Senior Voice -

Fair time means food, exhibits, contests, rides and entertainment all packed into one destination that you can enjoy with friends and family. In addition to traditional exhibits and contests showcasing agriculture, livestock, homemaking and crafts skills, along with headliner music and other entertainment acts, Alaska’s regional fairs each offer their own twist and are a great way to get out and enjoy the Alaskan summer as fall approaches. Check with your senior center about transportation and group trips. Here are some details on each fair:

Tanana Valley State Fair, Fairbanks. Aug. 2-11

Senior Admission: $5 or $20 for a “season ticket.” This year’s Senior Luncheon is Wed., Aug. 7, noon to 2 p.m. It’s free and seniors age 60 and older and their caregiver get into the fair free all day on that date (bring ID for proof of age). Sponsored by Fred Meyer and hosted by Midnight Sun Chef’s Assoc. Other events: Antique tractor and pedal tractor pull, mud bog racing, Largen Barn Dance contradance with live caller Aug. 11, 6-9 p.m., hypnotist, “Fairbanks has Talent” contest (featuring local celebrities), pie eating contest, barbecue cookoff, open bakeoff, fireworks, much more. For information and schedule, call (907) 452-3750 or visit http://www.tananavalleyfair.org.

Kenai Peninsula State Fair, Ninilchik. Aug 16-18

Senior admission: $5; Kids free on Aug. 16 courtesy of BP. Gates open daily at 9:30 a.m. Family-style rodeo, parade, racing pigs, horse show, livestock, quilts and other exhibits, “Alaska’s Got Talent”, line dancers, much more. For information, call (907) 567-3670 or visit http://www.kenaipeninsulafair.com.

Alaska State Fair, Palmer. Aug. 22 – Sept. 2

Senior (age 65 and older) admission: $8 weekdays, $9 weekends (discount of $2 if tickets is pre-purchased before Aug. 22). Other pricing packages are available. Giant cabbage weigh-off, antique tractor pull, demolition derby, rodeo, petting zoo, much more. Comprehensive schedule, event descriptions and other information available at http://www.alaskastatefair.org or call 745-4827.

Kodiak Rodeo and State Fair, Kodiak. Aug. 31 – Sept. 1

Livestock, vegetables, flowers, baking, canning, arts and craft contests and exhibits, boot race, calf scramble, hay rides, petting zoo, much more. Visit the Kodiak Rodeo and State Fair Facebook page for info and updates or call 487-4440 (message), 539-2453 or 654-2869.