From midway rides to 4-H animals to one of the top rodeos in the country, the Kitsap County Fair has something for everyone Aug. 23-27. And, there’s no better way to make the most of the last days of summer than by taking the whole family to an old-fashioned county fair.

Besides cotton candy, squealing piglets, prize-winning produce and a pie-eating contest, here are some “Hold On To Your Hat” highlights:

Big Shot Wood Carvers – These extreme power carvers led by second-generation chainsaw carver Steve Backus will show off their skills throughout the fair, then auction off their work Sunday. Expect to see eagles, bears and maybe even a Seahawks 12 tribute.

A Walk on the Wild Side – Back by popular demand, the exotic animal exhibit by an Oregon animal refuge gives visitors a chance to get a close-up view of a variety of species while also learning about responsible pet ownership. More info here.

Daryle Singletary – The traditional country music singer performs Thursday, Aug. 24, in the Cowboy Corral, immediately following the rodeo at around 8:30 p.m. The concert is included with fair admission and there’s an all-ages area for families. Singletary has collaborated with such country greats as George Jones and Merle Haggard, and is known for “I Let Her Lie,” “Too Much Fun” and “Amen Kind of Love.”

Rodeo – The action begins at 6:30 p.m. Wed., Aug. 23, with the top bull riders in the country vying for a $10,000 purse at the popular Xtreme Bulls competition. The PRCA Pro Rodeo continues at 6:30 p.m. Aug. 24-26 with eight events each evening, including bareback riding, steer wrestling, roping and barrel racing. Click here for info.

Where: 1200 Fairgrounds Road NW, Bremerton, WA

Hours: The fair is open 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. Aug. 23-26 and 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. Aug. 27. The midway opens at noon daily.

Photos provided by the Kitsap County Fair

Admission: Fair entry is $10 for adults, $7 for seniors (60+) and youth ages 6-12, and free for children ages 5 and younger. Fair and rodeo combos are $16 for adults, $13 for seniors and youth. Fair and Xtreme Bulls combos are $20 for adults and $16 for seniors and youth. Check the fair website for daily admission specials, including Hero Day, Thursday, Aug. 25, when the military and first responders get into the fair and rodeo for $5.

When you visit the Kitsap Peninsula for the fair, be sure to allow plenty of time to explore our charming small towns, family-friendly parks, wooded trails, and more than 300 miles of shoreline. Find lodging options, recreational activities and much more at VisitKitsap.com.