Get ready for some serious fun, as the 2004 Puyallup Fair starts today, with plenty to please the entire family! The Fair runs through Sept. 26.
Kicking off the festivities is the Puyallup Fair Western Rodeo Parade and Cattle Drive, scheduled for Sept. 10, at 10 a.m. There will be 60 head of Mexican Corriente steers taking the lead, followed by a number of equestrian teams and high school bands, along with celebrity costume character Garfield. Former PLU football coach Frosty Westering is the Grand Marshal.
A staple in Washington tradition since 1900, the Fair is widely known for its great variety of entertainment, with concerts ranging from Reba McEntire to ZZ Top to Maroon5. Guests will also enjoy all of the food, animals, exhibits, and rides. Other favorites include the 4-H and FFA state fairs, home arts displays, Hobby Hall, and photography shows. Nearly 1.2 million people attended the fair last year, making it the sixth highest attended fair in North America.
Special highlights of the Fair will include ToonzVille, a building dedicated to younger Fair guests, with appearances by celebrity characters Garfield, SpongeBob SquarePants, Dora the Explorer, Spider-Man and the Fairly OddParents on select days. Guests will also delight in the colorful paintings of Charles Wysocki, whose unique take on American life has been showcased worldwide. Fairgoers may also notice the presence of a new 23,500 square foot Exhibition Center, along with renovations to the 18,000 square foot Hobby Hall.
Upcoming events also include Military Appreciation Day on Sept. 13, honoring our men and women in uniform; Senior Tuesdays, Sept. 14 and 21, with plenty of exhibits and entertainment to please our older guests; and Latino Celebration Day on Sept. 19, featuring music and folkloric dance, and information booths.
The Puyallup Fair first started in 1900. This Pacific Northwest tradition features top name entertainment, the PRCA Rodeo, rides, exhibits, food, flowers, and animals. For further information, visit www.thefair.com or call the 24-hour hotline at 253/841-5045.
