Kentucky State Fair 105

Country and Concert Entertain at the 2010 Kentucky State Fair Main Stage Series

2010-01-28T11:47:00.000-08:00

Three of the four Main Stage Series acts highlight the first round of concert announcements for the 2010 Kentucky State Fair. The 11-day fair will feature performances by Sugarland, Jeff Dunham and Rascal Flatts.

Jennifer Nettles and Kristian Bush, better known as Sugarland, will perform on opening night of the Kentucky State Fair, Thursday, Aug. 19. After breaking onto the national music scene five years ago, the multiple award-winning duo has recorded hits like “Baby Girl, “All I Wanna Do” and “Stay.” The latter song propelled Sugarland to multiple Grammy Awards in 2009 for Best Country Performance by a Duo or Group and Best Country Song. Ticketing information and supporting acts will be released at a later date.

Rascal Flatts, set to close the Kentucky State Fair in Freedom Hall on Sunday, Aug. 29, has released 24 singles on the Billboard Hot Country charts, including 11 No. Ones. In the band’s nine-year career, the trio has amassed 32 American Music Association, Country Music Television and Academy of Country Music Awards. Ticketing information and supporting acts will be released at a later date.

The crowds will turn their cheers into laughs when Jeff Dunham takes the stage, Saturday, Aug. 21. Dunham, former American Comedy award winner for Funniest Male Stand-Up Comic, takes on personalities of a Hispanic pepper, a brash old man and a beer-drinking NASCAR fan, all in the name of comedy. Dunham achieved enormous success following his record-breaking draw of 6.6 million tuning in to watch his Comedy Central Christmas special, “Jeff Dunham’s Very Special Christmas Special.” Ticketing information will be released at a later date.

The 2009 Kentucky State Fair enjoyed record-breaking crowds, with headliners Journey and Taylor Swift each playing to enthusiastic, sold-out crowds and helping increase concert attendance by 95 percent over 2008 and concert revenue by 100 percent.

The 2010 fair will run from Aug. 19-29 and tickets will go on sale at the Kentucky Exposition Center Ticket Office, Kentucky International Conventional Center Ticket Office, all Ticketmaster outlets and online at Ticketmaster.com.

For more information and continued updates on the 2010 Kentucky State Fair, visit the official website at www.kystatefair.org.

A Day in the Life of a State Fair Media Intern

2009-08-29T15:20:00.000-07:00

We are the only people we know who got paid to Facebook, Twitter and MySpace this summer. We ran the updates, uploaded the pictures and wrote the blogs. We also wrote press releases, media advisories and aided in the creation of the brochure and Daily Schedule, all to get you excited about coming to the Kentucky State Fair!

We are the Kentucky State Fair media interns. Since May we have been working inside Freedom Hall to get the word out about the rides, the food, the exhibits, the shows and the concerts. It’s hard for us to believe the Fair is almost over! But it’s also nice to think that maybe we helped get some of the crowds out here to experience the Kentucky State Fair, who might have otherwise stayed at home.

Even though most of the people on Facebook, MySpace and Twitter only know us under the moniker ‘KY State Fair,’ we have gotten to know Fair fans pretty well over the summer. We know what your favorite Fair foods and concert memories are. We know what you like best about the Fair and what you would like to improve. That’s what our social networking duties were – to make sure that this was YOUR Kentucky State Fair.
While we know about all of you, it’s only right that you learn who we are.

I’m Ali Sumner, an incoming senior at Western Kentucky University. Originally from Lexington, Ky., I had only been to the Kentucky State Fair once or twice for concerts. So, needless to say the onslaught of livestock, deep-fried fair food, outstanding entertainment and ribbon-winning entries were enough to make this city girl a fan of the Fair for years to come. Pursuing my degree in News/Editorial Journalism led me to a media internship with the State Fair Board this summer. My interest in photojournalism also made me one of the many Fair photographers for the Facebook page and Kentucky State Fair Web site.

I am Tabitha Hodges, and I am an incoming senior at Bellarmine University where I am earning a degree in Political Science. I am from Louisville and grew up coming to the Fair. It was always the last thing my family and I did before going back to school. When I began looking into marketing internships for the summer, I knew that working with the State Fair Board would be a perfect fit. I worked with Ali on many of the writing projects that would get other people as excited about the Fair as I am every year.

