HEPPNER — The Morrow County Fair provides a gathering place to celebrate the talents and hard work of the residents living in its communities.

With the theme, “Admiration for Generations,” the fair is Aug. 14-17 (opens at 9 a.m.; 11 a.m. on Saturday) at the Morrow County Fairgrounds, 74473 Highway 74. Gate admission is free.

Although there isn’t a glitzy midway, the fair creates a sense of community while preserving and promoting the county’s rich traditions. Daily activities highlight 4-H and FFA projects. Also, open class exhibits display the talents of area residents of all ages, and there is plenty of fun throughout the week.

Wednesday evening includes the Public Style Revue, with participants showing off their handiwork from 5-7 p.m. The fair appreciation dinner features a tri-tip meal ($15) and music by fiddler Michelle Lambert.

The always popular ice cream social is Thursday from 2:30-4 p.m. with Lambert providing entertainment. Also, back by popular demand is Murray’s Beer & Wine Tasting from 6-10:30 p.m. A “starter pack” is $10 for one glass and two drink tickets; additional drinks are $5. Dinner by Taste of the South costs $25; purchase tickets at Murray’s in downtown Heppner.

Entertainment features Musically Unstable, the Joe Lindsay Band and Caitlyn Ochsner. With limited seating, people are encouraged to bring lawn chairs.

A comedy hypnotist show with Dr. Jon will bring laughter on Wednesday at 4 p.m. and Thursday/Friday, 5:30 p.m. Also, Wednesday through Saturday, from 1-4 p.m. is the Little Rascals Kidz Club with carnival games and prizes, The Butterfly Encounter, an educational and interactive exhibit for all ages; and Bright Heart Circus featuring stilt walkers, Hula Hoops and face painting. Youths can kick up their heels Friday from 8-10 p.m. during a teen dance.

The fair parade is Saturday at 10 a.m. in downtown Heppner. And to applaud the efforts of area youths, attend the FFA awards program at 1:15 p.m. in Wilkinson Arena. The Youth Livestock Auction follows at 2 p.m.

For more about the fair, visit www.co.morrow.or.us/fair or call 541-676-9474.

Oregon Trail Pro Rodeo

In its 102nd year, the rodeo is Friday and Saturday at 7 p.m. In addition to the PRCA events, there is open mutton bustin’ and a cowhide race, and novice bareback, saddle bronc and bull riding.

Rodeo tickets are $10 general, $6 ages 7-12 and free for ages 6 and under. For tickets and more information, visit www.oregontrailprorodeo.com.

After the rodeo, Dan Burns 3D Productions will crank up the tunes with lights and fog in the Spur ‘Em Barn. People can dance into the night, even if they don’t attend the rodeo.

The Morrow County Jackpot Rodeo is Sunday at 1 p.m. Participation is open to county residents, their immediate family members and alumni. Tickets are $6 for adults, $3/ages 7-12 and free/ages 6 and under.