AT SEMO DISTRICT FAIR, THERE'S PLENTY TO DO

There's nothing quite like the SEMO District Fair. It's the premiere event in Southeast Missouri, drawing more than 100,000 fans each year.

Perhaps the secret to the fair's perennial success is the fact it offers something for everyone.

Do you like big-name entertainment? Country superstars Waylon Jennings, Billy Ray Cyrus and Terri Clark will entertainment fairgoers this year.

And don't forget such favorites as the tractor pull, horse show and demolition derby. They pack the grandstand each and every year.

Hungry? Many go to the fair just to sample the wide variety of tasty treats. There are funnel cakes, cotton candy, sausage sandwiches with all the fixin's, giant corn dogs, taffy, potato curls, candied apples and so much more.

Ready for a thrill? A variety of carnival rides and games for all ages brings many to the fair. What makes it all the more affordable is the fact the fair sponsors several "bracelet" nights during the week. That's especially appreciated by parents of several children.

Family entertainment and affordability continues to be a hallmark of the SEMO District Fair. Admission and parking each remain at a reasonable $2. And opening day -- tomorrow -- remains a free day at the fair.

There are a number of free attractions of activities each year that are also appealing including R&R Tent Activities, a chain-saw artist, a camel hitch, a circus thrill show, an exotic petting zoo, "Farmer for a Day" and much more. And don't forget the pageants -- from babies to young ladies.

The fair also offers city folk a chance to see animals and agriculture up close. The livestock arrives on Tuesday, and children can pet a cow that provides their milk or take a close look at those famous Missouri mules. Did you know there were that many varieties of chickens? Some could compete with the fanciest of exotic birds. It's an eye-opening experience.

Businesses throughout Southeast Missourian will entertain and delight fairgoers with their wares -- the wackier the better. It's all part of the experience. And the fair wouldn't be complete without a stop at the Conservation Department's shelter to view the fish and animals captured from the region. The animals are released at the fair's end.

And of course the Arena Building will be filled with all kinds of sumptuous baked goods, handmade works of art and homegrown beauties -- all competing for blue ribbons. The fair's agricultural roots remain as strong today as they were at its start. This year marks the 144th edition of the SEMO District Fair. That in itself is an incredible feat made possible through a virtual army of dedicated volunteers.

And don't forget to stop by the Southeast Missourian booth in front of the Arena Building Sunday and Monday to sign a scroll that will be included in the YELL Foundation's time capsule. The Tuesday evening ceremony to bury the time capsule should also prove a great addition to the festivities.

The tastes, sights and sounds of the SEMO District Fair never disappoint faithful fairgoers.