COALTON — It’s going to be a good week for a fair.

With a steamy forecast scheduled, the Boyd County Fair begins its five-day run tonight.

“A lot of people have put a lot of work and effort bringing this fair off,” said John McGlone, who is on the fair board as vice president. “Last year, it was named one of the top progressive fairs in the state.”

The theme is “Watch Us Grow,” which is exactly what the Boyd County Fair has done since it was restarted in 1991.

“We went from having it in the field to a parking lot at the mall to what we have now,” McGlone said. “Six years ago my son showed livestock in a tent. Our livestock shown has grown so much we have two days instead of one. It’s a good thing to have that many additional kids involved.”

For the second year in a row, the Boyd County Fair is partnering with River Cities Harvest on a project to get food to those who need it most.

The fair, along with the Boyd County Extension Office, has invited River Cities Harvest to the annual livestock auction on Thursday. Immediately after the 7 p.m. show, River Cities Harvest will be accepting donations of the animals purchased.

“You’re supporting the 4-H livestock club but also supporting River Cities,” McGlone said. “Organizations we donate to don’t often get a chance to have good-quality, fresh meat at a low cost.”

Last year, the organization received 600 to 800 pounds of meat from the livestock sale.

“That was pretty good for the first year,” McGlone said. “It was not on anyone’s radar. We’re trying to get the word out this year.”

There are about 60 animals registered for the livestock show and auction.

The fair will have the usual activities — carnival rides, petting zoo, 4-H booths, craft booths and food vendors. There’s also plenty of entertainment scheduled, including a gospel talent singing contest tonight. There’s a $50 entry fee with a 100 percent payback.

Opening ceremonies are at 6 p.m. in the Building of Dreams. That will be followed by the Boyd Fair Gospel Talent Search. The four-cylinder demolition derby begins at 8 p.m. in the Pit.

Gates open at 5 p.m. Tuesday through Friday and at noon on Saturday. Gates close at 10 nightly and at midnight on Saturday.

All events are free with paid admission to the fair.

MARK MAYNARD can be reached at mmaynard@dailyindependent.com or (606) 326-2648.