What’s Your "It?"
I am here to help you find your “it” at the Missouri State Fair, whether “it” is concerts or corn dogs. The Missouri State Fair offers affordable, unique experiences for persons of all ages. Have you ever wondered what it takes to transform the 396-acre fairgrounds into a bustling destination of fun and excitement? Join me for a behind-the-scenes look into how the fair prepares for you and the other 350,000+ visitors. Once the fair arrives, hang on as I take you on an 11-day adventure jam-packed with fun. You may discover that you, too, just have to Go 4 It!
August 28
MOre Fun than Ever!
The 2008 Missouri State Fair was considered a success on several accounts including increased attendance over the previous fair. Most gratifying to the full time staff were the smiles on the faces of the fairgoers. The pleasant weather was a plus to the 11-day-festival, along with the quality of free entertainment. The staff certainly has their work cut out for them as they promise "MOre Fun than Ever!", the theme for the 2009 annual event. Dates will be August 13 to 23.
August 16
The Wildlife Wendy Show is for the Birds
Wildlife Wendy is no birdbrain when it comes to training birds! Fairgoers can enjoy an entertaining show during which Wendy's seven tropical birds will ride a miniature bicycle, scale a ladder and other amusing feats.
August 16
Fine Arts Building Home to a Variety of Artwork
Those who appreciate art should visit the Fine Arts Building which houses the selected entries from the Missouri 50 and Missouri Junior 50 art competitions. It is also home to an oaken section, a photography section, a porcelain section and the work stations of the artists in residence.
August 16
Cannon Lady has a Blast, and So Will You!
Fairgoers held their breath as the Cannon Lady was propelled over the Midway from a cannon Friday. This daring diva will be giving two shows daily now throughout the conclusion of the Fair.
August 16
Monkeying Around on the Midway
Two-year-old Tyler proudly showed me his prize today, an inflatable blue monkey nearly larger than him. There are a wide assortment of games on the Midway, including the ring toss and duck pond games.
August 16
Petting Zoo
This curious camel couldn't stop checking out my camera when I visited the petting zoo! The petting zoo features camel and pony rides. Fairgoers may also visit baby kangaroos, zebras, yaks, llamas, alpacas, cattle and goats.
August 16
Missouri Department of Conservation
A visit to the Missouri Department of Conservation Building is literally like a walk in the park. This building houses more than 25 different exhibits under the categories of wildlife, private lands, fisheries, hunter education, protection and forestry. Swing by the Conservation Building between 9 a.m. and 9 p.m. and check out native plants, the mobile aquarium and nature demonstrations.
August 16
Crash and Burn on the Fairgrounds
A burning car, a fleet of firemen and a stretcher loaded with a wounded rider normally do not add up to good news. No need to panic, the Missouri State Fair Fire Department enacted an extrication operation on Friday, sawing the doors and roof off a mock crash vehicle to extract a "wounded" passenger. The Missouri State Fair Fire Department is the only fully operational volunteer fire department in the nation.
August 15
No Splitting Hares in the Rabbit Barn
This Florida White Rabbit definitely lived up to her namesake of "Bodacious" this weekend when she racked up the "Best in Show" awards in the 4-H and Open Youth Rabbit competitions. There are more than 1,300 rabbits of 47 different breeds currently housed in the Poultry and Rabbit Barn.
August 15
Just Clowning Around
Reddy Eddy, a clown with the St. Louis Clown Club since 1976, was just clowning around Friday when he visited the Missouri State Fair for Jaycee Access Day. Eddy and about five other clowns entertained more than 1,200 people in the Jaycee group, then strolled around the fairgrounds to amuse other fairgoers and dine on cotton candy.
August 15
Noonday Parade
2008 Missouri State Fair Queen Whitney Wallace rode in her first official Missouri State Fair noonday parade Friday. Whitney shared a seat next to Sparky the Fire Dog and Smoky the Bear.
August 15
Artists in Residence
I got the opportunity to watch a blank canvas transform into an elaborate tribute to farmers Thursday. Mike Buesking of Springfield is one of the 5 artists selected by the Fine Arts Events Committe to showcase their talent during the Fair. Fairgoers can watch the artists in action every day between 9 a.m. and 6 p.m. as they work in mediums that include pottery, cements, colored pencil, watercolor and oil painting.
