Oregon State Fair coming up soon
Oregon’s 11-day party is almost here, and what an event it will be! Gates open at 10 am August 24 for the 147th Oregon State Fair in Salem, which runs through Labor Day, September 3.
Fairgoers will be delighted with the huge array of free concerts, exhibits, kid fun, contests, special promotions and penny-pinching deals.
As always, the Fair is the standard bearer of all things agricultural, showcasing the special traditions of farming that built Oregon’s economy and still drive it today. Small animals, big animals, animals that fly, bleat, bray and moo are a Fairtime classic. Expect 4-H and other competitions to be both fierce and fun.
Not so traditional? Check out the cutting-edge entertainment, starting with the “Rock U” Music Pavilion, new to the Fair this year. Enter one of eight contests (Hurry! Deadline is August 17) or experience the custom designed, interactive Institute of Rock ‘n Roll Exhibit . Rockers and wannabes, this Pavilion show is for you. Jam on a 10-foot long keyboard, shred an electric guitar at one of 4 guitar stations, or just whang away on the drums and call it percussive. Groupies welcome.
Foodies and wine lovers can combine the show with “Pairings: A Celebration of Oregon Wine, Cuisine & Music.” Experience award-winning Oregon wines, paired with exquisite cuisine from outstanding Oregon chefs. Savor the music of Patrick Lamb’s American Soul and Salute to Stevie Wonder in the Hart of the Garden.
Music lovers will also enjoy this year’s spectacular concert lineup. Tickets are still available for the following shows held at the LB Day Comcast Amphitheater. Act fast!
Aug 24 Colbie Caillat/Gavin Degraw.
Aug 25 Joe Walsh.
Aug 31 Jeff Dunham
Sept 1 Demi Lovato/Hot Chelle Rae
Sept 3 Jake Owen
Tickets are still available at www.oregonstatefair.org and include fair admission.
Everyone loves a bargain, so check out these discounts and special days. See website for restrictions and details:
Opening day, August 24: $5.00 Friday! All gate admission and pre-sale tickets are $5.00. On sale till 4 pm.
Monday, August 27, 2012 – Les Schwab Tires Kids Day! Free admission for kids aged 0-13. 10 am to 5 pm. Plus, half off Funtastic carnival rides and game tickets.
Tuesday, August 28, 2012 – Celebrate Freedom Day. Free admission for all veterans and current military personnel with military ID.
Tuesday, August 28, 2012 – KATU Channel 2 Wristband Ride Day. Pick your time of day! $30 unlimited ride wristband. Includes two free games.
Wednesday, August 29, 2012 – Comcast Wristband Ride Day Pick your time of day! $30 unlimited ride wristband. Includes two free games.
Friday, August 31: Oregon Lottery Day. Get a $1 4-Spot Keno ticket when you buy one $1 Mega Millions(R) ticket in the Oregon Lottery Game Zone. Over 21 only.
Every day: Free with admission. Outstanding live entertainment at the KOIN Local 6 Center Stage, Spirit of Oregon Stage, and Les Schwab Tires Familyville Stage.
Watch for the official program in the August 23 Statesman-Journal, or go online to www.oregonstatefair.org
