INDIANA STATE FAIR
August, Indianapolis, Indiana
The arrival of the Great Indiana State Fair every August is like the sweet taste of summertime all over again. Originating in 1852 (the 6th oldest state fair in the nation), Indianapolis welcomes hundreds of thousands of visitors each summer to the state fairgrounds north of downtown. As a national leader in agriculture, the fair celebrates Indiana’s rich farm culture past, present and future every year.
The 2010 Indiana State Fair was the “Summer of Pigs,” spotlighting Indiana as the 5th largest pork producer in nation, a $3 billion industry for the state. Each year, the theme of the state fair represents one of Indiana’s agriculture assets. From tomatoes to pigs, each year’s theme is sure to bring Indiana residents together.
It wouldn’t be a state fair without livestock, sewing projects, and the hard work of Indiana’s youth. Children and teens from around the state submit their projects and animals for judging with the hopes of receiving the coveted Gold Merit Ribbon. In conjunction, the sale-of-champions auction of the 4-H livestock helps to support college funds, the purchase of future 4-H livestock projects and develop careers.
The Indiana State Fair is known for bringing some of the hottest acts. Rascal Flatts, KISS, Drake, Keith Urban, and Jeff Dunham have all made past appearances at the Hoosier Lottery Grandstand. Up-and-coming stars like Joe Nichols, The Band Perry, Bucky Covington, and Chuck Wicks have all performed on the Celebration Park Free Stage. And entertainment such as the “Kiss a Pig” contest, dance performances and kid-friendly shows are all offered throughout the fairgrounds at no cost.
Funnel cakes, cotton candy, smoked sausage, popcorn and everything deep fried are the notorious fair foods the fairgoers hate to love. Indiana residents and visitors alike flock to the fairgrounds for those mouth-watering treats that only come once a year. Unlike the notorious fair foods that fairgoers crave, the Indiana State Fair also offers alternative options for those looking for a nutritious treat. Established in 2010, the Farmers Market Café offers salads and sandwiches of fresh Indiana produce.
In 2010 the Indiana State Fair opened the International Pavilion to recognize and celebrate Indiana’s presence in the international community. “Bridges to Japan” allowed visitors to try authentic cuisine, experience performances and wander through exhibits of the country closely connected with the Hoosier state. The cultural experience is now an annual exhibit highlighting a different country each year.
From agriculture and entertainment to delicious food and international community, Indianapolis hopes to see you at the next Great Indiana State Fair!
For more information visit the Indiana State Fair at www.in.gov/statefair/fair/
Please take the time to share your views on the selections - there are comment input boxes on every page - or nominate a new event or festival if you think there is something important Top Events USA has missed.
Or simply write to us here at media@topeventsusa.com with your comments.