August 14
Wild About Science
Bubble, Bubble Toil and Trouble! This young scientist studied bubbles at the Wild Science Exhibit located in the Family Fun Center. Inquisitive young minds can experiment with scientific marvels such as the Balancing Act and the Velocity Tunnel.
August 14
Fireman Chuck
This puppet-driven fire truck extinguished frowns yesterday as it zipped through the fairgrounds. Luckily, Fireman Chuck didn't require a drivers license, as his bright red vehicle was operated via a remote control.
August 14
Lovely Llamas
I dropped by the Coliseum yesterday evening just in time to catch the llama show.
August 13
Fritters Stroll Fairgrounds
This darling duck could be seen waddling through the fairgrounds all day doling out hugs and dancing with children. The Fritters can be found strolling the fairgrounds each day of the fair. Don't forget to stop and give them a gigantic hug when you see them!
August 13
Honey, I'm Home...
Jim Hannibal, of Columbia, Mo., enjoyed a cinnamon flavored honey stick at the Missouri State Beekeepers Association booth, located in the Agriculture Building, today. The Beekeeper's booth houses bees wax lip balms and body creams as well as honey-based products such as ice cream.
August 13
Udderly Happy to be a Red Hat Lady
Diane Zinn of Sedalia was udderly happy to be a "Red Hat Lady" for Red Hat Ladies Day at the Missouri State Fair. Dressed as a bodacious bovine in a snazzy red hat, Zinn wanted to pay homage to Missouri's agricultural heritage.
August 13
Red Hat Lady Day
The Missouri State Fair is a sea of red and purple today as the Red Hat Ladies, a society of women who meet for tea dressed in red and purple, celebrated Red Hat Ladies Day. These refined red hatters were judged in a variety of categories, including cobblers, golf carts and, of course, red hats.
August 13
Draft Horse Hitches
Can you imagine that these were once the SUVs of 100 years ago? I enjoyed watching these elegant horses compete in last night's draft horse hitch show. The show will continue tonight at 6:00 p. m. in the Mathewson Exhibition Center.
August 13
Vocal Trash is a Treat for Your Ears
The trash cans, water bottles, and barrels used by Vocal Trash may seem more suitable for a landfill than in a band, but Vocal Trash has managed to make these unorthodox musical instruments the base of their energetic, industrial rock band. Vocal Trash bangs out rock from every genre and era, including funk, modern contemporary and even big band at the Touchstone Energy Stage daily.
August 12
Beef...It's What's For Dinner
My tastebuds perked up today when I smelled the creamed meatballs the CattleWomen were preparing. The Missouri Beef Industry and CattleWomen are hosting free cooking demonstrations daily. Swing by the Missouri Beef House if you would like to learn how to prepare some delicious, beef-based dishes. Bon Appetit!
August 12
Turbo the Robot
As I was exploring the fairgrounds today, Turbo the Robot beeped a greeting to me. This futuristic fellow can be found strolling the fairgrounds every day of the fair, and I found out he is sponsored by I-Land Internet Services.
August 12
Win Prizes at Missouri Lottery Area
If you're feeling lucky today, why don't you drop by the Missouri Lottery area and try your hand at a variety of different games to win cash prizes? The Lottery is next to the Historic Administration Building and will be open every day of the Fair.
August 12
Military Appreciation Day
Bill Watkins, 76, of Richmond, Mo., came down to the Fair for Military Appreciation Day. This veteran of the Korean War said he enjoys the whole atmosphere of the Fair. As part of Military Appreciation Day, the Fair will be offering free admission for veterans and active military, plus $1 off for family members.
August 12
FFA Building Houses Ag Exhibits
I got my daily dose of ag-education today at the FFA Building. This attraction includes chapter educational and horticulture booths, produce and field crop exhibits and an ag-mechanics area. You can visit the FFA Building every day of the fair between 9 a.m. and 9 p.m.
August 12
Children's Barnyard
If you enjoy the farm life, but are stuck in the city, then the Children’s Barnyard may be the place for you! This quaint red barn houses donkeys, puppies, turkeys, cows, pigs and other farm friends. There’s even an incubator that hatches baby chickens!
