LAKE COUNTY, Calif. — The final preparations are underway for the annual Lake County Fair, which opens next week.

The fair will take place from Thursday, Aug. 31, through Sunday, Sept. 3.

The gates open on Aug. 31 at 6 p.m., starting with the Blue Ribbon Dinner and the 8 p.m. grand opening.

This year’s grand marshal is the Lake County Tribal Health Consortium.

Volunteer of the Year is Larry Leonard of Leonard’s Hauling & Tractor Service.

Lake County Fair’s nightly grandstand events start at 8 p.m. and are always free with admission.

Kicking off a fun-filled four days of all things fair will be Thursday night’s toughest trucks, Jeeps and more in the Mud Boggs.

On Friday, you have to see the amazing sideways action sponsored by Twin Pine Casino of the drifters and burnouts.

Saturday’s double action night with the destruction derby and the enduring favorite — the boat races.

Sunday, Fiesta Day is Lake County Tribal Health’s Los Campeones Mas Jovenes Del Jaripeo Ranchero Professional and bandas, música and baile.

This year’s fair also will include corn hole, free kids area, Lake County Idol, daily karaoke, Mr. & Miss Lake County Fair and on Sunday during the diaper race a new washing machine will be given away by Pardini Appliance.

The Lake County Fairgrounds are located at 401 Martin St., Lakeport.

For tickets visit the fair website.