Tulare County Fair prepares to open
TULARE, Calif. (KFSN) -- The south valley is gearing up for a weekend of food, fun and entertainment for the whole family.
This year's theme is "The bounty of our county" -- celebrating the farms, food and culture of the south valley. Last year the fair had a record attendance. Over the 5 day span more than 100 thousand people walked through the gates..
This may be the 97th year, but fair organizers say they still have new and exciting rides and attractions. The highlight of the midway will be the new Giant Wheel, standing 110-feet tall, weighing 250,000 pounds and boasting 88,000 light bulbs. Also new this year for thrill-seekers is the zombie-themed haunted house. Old favorites will return, including Shockwave, the massive Big Splash flume ride, the Wave Swinger and the Olympic Bobsled roller coaster.
Young fair-goers can experience the new Pony Express, which allows children to choose to ride a horse or a carriage around train tracks. Also new is the Happy Swing, a classic swing set amplified to a new level of fun, and the Chopper Hopper, a helicopter ride that lets kids be the pilot.
Free with admission entertainment and performers include:
Hairy, wild racing pigs from the foothills of Northern California racing daily during the fair.
Panning for gold.
The Tractor Pull on Wednesday, Sept. 14. Gates open at 6 p.m.; show begins at 7 p.m.
Free musical entertainment will include Left of Centre, the official house band at Toby Keith's bar and grill in Las Vegas.
Street Drum Corps will perform daily, along with performances by The Cutest Show on Earth, Jest in Time Circus, puppeteers, and comedy jugglers Something Ridiculous.
"Welcome to the Jungle," a display of exotic animals based on The Jungle Book
"Wild Science," an exhibit consists of dozens of highly interactive exhibits and activities that allow kids to explore the amazing world of science and technology.
Steve Bayner, hypnotist, will perform nightly and local bands will entertain fairgoers throughout the run of the fair.
A free Christian concert will be offered from 6 to 10 p.m. on Thursday, featuring performances by local ensembles, including a family of 12 from Fresno.
Family Value Day is Thursday, Sept. 15, offering reduced price admission and $2 food items. Admission is $4 before 4 p.m. on Family Value Day (online offer only).