You may have seen our work online and in the papers, but you could have also heard us at the Fair doing the daily announcements or seen us taking notes and snapping pictures at the exhibits. We have certainly had a blast this summer, so we hope that you had just as much fun at the Kentucky State Fair as we did.

Like the way our job description sounds? If you’re a college student looking to pursue a career in public relations, marketing, advertising or journalism, this is the place you want to be next summer! Apply with the media department early next year and hopefully you’ll be writing these and other awesome blogs as your job with the Kentucky State Fair!

A Day in the Life of a Food Vendor

2009-08-28T14:58:00.000-07:00

The sun is getting higher in the sky and that means it’s almost lunchtime. Any moment hungry fairgoers will line up requesting my mouth-watering meals and thirst-quenching drinks.

Layers of onions and red peppers are ready on the grill, simmering with the sausage, bratwurst, and burgers. A cornucopia of scents lures fairgoers to my cart. Even patrons on a diet second-guess themselves. They know that they will walk away a winner with a perfectly grilled delight in each hand.

Just because I don’t have to work to get customers over to my cart, doesn’t mean my work is easy. A line full of hungry fairgoers means I am working double. Dipping and frying corndogs, swirling ice cream in a cone and layering the right amount of toppings on a burger all takes a lot of skill and perfect timing.

Visitors may say they come to the Kentucky State Fair for the rides, shopping and educational exhibits, but don’t listen to them. All of us food vendors know that people from all around the United States swarm Louisville in August for the taste of deep-fried perfection on a stick. Where else can you find such delicacies as pork-butt on a stick or a pineapple whip or a funnel cake topped with chocolate and Bavarian cream?

What makes this job worth it is not that we can make a meal high in calories, but that we can make a meal high in satisfaction. We know that when you come to the Fair, all diets are off and that what matters is food that tastes good while you’re having the time of your life.

As the lines taper off, we purveyors of deep-fried creations can take a brief rest. We clean up from the last rush and step out in to some much needed air. By the time we have rested and replenished our supply of French fries, corn cobs, and sweet iced tea, it’s almost dinnertime.

For the rest of the evening we will be feeding a new bunch of people their Fair food fantasies. I’m also sure we will see some familiar faces returning for one more taste before tomorrow morning when real-life begins again and they remember the diet they forgot all about today.

A Day in the Life of a Balloon Master

2009-08-27T15:49:00.000-07:00

Although the atmosphere is quite noisy with the hustle and bustle of the Fair, this is our studio, our playground of sorts. We bend and twist and shape and form until – “ta-da” – our creature is complete.

We are artists of a very different breed. We don’t make our sculptures out of clay or stone or even butter like those other State Fairs, but instead we are Balloon Masters. We contort our creations from just air and rubber – but what we create is quite spectacular.

Old Macdonald’s Farm may not have been as lightweight as ours but we sure do have the animals. Here a pig, there a donkey, everywhere an inflatable creature.

You’ll E-I-E-I-Ooh & Aah at our bright green and yellow inflatable tractor as well as our not-so-wet duck pond and our barnyard backdrop, complete with a rooster nesting in the hay. We’re not exactly sure what will come next in our life-like farm, but you can find out as the days pass on.

“If I were a sheep, where would I fit?”

Day by day, as the space begins to shrink, we determine just what comes next in our scene. We’ll improvise a honeycomb swarmed by bees and then a pair of pigs sitting in a mud pile. Every once in a while, a fairgoer requests their favorite farm friend and we try to add it to our list.

Taking a break between our sheep and silo we teach the youngsters who’ve gathered around how to make a balloon animal of their own. The excitement on their faces grows as their thin, colorful balloon turns into a puppy with every twist and turn we show them. They walk off, their chests puffed up as they carry their creation around the Fair – they’ve gotten a taste of the artistry!

No matter what animal or creation we choose to contort next, it’s sure to be unique! And it’s sure to use a whole bunch of balloons! By the time this barnyard scene is complete – we’ll have used over 15,000 balloons – now that’s a lot of hot air!

