GREENVILLE — The 2026 Great Darke County Fair came to a peaceful close late Saturday night, earning praise from Darke County Sheriff Mark Whittaker for the respectful behavior of fairgoers and the work of the Darke County Agricultural Society.
“We’ve had a very safe fair,” Whittaker said. “We’ve had very minimal problems, and for the most part, everybody has been very well behaved. It’s been an enjoyable fair.”
Although final attendance figures were not yet available, Whittaker said crowds appeared strong throughout the nine-day event.
“There were a lot of times this week that I thought it was a little bit busier than last year,” he said. “I’ve had a lot of positive remarks from the people I’ve run across, so I think the fair board has done a pretty good job this year.”
Uniformed deputies maintained a visible presence throughout the fairgrounds, moving among the crowds and remaining available to assist visitors.
Whittaker said that presence is an important part of the safety plan he discusses with fair board members each year.
“The goal is making sure we keep deputies present, visible and moving around the fair,” Whittaker said. “Their presence lets everybody know we’re there and available to help, and it sets the tone for the fair.”
Whittaker believes the consistent visibility of law enforcement contributes significantly to the fair’s peaceful atmosphere.
“I’ve been telling the fair board for years that our presence has a lot to do with how safe the Darke County Fair is,” he said.
The large crowd attending country music artist Dylan Scott’s Sunday night concert also caused few concerns for law enforcement.
“We had very little, if any, problems at the concert,” Whittaker said. “Everybody did great, everybody had a good time and everybody was well-behaved.”
One medical incident was reported during the concert, but Whittaker said there were no notable behavioral problems associated with the event.
Beyond maintaining safety, the fair provided deputies with opportunities to build relationships with the public in a relaxed community setting.
“The deputies have enjoyed the fair this year, too,” Whittaker said. “It’s a great opportunity for the deputies and myself to interact with the citizens we serve and with visitors.”
Whittaker said he personally spoke with numerous people while walking the fairgrounds during the week.
As the final crowds departed Saturday night, the sheriff credited cooperative fairgoers, visible law enforcement and the fair board’s planning for another safe and successful Great Darke County Fair.
