MYRTLE BEACH, S.C. (WBTW)- The Horry County Fair started Friday and will run for 10 days at its new location at the Myrtle Beach Speedway on Highway 501 beside Tanger Outlets.
Speedway officials started plans to host the Horry County Fair in 2015 but delayed it due to permitting issues. The venue needed a longer permit to ensure the rides could be installed and all inspections passed.
Myrtle Beach Speedway General Manager Steve Zacharias said they got everything sorted out with county officials in February and have worked nonstop to get acts lined up.
“Everybody in town is so excited to be here and to come out and I think it’s because once you get inside the fence and you get to be in the fair you get to be a kid again,” Zacharias said.
With over 30 rides there’s thrills for everyone. Rides include Haunted Mansion, Zero Gravity, Zipper, and Rock Star for the thrill seekers. Plus a Merry Go Round, Wacky Worm Coaster and Dalton Tractors to name a few for the little riders. Strates Shows not only provides ride but games of skill, tasty foods and merchandise concessions as part of the fair.
It’s something that’s attracted many families who want to share the experience with their kids.
“I think it’s great. Especially with my daughter, her age. It’ll give us something to look forward to every year. Something to build a tradition with her and memories,” Jennifer Owens said.
“She’ll remember it for a long time. She’ll enjoy it, it’s her first actual fair so she’s having fun,” Matt Weaver said.
Zacharias says he wants events like the fair to establish the Myrtle Beach Speedway as a venue for more than races.
“Well I think it puts our foot on the ground. I think this creates that base I’ve been looking for. We’ve always said we want to be an entertainment complex not just a racetrack. We grew up racing and I love racing but we’ve got 48 acres that needs to be utilized and when you get here for the fair you’ll realize we can’t utilize any more of it. We’re full at this point,” Zacharias said.
Unlimited Ride Wristbands most days will cost $25. Monday April 18th and Tuesday April 19th Unlimited Ride Wristbands will be on sale for only $10. Plus there’s plenty of FREE fun including the Robinson’s Racing Pigs, the Petting Zoo and live entertainment on the Free Entertainment Stage.
The Horry County Fair will run from April 15th-24th. Officials say the Speedway has 1700 spaces and Tanger Outlets is permitting parking for the overflow.
For more information go to http://www.HorryCountyFair.com