A Day in the Life of Freddy Farm Bureau

2009-08-26T14:50:00.000-07:00

You can recognize me by the classic garb of a farmer. Faded blue jeans, a denim shirt and my Kentucky Farm Bureau patch compliments the red handkerchief around my neck. Some people have hiding sposts, while I have a come-out-and-see-me spot on top of a haystack surrounded by a white-picket fence. I look out as the fairgoers come in droves, they’re eating their funnel cakes and taking in the shows and then they spot me!

Not only am I one of the most famous Kentucky State Fair guests, but I’m also the largest.

Freddy Farm Bureau’s the name and I’m one of the first attractions visitors see when entering the Fair, sitting right outside of Freedom Hall. Each passerby gets a big smile and a “How are you folks doing?” Nobody has been able to resist my charms since my first appearance in the 1950s.

The kids are excited about visiting me, even if they are a little shy at first.

“Have you seen my animals in the West Hall?”

I get a curious nod from the tiniest of toddlers and a hesitant wave from very timid little ones.

Some of the older kids are a little baffled at how I can talk without moving my forever-grinning mouth.

“Do you see us?”
“Yes, you have a green shirt on and your pal has a yellow shirt on.”
“How do you see us?”
“With my eyes, of course! How do you see me?”

They also like joking with me once they know that I can respond to their comments.

“You have big feet,” a small redheaded girl says.
“They are a size 31, and my socks are a size 38,” I tease back.

The kids all wave and say goodbye as they head off on their adventures around the Fair. Parents and grandparents alike bring their little ones in strollers to say hello to me. You can tell the adults want face-time with me just as much as the children.

I’ve been adding magic to the Kentucky State Fair for more than 50 years from my perch and it never gets tiresome.

Familiar faces return year after year and I’ve watched as young children have children of their own. The adults who stop by to see me seem to reminisce, while I know the inquisitive children who cock their heads in wonderment will return 10, 20, even 30 years from now just to catch a glimpse of me.

The fair just wouldn’t be the same without me, Freddy Farm Bureau, the timeless tradition.

“Have fun, and come back and see me next year!”

A Day in the Life of a Wristband

2009-08-25T17:03:00.000-07:00

With me, you’re a VIP. I’m the most coveted piece of paper this side of Freedom Hall. You get onto all the rides, big or small, with me wrapped around your wrist. And for just $24 (and $12 on Kiddie Day Friday) I can provide you an entire day’s worth of screams, shrills and laughs.

I’m the all-important wristband.

Sure I ride the teacups – I spin and watch as the turquoises, oranges and purples mix together into a teacup frenzy of fun! Next, take me on a ride down the fun slide, with one, two, three dips and away we go! I dip on the Dragon Wagon and get scrambled on the Sizzler.

“Can we please go on Starship Area 51?”

I love spinning in the gravity-free zone in this multi-colored, UFO ride. As I wait for you to regain your balance, I’m living the perfect life. We head off to Feverball, a glowing pendulum of shrieks that not only sways back and forth but spins me in circles – what a thrill!

Let’s cool off on the bumper boats before we maneuver through the Ogre’s Castle. Then take me on the pirate ship and the Ferris wheel – I never get tired of the dips, flips and twirls.

Take me for a spin with the bumper cars or test me out on the swings – I love them all!

Although I won’t be able to get you all the cotton candy, funnel cakes and lemonades – I would love to get close to those delectable treats between the Dizzy Dragons and the carousel.

“Oh, oh! Win me one of those prizes at the game booth – just pop those bright balloons, and ‘ta-da’ you win a bear!”

I’m snuggled up close to your cuddly prize and I’ve just about worn out the rides until we spot Chang, with its twisted, tangled steel that sends fairgoers into adrenaline overload.

“You don’t think I can handle it? Oh, I can do it all – bring it on!”

I’m the pass for non-stop fun, but I also prove to be a great deal! I get you unlimited access to the Midway rides and Six Flags Kentucky Kingdom, so buy me now through Aug. 27 and also on Aug. 30, or (if you’re a tiny tike 12 years and under) buy a child wristband for $12 on Friday, Aug. 28. I’m just itching to get on these awesome rides in the Thrillway!

The Man behind the Melons

2009-08-24T13:58:00.000-07:00

A 929-pound pumpkin.

