The barns are full, vendors are stocked and parking is limited on Orchard Avenue this week as the 99th annual Umatilla County Fair brings food, fun and entertainment to Hermiston today through Saturday.

Meanwhile, the 25th edition of the Farm-City Pro Rodeo kicks off tonight at the FCPR arena, with tickets still available for most nights.

The fair week officially began last Saturday with the parade, a nearly three-hour extravaganza that brought hundreds of participants and thousands of spectators to Hermiston from across the country.

Tuesday, vendors, live entertainment, the Davis Carnival and livestock judging all marked the first full day of activities at the Umatilla County Fairgrounds. The gates open at 9 a.m. each day this week and activities will continue late into the night.

This year’s theme is “From Wagon Wheels to Ferris Wheels,” recognizing the county’s sesquicentennial celebration, and that history will be on display today as a number of performances by county groups are slated for the Wildhorse Main Stage, beginning at 11 a.m. today. The lineup includes a living history of Umatilla County, tribal dancers, old-time fiddlers and Athena bag pipes.

Today, Aug. 8, also marks the backyard barbecue competition from 10 a.m. until 4 p.m. and the Battle of the Bands at 7 p.m.

Entertainment continues throughout each day, including a hypnotist, musicians, dancers and children’s performances. This year’s fair includes about 4,000 exhibits and full vendor spaces, both indoors and out.

“I have a waiting list for vendors. That’s how full we are,” fair manager Peggy Clough said.

Regular price admission to the Umatilla County Fair is $7 for adults, $5 for seniors and $4 for children 6-12. Children 5 and under are free. Season passes are also available for $25 for adults, $20 for seniors and $15 for children 6-12.

For more information, call the fair office at 541-567-6121 or visit www.co.umatilla.or.us/fair.htm.

For rodeo tickets or information, call (541)564-8500.