August 12
Motocross Competition
I'll bet you can't do this on your two-wheeler! These powerful motorcycles leapt over dirt hills and maneuvered sharp turns on the all-terrain track at the Dodge Arena Monday evening. Catch more racing action tonight when ATVs face-off at the Dodge Arena at 7 p.m.
August 12
Vroom...Vrooom
Even though she's only 3 years old, Lauren Bailey of Clinton, Mo. can already drive a monster truck with skill, just one of the many Midway attractions your tot may enjoy.
August 11
Here's to My Fine Feathered Friends
This Bearded White chicken seems more aptly dressed for the Alaskan tundra than the Missouri heat! This furry fowl is just one of more than 200 different varieties of chicken housed in the Poultry Barn right now along with ducks and geese. The Poultry Barn will be open to fairgoers until 9 p.m. daily.
August 11
Reach New Heights on the Ferris Wheel
Given that I'm quite petite, I took the opportunity to tower over throngs of people atop the Midway's Ferris Wheel. Can you spot me?
August 11
Missouri Association Championship Truck and Tractor Pull
You thought tractors were just meant to haul corn? Think again! These brawny tractors and trucks exerted all their horsepower to haul heavy drags around a track for the championship competition. Catch more of these muscled-up motors at the Pepsi Grandstand tonight at 7 p.m.
August 11
Having a Hay Day
I know just where to look if I ever need a hand with my farm! These strapping farmers flexed some muscle in the Super Farmer Contest today at 12:30. Traditional farm chore categories included hay bale throwing, egg-gathering and gate hanging.
August 11
Terri Clark and Jason Aldean Charm Fairgoers
Last night's Terri Clark and Jason Aldean concert drew large crowds. Clark and Aldean connected with the audience between songs with witty one-liners and rousing humor. Be sure to catch another must-see county duo on August 15, Sara Evans and Trent Tomlinson.
August 10
Green Means Go
Just as my legs were growing rubbery from exploring the fairgrounds, a John Deere tram drove by. The tram operates on three different routes each day of the Fair between 8 a.m. and 11:30 p.m.
August 10
Missouri State Fair Idol Competition
Becky McGinnis of Harrisonville belted out a toe-tapping ditty at Sunday's Idol competition. Each day a different set of singers will perform, and then a panel of judges will evaluate them in front of the crowd. The Missouri State Fair Idol Finals will take place Sunday, August 17 on the Bud Stage.
August 10
Fair Exhibits Interest Even the Youngest Fairgoers
I absolutely had to take a picture of this inquisitive toddler! One-year-old Brooke Larkin of Concordia enjoyed observing the snake exhibit at the Conservation Building Sunday afternoon.
August 10
IGX Interactive Game Experience
Next time mom tells you to go play outside, suggest a visit to the fair! Video game enthusiasts can play a variety of the latest games for free at the IGX tent, open every day of the fair.
August 10
I Can't Believe It's Not Butter!
If you were to leave me alone with a slab of butter, the result would be a very gooey mess slathered on top of a slice of bread. Bosworth residents Rob and Susan Wilson on the other hand sculpted this dairy diorama out of 400 pounds of unsalted butter. (It was very mooooving art!)
August 10
Civil War Day at the Woman's Building
Fairgoers can step back almost 150 years today and view artifacts from the "war between brothers" as the Missouri State Museum hosts Civil War Day at the Woman’s Building. The Museum will be back for Missouri’s State Capitols Day on Thursday, August 14 with exhibits capturing the history of our first state capitols.
August 10
Splash Down the White Water Ride
This hot ride will cool you off in a hurry! Enjoy a trip on the White Water Log Plume ride, open every day on the new and improved Midway.
August 10
The MRCA State Finals Rodeo
These brave cowboys and cowgirls roped calves and surmounted bucking horses to prevail in the MRCA State Finals Rodeo last night. If you’re interested in more rugged wranglers, be sure to check out the Dodge Champion Bull Riding in the Dodge Arena next weekend.
August 10
Blacksmiths Association of Missouri
The Blacksmiths Association of Missouri toiled in the heat of the forge and summer air to hammer iron into elaborate pokers, roses and even necklaces. BAM will be displaying their wares and showcasing their skills every day of the fair next to the Mathewson Exhibition Center.