A 175-pound watermelon.

Who’s behind these freakishly large crops? A man by the name of Mr. Mudd. And he’s got the market cornered at the Kentucky State Fair for largest melon – he’s been taking the blue ribbon home for that contest eight years running.

Frank Mudd of Flaherty, Ky. said his pumpkins, one weighing nearly 900 pounds and the other weighing over 929 pounds, could yield nearly 1,000 pumpkin pies. But that’s not why he grows them.

He uses hardly any fertilizer when growing his giant produce, but instead makes his own compost, made of trash and leaves.

As he shakes the hand of contest superintendent and former Fair board member, J. Robert Miller, in his bright green and yellow John Deere cap, Mudd seems all too humble to be the decorated grower of such a fine harvest.

A Day in the Life of a Fairbear

2009-08-24T13:50:00.000-07:00

10:08 a.m.

I zip up the fuzzy brown suit with my human hand before I slip into the paws that will soon be handing out shakes and high-fives. Then I pop on my big, bear head and everything gets dark. But it doesn’t matter what it’s like on the inside because on the outside, I’m a Fairbear. I’m the distributor of laughs, the epitome of fun, the titan of the Thrillway, the colossus of buffoonery.

10:59 a.m.

It’s almost time for my entrance on the Kidz Biz stage. The song “The Bare Necessities” from “The Jungle Book” beckons me out to greet my tiny admirers.

Through the small viewing space in the mask, I can see that some of the kids aren’t sure what to do. Do they run up and say hello? Stay with their parents and watch from a distance? Or get as far away from the big, brown bear as possible?

A small swarm of kids timidly come forward, some give me high-five’s, while others poke at the costume and some want to give me a big bear hug.

11:06 a.m.

Parents gather around like the paparazzi, taking pictures of their children with the Fairbear. Maybe this will hit TMZ by next week. In this suit, I’m a parent’s perfect photo op. This is the easy part; all I have to do is wave and give hugs. The next part is a little trickier in this cumbersome costume.

11:09 a.m.

“The Fairbear will be doing the ‘Cha Cha Slide,’ so stick around and dance with the Fairbear!” says my Fairbear assistant. If only it were as easy as it sounds. This cumbersome costume makes the hops, stomps, crisscrosses and claps an awkward routine, more than a dance, but the kids are into it, and so are some of the adults. The kids look at me like I’m a Fairbear rock star!

11:12 a.m.

I pantomime wiping sweat off my bear brow and come down off the stage for final hugs and photos with the kids. By this time the kids are already wandering away, screaming for a cotton candy and to visit the animals in the West Hall.

My duty as a Fairbear is done here. And the Fairbear fades in to obscurity … until next time. It’s fun to have so many kids be excited to see you, but it also feels good to be out of that giant bear head.

A Day in the Life of a Cast-Iron Chef

2009-08-23T13:29:00.000-07:00

Pots of water boil; steam rises in the air, mingling with the chef’s anticipation. A fan blows behind them as the crowd cheers before them.
“We got some screamers out there,” Chef Roberta Cattan jokes with the announcer.

Roberta Cattan and Robert Beauregard take their places on the Gourmet Garden stage. With just a half an hour on the clock, they’ve got to pull off a meal that wows the judges.

Cattan, a blue-ribbon champ six years running, is trying to hold on to her title. She is up against first- time competitor Beauregard, and he just may get in the way of her seventh consecutive win.

“If I’m going to compete, I’d rather compete against a champion,” Beauregard tells the audience. Cattan smiles, because that is exactly what he’s doing.

They must simultaneously prepare a blue-ribbon meal with yet-to-be announced secret ingredients, while also being a crowd-pleaser. And it certainly is a big crowd.

As the competition begins, the wicker basket appears. Inside is the secret ingredient. The announcer in his best game-show host voice says, “Today, the secret ingredients are…flank steak and bell peppers.”

Both of the chefs’ minds are working fast. How do I prepare the meat? With what side dishes? Should I grab more green peppers off the Kentucky Proud cart?

