Beacon Senior News has some great events planned this year at the Mesa County Fair that are fun and free for our valley’s seniors.

Join us at the Mesa County Fairgrounds on Wednesday, July 17, from 11 a.m.-4 p.m. for an opportunity to win $1,000 and other valuable prizes.

There is no admission charge to the fair this year, so after you make your way through the main entrance, turn left and head to the BEACON tent for live entertainment and free activities.

BEACON Bingo!

There’s no cost to play Bingo, and you can win $1,000 cash!

Both sessions are sponsored and called by Grand Junction Senior Recreation Center volunteers. The first session, sponsored by The Lodge at Grand Junction, will be from 11:30 a.m.-1 p.m. and the second session, sponsored by SummitWest Care, will be from 1:30-3 p.m.

Arrive early to the Elam Construction Stage in the Mahindra Arena to get your lucky seat and card. Seating is conveniently located in the covered arena next to the beer garden.

Crafts & Entertainment

Spread some joy and express your creativity by painting river rocks, making magnets and other free activities. Paint and supplies will be provided, courtesy of Pinnacle Hearing Aid Center.

Join us from 12:30-1:30 p.m. for a special meet and greet with Bogart the Bull and nine-time PBR World Finals Qualifier Tony Mendes.

Live music provided by Aunt Bea and Uncle Durty, Homegrown Dreamers, Morgan Crouse, Ron Koss and the Loose Cannon Band.

Senior Lunch Special

We’ve made special arrangements with several food trucks to offer a $5 Senior Lunch Special for those age 55 and older.

Special thanks to this year’s fair sponsors for making it free, and a big thank you to the Mesa County Fair board for allowing the BEACON to host this special event.

For more information, visit www.BeaconSeniorNews.com.