Plan the logistics of your visit to the fair, such as how many people will be in your group, admission prices, parking and transportation. If your calendar is flexible, check on the fair's discount days, which give discounts for seniors, children and some days of the week. A few public bus routes serve the fairgrounds, and there are a number of free park-and-ride lots in the vicinity.
Check the fair calendar for shows, rodeos, parades and entertainment for all ages. Entertainment at the Grandstand venue requires additional priced tickets, but all other shows at the fair are free with gate admission.
Buy tickets in advance for a discount on the rides. Kidway rides are for children, while the Midway rides tempt the older crowd. Ride tickets will be sold during the fair at full price by single tickets or sheets of tickets. Keep in mind that the rides in the Adventure Park (located east of the Midway) do not accept Midway or Kidway tickets. Adventure Park attractions have their own ticket booths.
Check the judging schedule to see the most animals during your visit. Animal categories range from horses and cattle to rabbits and poultry. If you can't make the judging, make sure to stop by the barns to see what animals are on display.
Visit the competition exhibits if you want to see local handiwork on your day at the fair. Exhibits include homemade goods, such as baked goods, crafts, fine art and needlecraft. If you like something, you might be able to buy it---artists in the fine art category can put their work on sale.
Come to the fair hungry if you want to sample a wide variety of treats. Stick with a basic corndog and cotton candy, or branch out to try some barbecue, pasta or a slice of watermelon. Many of the concession stands offer prize drawings and discounts depending on the day and time.