While the announcer warms up the audience with his silly shtick, the chefs decide. Beauregard tells the audience he has chosen to pan-sear the flank steak and serve it with angel hair pasta and Tuscan drunken vegetables. Cattan, with her title on the line, announces she will thinly slice her flank steak on the bias and serve it with a vegetable medley and mashed potatoes. Cattan also plans to use her own secret ingredient: a blend of 11 different spices she creates herself.

They cook, they smile and they hurry. While the audience is entertained with free giveaways and an Elvis impersonator in a gold lame suit, time is running short.

The judges have been selected randomly out of the audience and are patiently waiting. Each has a white board where they will score each dish on its taste, creativity and presentation. Beauregard finishes first and brings his dish down to the judges. The teenage girl from Spain takes only a small bite before making a face, but she still marks him fairly high. The other two judges are Kentucky natives and enjoy the dish a lot. Cattan brings her dish and receives three good reviews. This will be a close call.

The announcer asks for the final results. By only two points, the winner is…Roberta Cattan! Win number seven! She smiles like its Christmas morning and her present is another blue ribbon that she will place next to the six others she proudly owns. Maybe next year an eighth will complete the set, but for now the title of Cast-Iron Chef is still hers.

Can’t get enough of the Cast-Iron Chef Competition? Catch these match-ups on the Gourmet Garden stage sponsored by the Kentucky Beef Producers at 1:30 p.m. daily in the South Wing A Lobby. Robert Staggs of Standard Country Club vs. Bill Lynch of Le Relais on Monday, Aug. 24. Brandon Mitchell of Mitchell and Son Catering vs. Pete Robledo of Kroger Catering and Banquet Hall on Tuesday, Aug. 25. Tim Tucker of Salvation Army vs. Adam Hilsenrad of Café Beignet on Wednesday, Aug.26. Tavis Rockwell of Corbett’s Restaurant vs. Kendra Clark of Anglers Cove at Greenbo Lake State Park Resort on Thursday, Aug. 27. Colin Simmons of Black Cat Catering vs. Jared Richardson of Cleveland’s Restaurant on Friday, Aug. 28. Hollis Barnett of Varanese vs. Robert Black of The Blue-Eyed Chef Catering on Saturday, Aug. 29. Richard Lowe of Coach Lamp Restaurant & Pub vs. Mark Sullivan of Mitchell’s Fish Market on Sunday, Aug. 30.

A Day in the Life of an Ugly Lamp

2009-08-22T13:42:00.001-07:00

Plug me in and turn me on. It’s my job. I can light up a home, but I think I could even light up the world. Well, let me explain myself. I am a Spanish dancer frozen in this calypso routine.

“Think Dancing with the Stars but way more awesome!”
Above my head is a burlap shade, decorated with bedazzled fruits and sequins. Even though the top is embellished with bows, I am the show down below on my neon streaked platform.

Of course I will walk away the winner. That blue ribbon will only add to my glamour. Just look at my competition! A fuzzy troll lamp? Please. It’s a furry purple concoction with a troll doll peering out from on top. He is probably jealous of my provocative bod. Next to that purple beast is an early-twentieth century man on a quaint bicycle. His back is turned to me, pedaling away from the competition. He won’t get far with that cumbersome top hat above him.

On the other side of the table is one of those leg lamps, very Christmas Story. She is tall, feminine, wrapped in fishnet stockings and a red and black lace garter to match her red high heels. The black and gold lined lampshade is right out of a speakeasy. Yes, she is sexy and tacky, but she is no match for my maracas.

“Wow, why would they take it that far?”

Someone really broke their ankle for this contest! That lamp down the way with her x-ray shade and signature-filled cast is definitely catching a lot of attention. But, she’s not uglier than me! I agree with whoever signed her cast “xoxo Deb,” the toes are just too cute, decked out with purple toenail polish. I don’t think the good wishes and signatures written on the cast can help her now. Sorry Pat, Nina and Max – although you may have wished this hobbling friend a quick recovery – this is my contest and the Latin Queen will reign supreme!

This is gonna be a tough competition going up against the King…of pop, that is. The silver, sparkling glove paired with the famous, black-fringed red military jacket sure screams Michael Jackson, as does the collage of pictures retracing his life on the shade. Although this King can moonwalk better than I can merengue, no one shines with the ugly factor like me!

