This Aug. 15-18, the San Juan County Fair is bound to be action packed with the theme “Rockin’ the Salish Sea.”

“The concept for the theme was a collaboration of ideas the board liked,” said Jennifer Allen, fair and events manager, adding that the fair board wanted to come up with an idea that showcased aquaculture and the county’s marine life.

Fair board member Barbara Bevens explained there has been a long list of theme ideas to choose from each year, and that they try to pick early so they can put a call out to artists for a poster design in January. This year’s artists seemed to be particularly inspired by the theme, Bevens noted. The winning poster, designed by Grace Brown and Kristine Brown, depicts a guitar-playing orca with a barn in the background.

“Rockin’ the Salish Sea” recognizes the waters surrounding the community, and also serves as a nod to the music and entertainment lineup. Bevens noted that entertainment is the cherry on the fair pie, and this year the board was lucky to have Lars Sorenson putting the events together.

“He really has done a fantastic job,” said Jen Rigg, fair board member.

Keeping with the ocean theme, the University of Washington’s Marine Laboratories will provide a touch tank. Talks involving the Salish Sea by researchers and others will be scheduled during the fair as well, according to Allen. Fair staff is also working with the San Juan Historical Society on a display of old photographs of the island’s fishing industry, Allen noted.

“Did You Know?” facts, compiled by Bevens about local marine life, will be scattered throughout the fair. There will be a best-use-of-theme award and an Otter-ly Superb award for the top two 2018 best-of-the-fair vendors. Ballots will be at information kiosks at the fair, and at the office located in the front of the main building.

“The sea is something the fair has never really touched on, yet our waters are an important part of our community,” Allen said.

Read more about the fair in the San Juan County Fair Guide.