Area residents are gearing up for another edition of the World's Greatest County Fair.

The Clay County Fair returns with another packed lineup Sept. 10-18 in Spencer. The annual event drew 277,389 visitors last year, and fair manager Jeremy Parsons is hoping 2022's edition hits an even higher mark.

"Our goal each year is to put on the best fair possible, and if the weather cooperates, we might have a chance to break an attendance record," he said. "But our focus is never on the attendance. It's always on putting on the best fair possible."

Parsons said he's excited about various layout changes and expansion of ag education efforts across the entire fairgrounds this year. He also believed the addition of the Fair to Fork Market and the Dairy Experience will be a treat for guests of all ages.

Fairgoer favorites like Becky Schlegel, the Looney Lutherans and the Holy Rocka Rollaz are back on the free stages this year. Grandstand acts include: Russell Dickerson with special guest Adam Sanders (Sept. 10); CeCe Winans with special guest Riley Clemmons (Sept. 11); The Leroy Van Dyke Country Gold Tour featuring Leroy Van Dyke, Jimmy Fortune, T.G. Sheppard, T. Graham Brown, The Malpass Brothers and Mandy Barnett (Sept. 12); Lucas Oil ASCS and Tri-State Late Models (Sept. 13); IMCA Blue Ribbon Showdown (Sept. 14); Vanilla Ice with special guest Ying Yang Twins (Sept. 15); Dwight Yoakam with special guest Runaway June (Sept. 16); Grand Funk Railroad and Blue Oyster Cult (Sept. 17); and the Outlaw Truck and Tractor Pull (Sept. 18).

2022's fair is the second since the pandemic shutdown of 2020. While the 2021 fair was still held under the shadow of COVID-19, Parson said the dust has seemingly settled.

"This time of year feels much more normal when it comes to fair planning," he said. "I think we are more focused on fairgoer safety and health than ever before."

Parsons said he's looking forward to seeing guests pack the midway, grandstands and show arenas for another great fair. Sometimes, though, he has to remind himself to pause and take in the moment.

"It's the most humbling part of my job, knowing I am responsible for putting together an event that families will attend and make life long memories," he said.