Now that giant lamp behind me may be the tallest; bet it doesn’t make it the ugliest. The ER doc atop that pill-bottle lamp should have saved some of that Tylenol for the headache she’s gonna get after losing to me.

The judges are coming around now. They’ve chosen the squirrel lamp! Just think taxidermy and the worst interpretation of Deliverance. Wow, the crew and I are shocked, we can’t believe we’ve been beaten by a squirrel. Even the broken ankle lamp won something! There’s always next year…

But you should still come out and judge me for yourself everyday of the Fair in the South Wing B lobby. Be careful, you may make your living room lamps jealous.

A Day in the Life of a Cow at the KSF

2009-08-21T13:42:00.000-07:00

“Come on Bessie. Come on. Time to get out; we’re here. We’ll milk you if you come inside…”

I don’t want to get out of my livestock trailer…no…you can’t make me…no matter how hard you pull…..Oh wait, this is the Kentucky State Fair! Sure, I’ll step out, today’s the day I strut my stuff.

First it’s time for my shower. Yikes! That’s cold! But I have to look nice for the judges. After my bath it’s time to moo-ve along to be trimmed and brushed. Don’t forget the oils; I like to make my coat glisten!

In my stall it is like an all-you-can-eat hay buffet. I can eat all day long, even in my sleep! I would like to get a nap, but the Kentucky kids keep petting and poking. It’s like they’ve never seen a cow before! Sheesh.

Here comes my owner. Time to put on my harness and give it my best. The judges are waiting. With my owner by my side, we step in to the ring. I hear our names called. I hold my head up high, give the judges a wink and slowly walk so they can see every inch of my well coifed coat.

Now the judges are tallying the results. They’ve seen all of us Kentucky Proud cows and they’ve made a decision. “And the winner is… Bessie” Hey, that’s me! And that’s my blue ribbon.

I gracefully walk my way back to the stall. It’s the best day of my whole cow life. I wouldn’t trade this for all the hay on the farm. Oh wait, did somebody say hay? I’m hungry.

Back to my spot and it’s finally time for a hay snack and a nap. After all, I deserve it.

A Day in the Life of a Little Mister

2009-08-20T13:50:00.000-07:00

Standing just shy of 3 ½ feet, I rule this stage. Mom just said to wave and be cute.

“Ha, like that’s a problem for me.”

With my lady by my side, we stand proud at the edge of the stage, the announcer says my favorite show is Sponge Bob and that I love Little Caesars pizza. Well, any pizza really!

“Hey mom, why are you pinching your cheeks like that?”

My friends really wanted to be here to cheer me on. Mom said maybe later we can have a sleepover and watch Ratatouille. But back to now, they are calling my name.

Although I haven’t quite mastered the art of tying my shoes, I do know how to flash my baby-teeth grin.

“Did you notice my two new gaps? The tooth fairy came last week, just in time for the Fair!”

We make our way off the stage and through the clouds of “cough, cough…” hairspray. Thank goodness I don’t have to do all that! Gross! The girls with their hair squeezed tightly around sponge curlers squeal and squirm while gobs of lip gloss are shellacked on their puckered lips.

While she gets all adorable, I gotta check my notes. Dad made me put this paper in my pocket so I won’t forget what to do. It says…

CHECKLIST

Get dressed at 11:40 a.m. (remember to zip pants)

Practice run-throughs at noon

Last-minute outfit changes at 12:10 p.m.

Group interviews with the judges (be polite and don’t pick nose!)

Sit and wait

WIN at 7:30 p.m.!

In the meantime, Mom, Dad, Sis and I hit up the Kidz Biz area and stroll outdoors, only to find funnel cakes the size of the Little Miss’ crown. I scarf down a corn dog and mom shrieks.

“Be careful not to spill any ketchup on your sash!”

I eye the Thrillway and wonder if my crown will stay in place as I twirl and dip on the Kiddie Rides.

I’m not sure exactly how this blue and white sash is supposed to fit, but people keep staring at me because of it as I walk through the exhibits. They point, ooh and aah as they marvel at my perfect blonde hair. Then they ask what county I represent and if I’m ready to win tonight.

“Of course I’m ready to win! I’m a Little Mister!”

