reality and more.

“We have lots of other attractions,” she said.