Bloomburg hosts annual Cullen Baker Country Fair

By Stephen Jones
sjones@casscountynow.com

The streets of Bloomburg will soon be bustling with activity and excitement, for the Cullen Baker Country Fair will commence this Saturday.
This annual tradition takes its name from the infamous bandit, Cullen Baker, who ravaged his way across the Ark-La-Tex countryside during the mid-1800s, until he met his fateful end in the small town of Bloomburg, Texas, but do not let the fair’s namesake fool you: this event has something for all members of the family. 
When the fair opens at 8 a.m., everyone can stop by food vendors and arts and craft booths, which need to be set up by 7:30 a.m.
These booths and vendors can be found on Main Street between Texas and Mississippi Streets, and fried pies will be available at the Country Store. 
Craft vendors must turn in their applications to Melissa Harrington, at City Hall by Friday.
 Along with the crafts and food, visitors can get their faces painted and enjoy an all-day car show, while kids can play around in the jump house.
The annual parade will make its return this year on opening day, at 10 a.m. Those participating in the parade will begin to line up at 9:15 a.m., so be sure to catch the parade as it makes its way north on Hwy 3129 and then east on Main Street. 
People who wish to ride a horse during the parade must provide coggins papers to ensure the horse is healthy or the rider will not be allowed to participate in the parade.
Since 1974, the main goal of the Cullen Baker Country Fair has been to raise funds for the Bloomburg Volunteer Fire Department, which did not exist before these fundraising efforts, leaving residents in the far east area of Cass County and adjoining Miller County, Arkansas without fire department services. Sticking to the fair’s volunteering theme, the event will be staffed by local volunteers.
For general fair information, please contact Melissa Harrington at 430-342-2560, and for car show questions, contact Chris Polite at 430-342-3188.
More information can also be found on the Cullen Baker Fair Facebook page.