Vermont State Fair starts next week

Summer is coming to a close, but in the Green Mountain State, its biggest event has yet to arrive.

The Vermont State Fair will once again return to Rutland this Friday, Aug. 30 through Sunday, Sept. 8.

In its 168th year, the fair will offer everything from rides to shows to animals and food.

Highlight musical performances this year include country singer Travis Tritt with special guest Greg Burroughs on Saturday, Sept. 7 at 7:30 p.m.

On the Sugarhouse Stage a number of other entertainers will perform, such as Kheegan Nolan, Nicole Murphy, Adam Springer and The Grand Central.

Other big music events will include Gospel Night at the Fair on Wednesday and a Z-Factor Karaoke Contest on Tuesday.

For those who would rather see more action than singing, the fair will offer a number of exciting events.

Friday will kick off the week 4 Cylinder Demolition Derby at 7:30 p.m., and the Vermont State Demolition Derby will be held at 5 p.m. on Sunday, Sept. 8. In between and there will be another demolition derby at 7:30 p.m. on Sunday, Sept. 1.

Tuesday afternoon and Friday, Sept. 6 will be the tractor pulls at 1 p.m. and 6:30 p.m. respectively, and Wednesday afternoon will see a harness racing show.

The Daredevils Unlimited Wall of Death will put on a few shows, as will the Great Little Bear Show and Rosaire’s Racing Pigs. Ditsy the Clown will be on hand, horsemanship will be shown off and the Extension Master Gardeners will display their green thumbs. For the little ones and adults alike will also be a petting zoo, a snake display and a model circus, among other offerings.

In between the entertainment will be a slew of smaller events, from an ox pulling contest to square dancing. The usual agricultural exhibits and contests will take place, including culinary arts judging, various animal shows and a giant pumpkin judging.

Don’t forget the rides.

Coleman Bros. Shows will have the midway set up with rides ranging from gentle to thrilling, with a number of discount days from $20 unlimited wristbands to $1 rides.

Admission, which is not included with all grandstand shows, ranges from free to $15 depending on the day. Children under six are free every day, and seniors are $5 daily and $1 on Tuesday.

Season passes are available for $35 for adults, $30 for seniors and $25 for children. More ticketing and other information can be found at the fair’s website at vermontstatefair.net.