Collin Raye performing at the Malone grandstand. (Provided photo — Blaine LaVoie/Malone Telegram)

MALONE — After a one-year hiatus, the annual Franklin County Fair kicked into high gear Friday with promising numbers.

“Numbers drastically improved since 2019. It was an outstanding opening night. One of our best,” Fair Director Dave Gokey said.

The fairgrounds hosted Roots & Boots, Collin Raye, Sammy Kershaw and Aaron Tippin, at the grandstands Friday which filled the venue to over 90% capacity.

That is just the beginning, Gokey said. “We anticipate Chris Janson’s event on Aug. 14 to be the highlight of the week.”‘

Tickets for all seats, including track seating, are still available.

Gokey further went into detail on the poultry show hosted Friday at the fairgrounds.

“It was a success. We hosted over 300 animals. They were well cared for and the venue was well attended.”

Good weather is predicted for fair week, with temperatures ranging from low 70s to mid-80s all week with slight possibilities of rain Wednesday, Thursday and Friday.

For details, visit frcofair.com/news.