August 10
Racing Pigs Hog the Crowds
I thought I would have to wait until pigs fly to find myself cheering on the likes of "Snoop Hoggy Hog" and "Sarah Jessica Porker." Actually, I merely needed to wait for them to run. Hendrick’s Racing Pigs Show is sponsored by Socket. Be sure to catch these swift swine every day of the fair next to the Coliseum.
August 9
Shenaniguns! Wild West Comedy!
Forget about Clint Eastwood and deadly duels! The only thang dangerous about this witty western is the side-splitting laughter you'll get from watching this comedy of hilarious stunts and clever dialogue! So grab your ten-gallon cowboy hat and rubber chicken, and catch this free entertainment piece every day of the fair!
August 9
Charlie Daniels Draws Many Fans
A whole lotta hootin’-n- hollerin’ took place at the Pepsi Grandstand last night with the concert from Shooter Jennings, .38 Special and Charlie Daniels. If you’re in the mood for some boot-scootin’ music and cold beer, catch the other upcoming concerts including tonight's Josh Turner and Pat Green. The Box Office is open 9 to 9!
August 9
From Tree Stump to Grizzly Bear
A chainsaw and a hunk of oak wood is all Stacey Robinson needs to carve eagles, bears and other woodsy creatures. Stacey has been carving wild-life oriented creatures, especially cowboys and Indians, for more than 23 years. Watch her carve these whimsical chainsaw creatures, and then bid for your favorite at the auction next Saturday at noon at the Touchstone Energy Stage.
August 9
These Flowers Don't Need Water
You don’t need a green thumb to display these roses in your window box. I found a booth selling these "wilt-proof" wooden roses next to the Varied Industry Building. This is just one of many quaint independent vendors that can be found on the fairgrounds.
August 9
Dale Jones Juggles with One Hand
I must confess, the last time I attempted to juggle I ended up with a very sore black eye. Dale Jones, on the other hand, is able to juggle large flowerpots with ONE hand! (I should add that there's not a black eye on him.) Check out Dale's jazzy juggling this week at the fair!
August 9
The Fair Director Enjoys His Sweets!
Fair Director Marion Lucas indulged his sparkling white sweet tooth yesterday while visiting MoDOT's beautiful Highway Gardens. Can you imagine how much the deep-fried oreo cookies and funnel cakes must make Marion grin?
August 8
2008 Fair Queen Crowned
"And there she is... walking on air." Miss Whitney Wallace of Henry County was crowned 2008 Missouri State Fair Queen. Contestants were judged in talent, speech, interview and evening gown. The Fair Queen will make appearances across Missouri, speaking to groups about agriculture and judging queen pageants.
August 8
4-H Building Displays Many Exhibits
Matthew and Steven Stollings, both age 11 of Eldon, picked out their dream birthday cakes as they gazed in awe at the cake decorating exhibit located in the 4-H Building. The building houses about 400 award-winning exhibits from 100 different categories. Check out home-spun crafts that include scrapbooking, photographs and baked goods every day of the fair from 9 a.m. until 9 p.m.
August 8
Corn-Shucking Pros
Get outta the kitchen, mama! The fastest little corn-huskers in Missouri shucked corn today during a contest at the Kids Stage. There will be daily contests at 2:00 at this location...marshmallow golf, whistling, a spelling, hula-hooping and much more!
August 8
Anastasini Circus Reaches New Heights
Fear of heights is not listed in the job description of this contortionist with the Anastasini Circus. The Circus is full of humor, heights and everything nice, and it is dazzling the audiences. Fairgoers can enjoy this free entertainment piece three times daily during the State Fair.
August 8
Parade Kicks Off Opening Day
Crowds of fairgoers gathered to watch Captain Cupcake, a tractor procession and decorated floats parade through the fairgrounds. My only complaint was that Captain Cupcake was not edible!
August 7
Carrie McQueen is Someone You Can Look Up To!
Carrie McQueen towered over the landscape of fairgoers today as she strolled through the fairgrounds and juggled bowling pins. You, too, will have an opportunity to look up to the 9-foot-3 leggy lady every day of the fair.
