Tulsa State Fair Taking Shape
By KELSY LORIN TAYLOR
Web Editor and Feature Writer
CREATING TRADITION: The Fair Team has worked together to create an event that everyone will enjoy. From left are Kara Eschbach, Teresa Tryan, Allison Bond, Marilyn Denny, Amanda Blair, Linda Burrows, Mark Andrus, Amanda Bretz, Sarah Thompson and Teresa Clayton.
KELSY LORIN TAYLOR for GTR Newspapers
This year’s Tulsa State Fair will bring new experiences and traditional favorites to the area from Sept. 30 through Oct. 10. The theme for the event this year is “What’s Your Fair Favorite” and will be tied into every aspect of the fair.
Creativity is one of the most important components in planning for the Tulsa State Fair. In keeping with the theme, the Fair Team hopes to create an event that reflects everyone’s favorite features. “Planning sessions begin immediately after the commencement of the Tulsa State Fair. Themes are developed, attractions are solidified and everyone works together to ensure that all expectations are exceeded in every imaginable way,” explains Tulsa State Fair Executive Manager Amanda Blair.
Patrons are sure to enjoy the variety of ground attractions that will be found throughout the fairgrounds. The Sea Lion Splash and Petting Zoo will bring smiles to all while the new Timberworks Lumberjack Show and Blacksmith Village are sure to also quickly become favorites.
After attending the livestock shows, patrons will have the opportunity to learn more about agriculture through Milking Parlor Demonstrations, Surgical Suite and Birthing Center.
Bixby’s Rainforest Rescue will be one of the new educational attractions this year. Patrons will be taken on an adventure by a guide named Bixby who shares the importance of conservation and preservation. A variety of animals will be featured throughout the exhibit including a toucan and green winged macaw.
Other educational attractions will include Discovering Science, Fun on the Farm and Creative Station.
In addition, Habitat for Humanity has partnered with the Tulsa State Fair to construct a house during the event. The project will provide patrons with a glimpse into the meaningful mission of the organization. Blair says, “Upon completion, the house will be moved nearby and become a home for a very deserving family.”
Flying far above the ground attractions, a seemingly endless number of rides will thrill patrons. “An enormous roller coaster known as The Comet will return this year, which everyone is very excited about. There will also be a new swing that will send brave patrons for a spin,” Blair adds.
Also complimenting the fair will be the time-honored Ferris Wheel and Sky Ride, which will provide incredible views of the entire event.
An array of food will be offered around every corner of the Tulsa State Fair. Traditional choices are caramel apples, roasted corn, onion blossoms, cotton candy and corn dogs. However, Blair says that she is looking forward to having fried pickles with ranch dressing.
This year, competitive exhibits will be relocated from the lower level of QuikTrip Center to Central Park Hall. With the additional room, there is sure to be something for everyone to enjoy.
One of the competitive exhibits, the Oklahoma State Sugar Art Show, will feature hundreds of intricately designed cakes for patrons to admire during the first weekend of the event. Many come from around the nation for a chance to display their talent and possibly earn awards.
Advanced tickets are currently available and offered until Sept. 7. They are four for $24. Advanced Ride Books are $10. For the very adventurous patrons, The Mega Ride Pass is available for $65 through Oct. 10.
For more information about the Tulsa State Fair, visit www.tulsastatefair.com.
Updated 09-16-2010
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