The Freeborn County Fair begins today and is an important event in Freeborn County, according to a local leader.

“It’s probably the best six days of summer in Albert Lea,” said Freeborn County Board Chairman Mike Lee. “You get to see top-notch talent, the work of 4-Hers and you can see friends and family. It’s just a real good time for Freeborn County and Albert Lea.”

He described the fair as a county gathering where people can show off their skills.

“It brings in a lot of people and money to Albert Lea,” he said. “It’s a good economic boost for the city and the county, and it’s one of the premier county fairs in the state.”

Lee is planning on attending the fair. He plans on walking around and fielding questions from residents.

Some of Wednesday’s animal events include:

4-H Swine Show, 8 a.m. at the North Jan Reed Livestock Arena,

4-H Sheep Show, 5 p.m. at the Jan Reed Livestock Arena.

Some of Thursday’s events, all at the Jan Reed Livestock Arena, include:

4-H dairy show, 8 a.m.

4-H beef show, 9 a.m.

4-H dairy goat show, 2 p.m.

4-H market goat show, 4 p.m.

Some of Friday’s events include:

• Open dairy show, 9 a.m.

• Light horse and pony riding show, 9 a.m., outdoor arena

• 4-H beef fitting contest, sheep barn, 1:30 p.m.

• 4-H supreme showmanship contest, 3 p.m., Jan Reed Livestock Arena

Some of Saturday’s events include:

• Pony and draft horse show, 9 a.m., outdoor arena

• 4-H livestock auction, 9 a.m., Jan Reed Livestock Arena

• Steer and heifer show, 4 p.m., Jan Reed Livestock Arena

There are moderate chances of rain on Wednesday, Thursday and Friday with highs in the upper 70s and low 80s. Highs are expected to be in the upper 70s this weekend with slight chances of rain. High humidity is expected.