August 7
Ronald McDonald is Lovin’ the Missouri State Fair
Children of all ages were “lovin’ it“ as the national McDonald’s mascot, Ronald McDonald wowed the crowd with magic tricks during his first-ever appearance at the Missouri State Fair. This smiling children’s icon will host two appearances daily at the Kids Stage through August 10, with a free autograph session afterwards. The Charlie Marshall family of Sedalia sponsored his appearance.
August 7
Missouri State Fair Enjoys Grand Opening Day
Hundreds of fair fans eagerly piled into the Midway today when the fair opened its gates. If you didn’t make it down to the fair today, don’t fret, there are still 10 more fun-packed days left at the fair, so Go4 it!
August 6
Welcome to the Missouri State Fair
The food vendors are cooking. The rides are running. The entertainment is geared-up to perform. All that's missing from the Missouri State Fairgrounds is your face. Gates open bright and early tomorrow. See you there!
August 1
Wheeee...The Carnival Rides are Coming!
Strap on your safety bar, the rides for the mile-long Midway are arriving. Can you believe that these trucks hold Ferris Wheels,Tilt-a-Whirls and other carnival delights?
July 31
Buy Missouri at this Year's Fair
Workers had veggies on their mind this week while putting up shelves, booths and even a mini barn to house the fruit, vegetables and other locally produced goods that will be a part of the Farmers’ Market in the Agriculture Building at the Fair. The Market will shout BUY MISSOURI, as all products will be from our Show-Me state. The Missouri Department of Agriculture, Department of Conservation, Farmers’ Market Association and Missouri Forest Products Association have all collaborated to make it possible. Add 'Farmer's Market' to your grocery list and shop for Missouri products at this year's State Fair!
July 24
No Horsing Around
Young horsemen ages 8-19 will saddle up this weekend for the 4-H/FFA Horse show on July 24-27, just one of a series of horse shows taking place at the 2008 Missouri State Fair.
And there was no “horsing around” last Thursday morning when Dr. Treese inspected horses to ensure that they were healthy enough to trot, gallop and compete in last weekend’s Missouri State Fair Western Showdown.
Treese inspects more than 1,000 horses a year for the equine competitions that take place shortly before and during the weeks of the fair in Sedalia. Treece enjoys cultivating the network of horse enthusiasts that visit the competitions each year.
The 4-H/FFA Horseshow is free to the public. Check out the premium guide for more information on this and upcoming horseshows.
July 23
Building Up the Fair
I was licking my chops thinking about all the wonderful foods and beer that will be served in just a couple of weeks at the Fair. This week carpenters have been hard at work getting the All American Beer Garden & Grill spic-and-span. They are installing a new roof and a 16x16 foot platform for the Budweiser projection big-screen. Although I was not among the throng of workers toiling away with a hammer this week throughout the fairgrounds, I can guarantee that very soon you will find me milling amongst Fair attendees with a hamburger in one hand and a Budweiser in the other.
July 22
Calling All Babies
The conference room at the Fair’s administrative office looked like a baby’s idea of paradise as items donated by local Sedalia Wal-Mart arrived for the new Baby Changing and Feeding Area that will be available at this year’s fair. The donated items, totaling about $300, included diapers, baby formula and other childcare necessities. Fair Director Marion Lucas added the baby area in an effort to provide a valuable service to families. Moms and dads, rest assured that you now have a clean, private place to go when Baby Junior says feed me or change me! The air-conditioned center will also house new entertainment called Wild Science, over 30 interactive games for children and youth to enjoy, as well as new handicapped accessible restrooms.
July 17
Lt. Gov. Kinder Visits Fairgrounds
It was a fair day to talk about the Fair last Thursday when the press gathered under the shade trees next to the MEC Building for a press conference with Lt. Gov. Peter Kinder.
Fair Director Marion Lucas opened the conference with an explanation of this year’s “Go 4 It” theme.
Deputy Director of Agriculture Matt Boatright then talked about the Fair’s agricultural emphasis.
Lt. Gov. Kinder delivered an overview of the 2008 Fair schedule and attractions, and the Fair’s mission to offer affordable family fun in light of a faltering economy.
