We are talking about local and county fairs this weekend on In Focus. Marisa Jacques, filling in for JoDee Kenney, sat down with Herkimer County Fair Treasurer Bonnie Cool to find out more about what goes into putting on this annual event. Running from Aug. 13 – 18, the theme of this year’s fair is “Saddle up and Come on down to the Fair," and since the first fair in 1841, Cool said it’s provided a way to celebrate the county’s agricultural contributions. And, like that first fair, Cool said visitors will have the chance to see all sorts of animals and crafts on display. The fair also hosts a sensory center and holds a sensory day, that Cool said makes for a more enjoyable experience for all fairgoers. Throughout the year, the fairgrounds are still active, with Cool highlighting the various yard sales and conventions held each year. Cool said the fair is also investing in its future, recently installing solar lights and new bleachers.

The Herkimer County Fair will be held at the Fairgrounds on Cemetery Street in Frankfort.

For a full schedule and information on tickets, head to herkimercountyfair.org.

You can watch the full interview with Bonnie Cool in the video player above. And be sure to tune in for a look inside the biggest issues impacting upstate New York on In Focus with JoDee Kenney — every Sunday on Spectrum News 1.