Tonight is the night, when I’ll strut my stuff in front of a big crowd and they’ll cheer us on with whoops and hollers. I’ll take my Little Miss’ hand and we’ll saunter across the stage in our pressed shirts and dresses.

A day at the Fair could end perfectly if we win the title of Little Miss and Mister. But I guess we’ll just have to wait and see at the Little Miss and Mister Kentucky County Fairs Pageant at 7:30 p.m. in South Wing B.

Hopefully lots of people come out to watch me!

Last Chance to Buy Discounted Tickets!

2009-08-19T12:23:00.000-07:00

The 11-day, corn dog-eating, thrill-seeking, blue ribbon-winning Kentucky State Fair is almost here! Tomorrow the Fair begins, which means time is running out to buy advanced discount admission tickets.

Stop by any participating Louisville or Southern Indiana Kroger tonight to pick up general admission tickets for your entire family. Purchase adult tickets for only $6, Children tickets (ages 3-12) for just $2 and Seniors tickets (ages 55 & over) for $2. You can also buy Thrillway tickets for only $17 for a strip of 22 ride tickets.

Haven’t made plans yet for which day you’re attending? No problem! Tickets can be used any day of the Fair, so buy them now at the discounted rate.

Hurry to Kroger, before it’s too late! The offer ends at 10 p.m. tonight.

Fair Plans when the Weather is Foul

2009-08-19T10:34:00.000-07:00

If clouds and rain replace the sunny skies of Louisville during the Kentucky State Fair, don’t worry about your plans. The State Fair is always a fun trip in any type of weather with over 1.2 million square feet of indoor space jam-packed with Fair festivities. Check out the top 10 things to do at the Fair when it’s time to move indoors.

10. Stop, Shop and Sample
The hundreds of booths and vendors in the Commercial Exhibits in South Wing C will bring both surprise and joy to shopaholics and casual browsers alike. Visitors can spend hours shopping for everything from t-shirts and candles to antiques and homemade goods. And if out-of-towners decide they love our state enough to relocate, they can even buy a whole new house right inside the Fair! If money is tight, there is no need to worry, the commercial exhibitors are also generous with the free samples.

9. Rock Out While Staying In
Fairgoers will feel like they’re while visiting the outdoor entertainment tents where they can taste delicious foods while listening to good music. While the Q has offered good BBQ at the Fair for many years, it is now paired with new sponsor Miller Lite for the Miller Lite Brew and Q Tent on the West Lawn. Enjoy country music and grilled foods at the Sivori Country Music Tent in the South Wing Parking Lot. Fair fun-seekers can get in to the act at the Mike Linnig’s Tropical Tent with karaoke and audience participation contests. Also sample some of the chicken, fish and frozen drinks from Mike Linnig’s restaurant in the South Wing Parking Lot. At the Budweiser True Music Tent on the West Lawn bands will be rocking hard as the crowd chows down on a grilled selection from Associated Enterprises.

8. Hail to Heritage Hall
Seniors can enjoy non-stop, indoor fun because it’s always sunny in Heritage Hall. From morning cups of coffee and poetry contests to bingo and special contests, seniors won’t have to worry about weather dampening their plans. Admission to Senior Day sponsored by Humana, Aug. 25 will only cost those 55 and older two quarters. It doesn’t matter which day you join in the fun of Heritage Hall. Stop by on Heritage Hall on Aug. 22 for a “Homemade Surprise” potluck lunch or hop on down to the Nut’s-n-Honey Dance Club on Aug. 29 at 3 p.m. No matter the weather or the day, there’s always activities going on in Heritage Hall.

7. Say “Hay” to our Animals
A trip to the Fair isn’t complete without taking the family to visit our four-legged guests. The Representative Farm Animal Display can be viewed in the Broadbent Lobby Breezeway Aug. 20-30 from 9 a.m. to 10 p.m. Dairy Goats, Poultry, Pigeons and Rabbits will be in the Pavilion Aug. 20-23. Dairy Cattle can be seen in the West Wing from Aug. 20-24. Mules & Jacks will be in the stalls under Cardinal Stadium Aug. 20-27. Boer Goats can be seen in Broadbent Arena Aug. 21-22, 24-25. Sheep will be in the Pavilion Aug. 24-30. Beef Cattle can be seen in the West Wing Aug. 25-30. Swine will be in the Pavilion Aug. 25-30.

