Fun at the Kentucky State Fair

This week, we talked to Amanda Storment from the Kentucky State Fair to get the inside scoop on what we can expect this year.

She says that the concerts at this year’s fair will really draw music lovers. “We have four main stage concerts at Freedom Hall. The free concert series is in old Cardinal Stadium.” Some of the Main Stage artists include Journey, Pat Benatar, Rascal Flatts, and The Band Perry.  Another great event that’s sure to be a crowd-pleaser this year is...
...the World Championship Horse Show. “It’s basically the Kentucky Derby for saddle bred horses. It’s the best of the best.” The horse show, which offers free performances every morning and afternoon in air-conditioned Freedom Hall, is a great chance for families to beat the heat.

You can’t have a fair without fantastic food. “Everybody comes for the food.  We’ve made many provisions for healthy food options, but it’s also one of the only times a year that some people are going to get a corn dog. We give you the foods you love but aren’t necessarily supposed to eat.”

When it comes to rides, Storment says that the ferris wheel is one of the most popular annually because it’s great for all ages, including those who aren’t exactly daredevils: “I won’t ride rides, but I’ll ride that one,” she says. Other exhibits at this year’s fair include the Discover Farm, which teaches kids about farm life and features baby animals.

There are plenty of ways to enjoy the fair on a budget. “We have expanded our opportunities to save money on rides. We are offering wristband specials every day of the fair except for Saturdays,” she says. Another great deal is Military Monday, when all active duty and veteran families get in for half price with a valid military ID.

If families want to save on food, bringing a picnic from home is always a great option.  The Kentucky State Fair, which runs from August 16-26, is a great chance to spend some end-of-summer time with your family. Advance discount tickets will be available through August 15^th at all area Kroger stores.

Contributed by Tricia Hussung, Editorial Intern for Today’s Family magazine.