Visit the Washington State Fair

If you haven’t been living in the area for long, you might not know that the Washington State Fair is held each year just a short drive away from Nantucket Gate apartments in Tacoma. With the fair so close by, why not head out and enjoy some of the attractions? There’s plenty to do, and the fair will run from September 2nd to the 25th, so you’ll have plenty of time to visit. You can find more information on their website here.

As always, this year’s fair features loads of attractions. Discover the Dinosaurs is a unique exhibit with moving replica dinosaurs to touch and see, with dinosaur riding, themed inflatables, a dino dig, and gem and fossil panning. There will be art shows and crafting classes, including the Hobby Hall, an exhibit focusing on crafts and collecting. And don’t forget traditional animal exhibits including the Piglet Palace, draft horse and driving demonstrations, and the Fair Farm.

The fair offers lots of contests and competitions with great prizes to win, including the Ultimate Fan contest at the Ultimate Tailgate party. Fairground booths and prizes are also available in abundance!

Head over to the Midvale fairground for carnival rides, including the Classic Coaster, the Extreme Scream, and the Rainier Rush inverted roller coaster. You have to be a certain height to ride, but for kids that don’t meet the mark there’s also Sillyville, with rides for anyone 32” or taller.

But maybe what piques your interest most are the numerous planned concerts and performances. This year’s appearances include Tim Mcgraw, Alan Jackson, Kid Rock & Uncle Kracker, Creedence Clearwater, Smash Mouth, Jeff Foxworthy & Larry the Cable Guy, Train, and more. Not to mention the rodeo, which will feature traditional events like bull riding, bareback & saddle bronc riding, roping, steer wrestling, and barrel racing, plus the Rodeo Parade and Cattle Drive. Or just go out and enjoy the Friday Fireworks spectacular!

And of course, the Fair offers lots of food options including over nine hundred vendors — plan to make plenty of time for snacking and shopping!

What is your favorite part of attending a fair? Please share in the comments.