By Don Lowe
More than eight decades after it first began, the Lamar (Missouri) Free Fair is still as big a deal as it ever was. That’s especially true with the Moore family, considering how long they’ve worked so closely with this event.
As the 81st version of this annual tradition gets under way, Ed Moore says, “The Fair was started by our dad, Bud Moore, and he did it for 25 years. He (Bud) died in April of 1968. My brother, Terry, and I were asked to keep it going, and we have been doing that for all these years. It was started to bring people together and to show off industries.”
As far as one of the feature attractions, Moore says, “The carnival we have is Tom Evans United Shows out of Plattsburg, Missouri. They have been with us for more than 25 years and provide a great show. They bring many kiddie rides and large rides as well.
“The price for armbands is $20 in advance until Wednesday the week of the Fair. After that, you can buy armbands on the midway and the price will be $25. The prices are for one armband each night. Hours are 6 p.m. to 11 p.m. from Wednesday through Friday. On Saturday, the hours are noon to 5 p.m. and 6 p.m. to 11:30 p.m.
“We have local food vendors with organizations like the Rotary Club and Lions Club, and several area schools. Lots of other vendors bring all sorts of crafts, share information on products and services they provide and many different other things.
“The Lamar Police Department also sets up a booth every year. The Ambulance District is on hand as well in case there are any injuries, and a lot of people running for public offices will have their booths.”
In sharing insight on the original structure of this social gathering, Moore explains, “We advertise it to be the largest Free Fair in Missouri. There is not an admission charge. There’s no charge for parking.
“And the entertainment is normally no cost either, except for this year since we are featuring country music superstar Clay Walker, who is going to perform at the Fair on Saturday night in the Wyatt Earp Pavilion. General admission tickets will be $25 in advance and $30 the day of the show.”
While the Moore brothers are heavily involved, Moore notes, “It takes a lot of volunteers to make this happen. The City of Lamar, the Barton County Chamber of Commerce, area banks and lots of individuals help make our Fair successful.
“My brother and I take pride in being part of this. It takes so many people that give up their time to help make this event happen. When the Fair is over for the year, you start planning for the next Fair and you think, ‘Wow, what a great event for the town and people.’”
81st Annual Lamar Free Fair Fast Facts
When: Friday, Aug. 16-Saturday, Aug. 24. Carnival and booths open Wednesday, Aug. 21-Saturday, Aug. 24.
Location: Constitution Square, downtown Lamar, Missouri
Lamar Fair Tickets: Advance tickets can be purchased at https://sgeventsllc.ticketspice.com/2024-lamar-fair-. Tickets are only $20 each when purchased in advance.
Activities: Includes a carnival, vendors of all kinds, queen contest, community and civic group booths, favorite carnival foods, youth livestock show, art show, blue ribbon contests, parades and family fun for all ages.
Contact Information: Becky Costley at 417.850.2033 or [email protected].