One of the more unique aspects of the High Country is its occasional throwbacks to a simpler time. There are a handful of traditions and small town flavors that just aren't seen anywhere else.

One prime example - the Avery County Agricultural and Horticultural Fair.

This year's fair carries the theme "Wallerin' and Hollerin'." It runs from Sept 10-14, with events daily.

Highlights of this year’s fair include livestock exhibits, rides, authentic fair cuisine, games of skill and numerous activities geared for the entire family.

“In addition to lawnmower races, we have added mud bogging on Friday the 14th to go with our existing activities such as coon dog trials, chain saw competition, cornhole tournament and heritage tent,” Avery A&H Fair board member Aneda Johnson said.

One news site once referred to Avery County holding "on to the diminishing county-fair tradition." You just don't see homespun family fun like this too often.

“It’s a good way to show off to our kids our agriculture,” said Jerry Moody, fair manager, of the fair, one of only two remaining county-wide fairs still held in Western North Carolina.

It's can be a whole lot of fun.