Exhibitors taking part in Wednesday morning’s steer showmanship competition help prepare their animals for the show arena during the 2017 Hardin County Fair.

At left, Sebastian Johnson takes the spotlight as he performs a solo as part of the song, “I Will Survive” with the Hardin Northern Marching Band Tuesday night at the annual band show of the Hardin County Fair.

Connor Bookmyer may only be one-year-old, but he knows how to have fun at the Hardin County Fair as he toddles through a colorful tunnel at the Hardin County Healthy Lifestyles obstacle course in the Community Building. Connor is the son of John and Amanda Bookmyer of Kenton.

Area veterans (left photo) prepare the American flag during the opening ceremonies of the Hardin County Fair on Tuesday, which was Veterans Day.

Hardin County Fair Board President Howard Lyle (right) presents Ray Davis with a plaque in honor Davis being named the honoree of this year’s fair. Davis was recognized for the honor after he announced his retirement from the board after 37 years of service and countless hours of volunteering.

Mike Comstock (left) presents a plaque to Paul and Nancy Rickenbacher during the opening of the band show at the grandstands during the Hardin County Fair. Comstock, who presents the annual fireworks display at the July 4th celebration at the fairgrounds honored the couple for their dedication to the event.

Wes Goldsmith and Jesse Purcell of the Hardin County Chamber and Business Alliance hold copies of the new visitors guide developed by the Alliance’s tourism division. The booklets were presented to the public at the Alliance’s booth at the Hardin County Fair on Tuesday and they feature attractions, recreation, antique and hidden gems, places to shop, places to stay and eat and key events throughout the county.

Attendance was up for opening day of the Hardin County Fair on Tuesday. The estimated total attendance was 7,437, more than 400 higher than the 7,034 estimated a year ago.

Participants in the senior division of the showmanship contest in Monday’s swine show at the Hardin County Fair take one last look before the pens open into the show arena and the judge selects a winner.

The 2017 Hardin County Fair got underway today under cloudy and cool conditions. Highlighting today’s activities is the crowning of the fair king and queen, set for 7 p.m. in the grandstand, followed by the High School Band Show.