In less than a month, it will be that time of year again – time to “Do the Puyallup.”
With the blend of a call to action and a patriotic slant, the 2002 Puyallup Fair’s theme, “Come Together,” has special meaning throughout the 17-day run, Sept. 6-22.
New this year is “Stars and Stripes Forever,” a brand new, free exhibit, which features the country’s presidents and patriots.
Visit with the presidents (okay, actors playing the presidents), tour the oval office, salute the flags of our country and trace this nation’s road to independence.
The fair will host “Salute to Courage,” a Sept. 11 tribute featuring the Travis Air Force Base Band, with free gate admission for the 11 a.m. event.
Three brand new rides will be at the fair this year to make your stomach flip and flop, including The Inferno, SCAD Dive and Euro Bungee.
This year’s art show features nationally recognized artist Fred Oldfield.
Starting Sept. 14, take a look at Learning Space’s classroom technology for tomorrow to get a look at how schools are changing.
Special exhibits include: Hewlett-Packard’s HP Mobility Tour Sept. 6-9; the National Basketball Association big rig Sept.. 10-20; The Foster Imposters Road Show with the Foster Farm chickens will stop by Sept. 14-15; and Health Expo will be featured throughout the fair, with HealthExpo Senior Tuesdays.
Animals and agriculture continue to be a popular tradition with fans. The 4-H, FFA and Jr. Poultry state fairs are highlights each year at the Puyallup Fair. Grange displays, national and regional animal shows and the Petting Farm will offer enjoyment for all ages.
This year’s PRCA Rodeo will feature one rodeo on Friday, two on Saturday and the Sunday finals will be filmed by ESPN2.
Other fun to be had at the Puyallup Fair includes over 800 exhibits, Hobby Hall, the flower building, photo and art shows, and, of course, good food, including grilled onion burgers, cotton candy and scones.
This year’s concert series will feature Alanis Morissette, Brooks and Dunn, Bill Cosby and Chicago. Tickets can be purchase at Ticketmaster.
Gates open at 10 a.m. daily. Adult gate tickets are $9, youth (6-18 years) and seniors (62+) are $6, and those 5 and under are free. Parking is $6.
For more information, visit the Puyallup Fair’s new, updated Web site at www.thefair.com or call the 24-hour hotline at 253/841-5045.