July 9
New Stairs for Historic Admin. Building
I grabbed my hard hat and strolled over to the Historic Administration Building this week where workers are installing a new outdoor stairway. The building will be open to the public during the fair and will house the parking and security offices as well as an information booth. The Historic Administration Building was built in 1926. It is now used year-round by the Missouri State Fair Foundation (Though I don't believe they are taking the stairs right now!).
July 3
Pumping Up Affordable Family Fun
My inner five-year-old was definitely jumping for joy today when I saw the latest addition of free entertainment that will be available at this year’s Missouri State Fair. The Charlie Marshall Family of Sedalia, an important supporter of the Missouri State Fair for many years, has donated playground equipment, valued in excess of $25,000, to the fairgrounds. By the end of the summer the playground area, part of the newly established Kids Zone located west of the MEC Building, will include a sitting area with picnic tables. Weary parents can rest while their kids scale the monkey bars. The equipment will be officially unveiled during the opening ceremony at 10 a.m. August 7. Stay tuned!
June 23
Missouri State Fair Rewards Your Effort
I stumbled into one of our storerooms last week to find the entry department delving into a ceiling-high tower of boxes, counting and sorting the prize ribbons that will be awarded to a select number of lucky participants at the upcoming Missouri State Fair.
The entry department began ordering ribbons and plaques for the fair’s competitions in February, and have finally finished processing a whopping 22,000 ribbons and 1,000 plaques. Among the larger groups of competitions for which ribbons are ordered are the livestock competitions. Categories comprise beef, sheep, swine, dairy cattle, goats, llamas, dogs, poultry, rabbits and horses. The entry department has projected that between 300 and 1,500 animals will be entered into each of the various livestock categories.
June 14
Early Risers Line Up for Tickets
While many of us were hitting the snooze button, these fair fanatics hit the box office as soon as it opened at about 7:20 a.m Saturday morning. These early birds definitely got the metaphorical “worm,” as some individuals bought as many as 35 tickets at a time. Feel free to swing by the box office between 12 and 6:00 p.m., Monday through Friday to get your tickets. I, personally, did not want to change out of my flannel robe and bunny slippers, so I chose to order tickets online.
June 13
Pumpkins, Horses and Pies, Oh My...
Rest assured that you’ll be able to enter your pumpkins or goats in the competitions at the 2008 Missouri State Fair, thanks in-part to the superintendents who gathered for their annual meeting on Thursday, June 12. The Fair staff met with these dedicated individuals to help ensure that competitions scheduled during the fair would run as smoothly as possible. The superintendents will be in charge of organizing nearly 6,000 exhibitors who will compete and showcase their goods in various categories, including Home Economics, Agriculture, and even fiddling.
June 13
Countdown To Corndogs...
After the superintendent meeting, things became more relaxed at the annual Kick-Off Party. About 300 guests enjoyed classic fair cuisine, including snow cones, corn dogs and popcorn. Enthusiasm for the upcoming fair was further generated by attractions like the Rhodesian Ridgeback dogs and carnival games. (Photo donated by Randy Kirby of the Sedalia News-Journal)
June 13, 2008
Herreee…Herreee…Get your tickets!
Trying to plan your family vacation, but faced with a thin wallet? Go 4 affordable, family fun at the Missouri State Fair. Concert and Dodge Arena event tickets go on sale tomorrow, June 14, bright and early at 7 in the morning at the fair’s box office located on the fairgrounds! Save $2 on every $8 adult admission ticket when you buy in advance at the box office, or at participating Missouri Orscheln Farm & Home, O’Reilly Auto Parts or Break Time stores before August 7. Can’t make it out to the gates? Then order tickets online.
June 13, 2008
Countdown...the Fair is Almost Here!
The 2008 Missouri State Fair is almost here! Grab your kids, call in sick, don your fanny pack and get ready to feast on cotton candy, trek through the house of mirrors and tower above the Sedalia landscape on the Ferris Wheel. While your at it, use your "Adam Wainwright" pitching skills on the ring toss game and win your sweetie a gigantic stuffed animal. Why don’t you go ahead and check out the calendar to plan your visit?
Ali Bakeer
Ali will be capturing all things “it” at this year’s Missouri State Fair, from preparation to execution.
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