WATERLOO -- While there may not be lions, the 2008 National Cattle Congress fair will have tigers, bears and plenty to make people say "oh my."

The annual fair kicks off Thursday and runs through Sunday.

People can get a glimpse of black and brown bears at the Great American Bear Show -- a first-time attraction. Also new, virtual rock 'n' roll stars can win a real prize in a "Guitar Hero" contest at 11 a.m. Saturday.

Returning attractions that were new last year include the Marcan Tiger Preserve's Tigers of India, motorcycle races and expanded arts and craft categories.

"What we're trying to do is draw the younger people back to the fair," NCC manager Doug Miller said.

To draw a younger crowd, the NCC also invited local alternative and rock bands to perform at the fair on stage near the carnival area.

"It's letting bands that don't play too much to hopefully play to an audience," said Linda Schmitt, NCC executive assistant.

The first 35 players to sign up for the "Guitar Hero" contest get to put their skills to the test with the popular video game. The winner will have to master more than a video game: Contestants will be judged not only on points, but on costume and performance as well.

Alternative rock and "Guitar Hero" may not be the first things people expect at the NCC fair, said Jim Koch.

"When you think of the National Cattle Congress, you think of cows," he said.

Cattle and other livestock are still a part of the fair. Dairy and beef cattle will be on display along with other livestock.

"It's still a major part of our fair," Miller said. "We want to bring agriculture to urban people, particularly the youth."

People can see how dairy cows are milked each day of the fair in Barn 6. Dozens of rabbits also will be at the fair for children to look at and pet in the Paul Barger building.

The arts and crafts contests are open to everyone. Submissions will be accepted through Tuesday. Judging begins Wednesday.

Miller said the blend of new attractions and traditional agriculture displays keeps the fair fresh, but anchors it to nearly a century of tradition. The NCC will celebrate the 100th anniversary of the annual fair in 2010.

"We're just kind of ramping up for our centennial," he said. "People expect new things every year and new activities every year."

Other highlights for this year's event include:

Spiderman makes an appearance from noon to 6 p.m. Sunday at Estel Hall.

An expanded demolition derby at 1 p.m. Sunday at the outdoor track.

The PRCA Rodeo, Friday and Saturday at 7 p.m.; 3 p.m. Sunday.

Flat track motorcycle races at 7:30 p.m. Friday.

Dairy cattle show at 9 a.m. Friday at McElroy Auditorium.

More than 120 exhibitors of goods and services will display their wares at Estel Hall daily at 10 a.m.

Admission is $10 for adults and $5 for children ages 5 through 12. Children under 4 are admitted free. Tickets can be purchased at the gate. The NCC is not pre-selling tickets this year, Miller said.

Thursday is Seniors Day, with $8 admission for people 60 years of age or older. Friday is Kids Day, with $4 admission for ages 5-12 and $6 admission for children 13-17.

For more information, contact the National Cattle Congress at 234-7515.

Contact John Molseed

at (319) 291-1418 or

john.molseed@wcfcourier.com