Davenport, Iowa (July 19, 2010) -- Grandstand acts are a major part of the Great Mississippi Valley Fair, set for Tuesday through Sunday, Aug. 3-8, at the Mississippi Valley Fairgrounds, 2815 W. Locust St., Davenport.

The acts are also a sizeable expense.

"Our budget for talent was $650,000 this year," said fair manager Bob Fox, who handles the booking through a talent agency. "I did it for $600,000, so we're under budget. But that doesn't include the sound and lights."

Here's the lineup:
Tuesday -- Montgomery Gentry.
Wednesday -- Kellie Pickler.
Thursday -- Dierks Bentley.
Friday -- ZZ Top.
Saturday -- Eric Church.
Sunday -- Blake Shelton.

"I think it's a good, varied lineup this year," Fox said.

But he also noted that booking the grandstand acts is not easy. "It's getting more and more difficult every year to reinvent the wheel," he said.

Fox said he has to locate appropriate acts whose routing -- their itinerary for shows before and after the fair -- brings them near Davenport and allows them time to stop and perform during the fair. The artists also need to be affordable.

Admission to the grandstand show at 8 each night at the 91st Mississippi Valley Fair is by Fun Card only, with the exception of children 3 and under, who are admitted free. The Fun Cards, which also cover daily admission to the grounds, are $40 each and are for sale at the fair office and select area businesses.

"We've held the price on the Fun Card this year, and look at the bargain," said Fox. "Look at the value -- six days of major entertainment for $40."

Those who don't buy a Fun Card can still enjoy the fair's many varied exhibits and grounds attractions. Daily admission tickets are $10 for adults and $3 for children 4-12. Children 3 and under are admitted free.

For more information, click on www.mvfair.com or phone (563) 326-5338.

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