Fairly Good Way to Start the Weekend

There is a simple reason you will not see your Patch editor at the Somerset County 4-H Fair.

It's that I love animals.

This may sound contradictory, since the fair is all about animals, animal care and agriculture. In fact, dog shows, livestock shows and more are part of each day's activities.

The problem is that animal shows often mean animal rescues and I have a MAJOR soft spot for dogs and cats. And hamsters. And guinea pigs. And have been known to walk into adoption anything and walk out with a new furry buddy, or, at the very least, with a lighter bank account from the donation I just made.

Here's what you need to know today:

1. You Need to Know to Hit the Fair: In addition to dog, livestock and horse shows, there will be magic, go karts, rockets and more. Fair entry is free, and meals and snacks are available on-site.
2. You Need to Know It’s an Afternoon with a Naturalist: at Lord Stirling Park’s Environmental Education Center. A program for children ages seven to nine begins at 1 p.m. today. . Call 908-766-2489 to register.
3. You Need to Know it’s a Night Out: for parents! hosts beginning at 5:30 p.m., where parents can drop off their children and enjoy a quite night out. The night is $25, and snacks, pizza, drinks and movies will be provided. Call 908-428-8515 for more information.
4. You Need to Know You’re a Rock Star: Children at Art Camp present The performance is for children two and older, is free, and is approximately 20 minutes long.
5. You Need to Know About Yard Sales: hosts a .