This event in particular emphasizes a philosophy of the fair association, said Day.
"The fair is founded on answering the question, 'What can we do to make sure people have fun and develop team spirit?' " he said. "Anybody can be a participant and not just an observer in many cases."
The first archery tournament is slated for today at 1 p.m., another new component relying on a very old sport.
A new event with the longest title at the fair is surely "Healthy Howard's Help Yourself to a Healthy Home," which will take place Monday. County extension coordinator Christine Lothen-Kline said instruction on multiple topics will be discussed by multiple sources, including representatives of the Green Building Institute.
Given the inundation of media warnings to thoroughly wash hands to help reduce the spread of swine flu, there may be a stampede to try out a hand-washing station with a fluorescent twist.
Participants apply a gel that causes germs to glow when their hands are placed under a black light. After washing, hands are repositioned under the light to see if there are traces of glowing germs remaining.
"Ninety-five percent of the time, there are still germs that weren't washed away, especially around the fingernails," said Lothen-Kline. "It's a real eye-opener."
This Saturday, the county's Office on Environmental Sustainability will host Live Green Howard County, which will focus on issues that can reduce the county's carbon footprint, she said.
A returning act that draws interest each year is master of the chain saw Mark Tyoe, an out-of-state artist who travels the fair circuit creating wood sculptures.
"He makes a lot of things - animals, American flags - but bears are his specialty and he's really very good," said Day. Tyoe appears four times a day on each day of the fair and his carvings will be auctioned for as much as $200 apiece Saturday. The proceeds are donated to the fair association's scholarship fund.
An annual crowd-pleaser that returns Thursday night is the talent show, which "just becomes larger and larger each year, thanks to popular TV programs like 'American Idol,' " said the association head.
And of course, "the biggest thing the fair promotes" is the importance of supporting farmers by purchasing fresh produce, said Day. And it only makes sense to buy local, he added, given reports in the news of various tainted foods.
"Fortunately, it's been a great growing season, and we're anticipating an increase in crops," he said.
"But it is most definitely very satisfying to hear people talk about wanting to eat foods grown close to home," Day said.
For a complete fair schedule, directions and other information, go to howardcountyfair.org.
