Time to enter work at NISF

If you can make it, bake it, grow it, or show it, there’s probably a competition for you at the upcoming North Idaho State Fair.

More than 2,000 competitive exhibits, classes and special contests are now open for entries.

The 2016 fair, “A World of Fun!” runs Aug. 24-28, and will showcase entertainment and attractions from 11 different countries. The fair is also the host of the Gem State Stampede — two evenings and one matinee performance of sold-out PRCA rodeo action.

Exhibition categories in this year’s fair include Horticulture, Home Arts, Culinary Arts, and Arts & Photography. There are also Creative Youth and Livestock categories for participants 17 and younger. In addition to time-honored categories — like baking, quilting, fruits, and vegetables — newer categories like jewelry making, homemade spirits, literary art, and gluten-free baking have been added to appeal to community members of all ages and hobby interests. Cash awards are given for all classes, and some special prizes are also awarded in some of the categories.

“There’s truly a category for everyone, and just about everything at the fair,” said Alexcia Jordan, assistant general manager.

“With the fair’s expansion this year to participants from the northern 10 counties in Idaho, we’re particularly excited to see and share everyone’s submissions.”

In addition to competitive exhibits, the fair will also feature special Community Contests each day. These contests include the Mayor’s Chocolate Extravaganza, Instagram Scavenger Hunt, Beard Growing Contest, Diaper Derby, and others.

A full listing of exhibit categories and community contests is available on the fair’s website, www.NorthIdahoStateFair.com, along with rules and online entry forms. Copies of the 2016 Exhibitor Handbook are also available at the Kootenai County Fairgrounds office.