JOHN DAY Changes new activities, new pricing and parking arrangements are coming to Grant County Fair and Rodeo this year.

The 2012 event is set for Aug. 22-25 at the Fairgrounds in John Day.

Organizers hope a number of changes will help put the Fair on a self-sustaining basis.

Fair Board president Les Zaitz said one challenge to that effort is the two-day rodeo, which is popular but costs $25,000 to put on.

Rodeo admission traditionally has been free with paid admission to the fair.

The board considered charging separately for the rodeo, but opted against that. Instead, the Fair ticket pricing has been adjusted to reflect the added value of the rodeo.

Daily admission tickets will cost $8 for adults, $5 for children age 6-15, $5 for senior citizens, and free for children to age 5. Four-day passes for adults will cost $25 for the first pass and $15 for the second pass; the rates for seniors and youth are $15 and $12.

The opening day, Aug. 22, is half-price day.

Missing from this years fair will be the carnival rides. Last years operator canceled out for this year, and no other vendors could bring rides for the dates already set for the fair.

The Fair organizers have come up with some new activities aimed at children and youth, however.

The National Guard is bringing in its rock-climbing wall, and there will be a four-day BMX bike exhibit with activities for young riders.

The Oregon Area Health Education Center will offer In-A-Box hands-on activities that encourage children to explore science, health and the environment.

There also will be daily demonstrations by local artisans in crafts such as weaving, flintknapping, chain-saw carving and more. Fairgrounds manager Mary Weaver said there are openings for artisans and others who would like to demonstrate a craft or work skill.

The pavilion, always packed with displays and booths, will have a new look inside. Weaver said the drapes separating the individual sectors wont be so high, so you can see your friends and neighbors across the room, and better enjoy all the activities in the room.

The Fair also will add a Ranchers Breakfast to the schedule this year.

There will be music in the area next to the beer garden, and in another new wrinkle, the fairgrounds will allow beer sold from the beer garden to be consumed in a portion of the grandstands. Previously, beer has not been allowed in any part of the stands.

Weaver said monitors will be on duty to make sure the rules are followed.

Organizers also are offering on-site parking this year, with a $5 fee.

The Fair is seeking sponsors for this years event, and businesses can contact the fairgrounds office or Weaver at weaverm@grantcounty-or.gov.