Editorial

There's something for everyone at Nebraska State Fair

Friday, August 24, 2012

We know that tonight's calendar is already full, with the opening of the high school football season. Many area teams have away games tonight, but teams playing at home include: Hitchcock County hosts Southwest in Trenton; Hayes Center hosts Paxton; Wauneta-Palisade plays host to Cody-Kilgore; and the Wolves of Arthur County are going to Maywood.

Good luck to all area teams -- we encourage everyone to enjoy the fall weather and take in your nearest gridiron matchup.

If your weekend is otherwise wide open, the Nebraska State Fair would be the perfect destination. It began today at Fonner Park in Grand Island and runs through Labor Day. Gate admission is $10 for adults and preferred parking is another $10, although there is free parking available in many lots.

Thrill seekers will enjoy the high-flying rides provided by Belle City Amusements; those with more refined tastes may enjoy the first Wine and Grape Festival on September 2nd.

Agriculture enthusiast (doesn't that describe everyone in rural Nebraska?) will enjoy the 4-H and FFA exhibits. On Saturday at 1 p.m., the State Fair and RFD-TV will attempt to break the Guinness Book of World Records for a Classic Tractor Parade. A Draft Horse Hitch and Pull competition will take place Saturday and Sunday at 5:30 p.m.

Union Pacific will be celebrating their 150th anniversary at the fair this year with a steam engine and passenger train display during Labor Day weekend.

Political junkies will want to catch the debate between the 2012 United States Senate candidates Bob Kerry and Deb Fischer Saturday afternoon at 4 p.m. at the Heartland Events Center.

If engines are your thing, catch the Figure 8 Races Sunday afternoon at 1:00 p.m. Drivers from all over the state will come to drive at each other -- on purpose. Lawn mower races are next Saturday, and there will be a demolition derby on Labor Day.

The Charlie Daniels Band is performing tonight, but other concerts include Larry Gatlin and the Gatlin Brothers on Wednesday; Mercy Me on Thursday; The Fray next Friday; Billy Currington next Saturday; and The Steve Miller Band on Sunday, Sept. 2. Some concerts are included with gate admission, other have an additional charge. Wristbands are required for the free concerts and they can be picked up on the day of that concert at the Heartland Events Center box office.

Or maybe you just want to go for the food. Barbeque, shaved ice, or just about anything on a stick -- many of these culinary delights are only available at the State Fair.

The above list only skims the surface of the many activities, food, rides and fun available at the Nebraska State Fair. For more information, go to www.statefair.org.

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