Mower County has gone country, at least for the next week, that is. Among some Wild West action at the Mower County Fair, a legend in music is returning to Austin in spirit, as well. And who can forget FFA,

4-H and all the livestock?

 

1. Figure 8 races

Calling all rednecks. Those brave enough to hitch up their campers and race in a figure 8, demolition-style race will gather at the Mower County Fairgrounds for one heck of a showdown. The carnage starts at 7 p.m. tonight at the grandstands, 700 12th St. SW, at the grandstands.

 

2. Cowboy action shoot

Don’t bring your guns to town, unless you’re in the cowboy action shootout at the Mower County Fair. Participants will spin those smoke wagons at 7 p.m. Friday at the horse arena.

 

3. Great Frontier Bull Riding

Thought the previous two events were intense? Try bull riding. The Great Frontier Bull Riding show, also in the grandstands, will cut loose at 7 p.m. Saturday.

 

4. Magic the Gathering

It may not fit with the theme of things, but Magic the Gathering buffs can finally have their say in Austin. The second of four tournaments at the new Legacy Comics and Games in the Oak Park Mall, 1301 18th Ave. NW, will hit the tables at 5 p.m. on Saturday.

 

5. Sean Benz

Speaking of “Don’t Bring Your Guns to Town,” Young Johnny Cash will again visit Austin next Thursday. Sean Benz, his black hat, outfit and guitar will perform 7:30 p.m. at the Paramount Theatre, 125 Fourth Ave. NE. Tickets are $12 in advance, $14 at the door and as always, $5 for students.

 

Other events

Remember, the Mower County Fair continues through 5 p.m. Sunday. Among those events, singer and entertainer Tom Pease will be at the Jay C. Hormel Nature Center this week, a bluegrass band is moseying into town, and the farmers’ market and Tuesdays on Main are still chugging along into late summer.

 

Look to Reporter Matt Peterson’s column every Friday for more about upcoming events in Austin. For even more, check out the calendar on Page 4 every day in the print edition and the AustinDailyHerald.com homepage.