State fair enthusiasts get ready.

Thursday, August 02, 2001

State fair enthusiasts get ready. Friday’s the big day.

The Ohio State Fair runs Aug. 3-19, featuring 17 days of a spectacular midway, big-name entertainment, hundreds of exhibits and 4-H and FFA project shows.

Although a complete list is unavailable right now, several Lawrence County youth will be exhibiting at the state fair, said Laura Jane Murphy, county 4-H Extension agent.

Local livestock and vegetable growers, dog show regulars and horse show youth will take part in the Ohio fair, Ms. Murphy said.

Whether rain or shine, the Ohio State Fair once again promises fun and adventure for the entire family, organizers said.

Concert and Event Series

Relax and enjoy a concert or event in the air-conditioned Celeste Center.

– Ohio Lottery Cash Explosion Game Show, Aug. 3, Free, 7 p.m.

– Elvis Extravaganza Impersonator Contest, Aug. 4, Free, 7 p.m.

– Alan Jackson, Aug. 5, $27, 7 p.m.

– Jessica Andrews & Billy Gilman, Aug. 6, Free, 7 p.m.

– Boots Randolph, Aug. 7, Free, 1 p.m.

– 98 Degrees, Aug. 7, $22, 8 p.m.

– Cheap Trick, Aug. 8, Free, 7 p.m.

– Sammy Kershaw, Aug. 9, Free, 7 p.m.

– Mya, Aug. 10, Free, 7 p.m.

– The Association, The Buckinghams & The Classic Rock All Stars, Aug. 11, Free, 7 p.m.

– All-Ohio State Fair Band & Youth Choir, Aug. 12, Free, 7 p.m.

– Fred Hammond & The Radical for Christ Choir, Aug. 13, $10, 7 p.m.

– Alabama, Aug. 14, $20, 7 p.m.

– Sale of Champions Livestock Auction, Aug. 15, Free, 6 p.m.

– Point of Grace, Aug. 16, Free, 7 p.m.

– WAR & Tower of Power, Aug. 17, Free, 7 p.m.

– George Jones with special guest Bill Anderson, Aug. 18, $15, 7 p.m.

– The WNCI Morning Zoo & The Zoot Suits with special guests, The Menus, Aug. 19, Free, 1 p.m.

Tickets for paid shows can be purchased through Ticketmaster outlets, including Ohio Kroger stores. Concert tickets purchased before arriving at the Fair include free Fair admission.

Fine Arts Exhibit

The James M. Cox Fine Arts Center features the works of Ohio’s most talented professional and amateur artists. Thousands of dollars in prizes are awarded each year. Open 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. daily. Free.

Horse Shows

Horse lovers will not want to miss the Coliseum which hosts one of the greatest multibreed horse shows. Check the daily schedule for a complete listing of horse shows. Free.

Junior Fair

The Ohio State Fair hosts one of the largest junior fairs in the world. Thousands of participants showcase exhibits from horticulture to artwork to sewing. Check out their talents in the air-conditioned Youth Discovery Center and east end of the Rhodes Center. Open 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. daily. Free.

Livestock Competitions

The Ohio State Fair is continually recognized for having outstanding participation in livestock competitions. Award winning cattle, swine, poultry, goats, sheep, llamas and rabbits are shown in both junior and open classes throughout the Fair’s run. Consult the daily schedule for a complete listing of livestock competitions. Free.

 

Market Place Building (Bricker Multi-Purpose)

This air-conditioned building is home to hundreds of exhibits featuring a variety of novelties, jewelry, demonstration items, home remodelers, state agencies, attractions, specialty foods and a high-tech exhibit.

Ohio Farm Bureau

Presentations by the Ohio Farm Bureau will include topics such as the environment, food safety and milk processing. Located in the Ag/Hort Building.

Petting Zoo

You will be able to make new friends with exotic animals from all over the world at this favorite fair attraction. Not only will you pet many animals, you will gain a little knowledge of their lives. Come learn about camels, emus, llamas and a host of other animals. Open 10 a.m. to 11 p.m. Friday through Saturday and 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. Sunday through Thursday. Free.

KidStuff Stage (Free)

Hayworth’s Special Contests for Kids: Fairgoers ages 3-12 can show their stuff with the airplane toss, water balloon toss, bubble gum blowing, hula-hoop, marshmallow golf and milk slurp contests. Aug. 4-19.

T. Texas Terry: The emcee and Sheriff for the stage. He’s the comic king of western arts with rope spinning and whip cracking. Aug. 3-19.

Bob Whitcomb, World’s Strongest Juggler: Aug. 17-19.

Doggies of the Wild West: This comedy dog act has appeared on such shows as The Tonight Show with Jay Leno and The Late Show with David Letterman. August 3-16.

ShowPlace Stage (Free)

Wrestling Tournaments: Amateur wrestlers of all ages. Aug. 3 and 4.

Travis Fox: Travis is America’s No. 1 hypnotist due to his fun-loving approach with his volunteers. Aug. 5-19.

Reaganomics: This popular 80s group will have you dancing in the aisles. Aug. 11 at 8:30 p.m.

Ohio Stage (Free)

Ohio Christian Music Association: Aug. 3-10

All-Ohio Worship Services: Aug. 5, 12 & 19 at 9:30 a.m.

All-Ohio Clogging Showcase: Aug. 11

Multicultural Showcase: Aug. 12