6. Blue Ribbons when the Sky is Gray
Support some of the youngest talent in the Bluegrass at the Little Miss & Mister Kentucky County Fairs Pageant, sponsored by DASANI Essence on Aug. 20. The contest will be in the South Wing B Conference Center in Room 104. Be entertained as teen performers compete in the Coca-Cola Talent Classic in South Wing B in rooms 103 and 104. The semi-finals are Aug. 22-23 with finals Aug. 29. See the most unique, strange and off-the-wall items at the Fair during the Ugly Lamp Contest, sponsored by Lynn’s Paradise Café. Judging begins Saturday, Aug. 22 on the Toyota Motor Manufacturing Blue Ribbon Stage. The lamps fit in one of three categories: “Born Ugly,” “Made Ugly” or “Ugly Leg Lamp,” inspired by “A Christmas Story.” They can be viewed everyday of the Fair in the South Wing B Lobby. Other contests include: “Something To Crow About” Rooster Crowing Contest, Kentucky Farm Bureau Federation’s Annual Gospel Quartet Contest and Kentucky Division Competition of the National Youth Storytelling Showcase.

5. Make a Date with the Bluegrass State
The best place to show off Kentucky is at the Fair, and from Kentucky Proud products to the Pride of the Counties and Main Street exhibits, the State Fair has it covered. Counties converge in the South Wing to show off their unique attributes, while fairgoers can take a stroll down Main Street to learn all about the Bluegrass culture through educational institutes and government agencies. The Educational Exhibits also boast the pride of the Bluegrass through two unique display areas. The “Lincoln to Luthiers” display, presented by the Kentucky Historical Society shows how Kentucky and the nation have been shaped by Abraham Lincoln and our military history. In the “Gallopalooza: Horses of Possibility City” exhibit, fairgoers can explore the painted fiberglass horses of Gallopalooza that show off the talent of local artists.

4. The Skinny on Mini-Fairgoers
When it rains, kids may not be able to flip and dip on midway rides, but they can get a kick out of all the kid-size festivities indoors. The Kidz Biz stage hosts favorite Looney Tunes characters, as well as Fairbear and Fairabear and includes daily performances by The Spoon Man and Kid’s Celebration. Displays by the Jefferson County Sherriff’s Department and the Louisville Metro Police Department will keep young children amazed. They are complete with emergency vehicles, boats and a pint-sized Safetytown, where young fairgoers can ride around a miniature city and learn the rules of the road. Children and teens can also gather in the North Lobby for an array of video games. The IGX Adrenaline Tour boasts 17 game ports and two 42” monitors for the ultimate in gaming experiences.

3. Rain or Shine, Enjoy Finger Lickin’ Treats
There’s nothing like enjoying a funnel cake in the hot summer sun. The powdered sugar covers all but two fingers holding your plate and the evidence of the hot, doughy treat lingers four hours on the corners of chapped lips. But even when the rain clouds come, the fair-favorite foods are still found indoors. At the Fairtown Food Court in South Wing C and other food vendors throughout the indoor facility, fairgoers can enjoy a feast from around the world. Vendors vary from Tidy Taco’s Mexican cuisine, and the Taste of Nawlins Cajun style, to the Golden Buddha’s Chinese fare, and Italian favorites at Hollywood Pizza to European flare at Murphy’s Café. Don’t worry about missing your favorite Fair specialties: elephant ears, deep fried Snickers, barbeque and snow cones. Your stomach won’t miss a thing with all the indoor food choices.

2. Cook Up Some Fun
Visiting the Kentucky Beef Producers’ Gourmet Garden stage in the South Wing A Lobby will whet fairgoers’ appetites when our professional chefs perform elaborate cooking demonstrations at various times every day of the Fair. Chefs from around the state will compete in the Cast-Iron Chef Competitions, presented by Royal Prestige Cookware, everyday at 1:30 p.m. on the Gourmet Garden stage. Amateur chefs will also compete in these challenges, Evan Williams® Bourbon Cooking Competition Friday, Aug. 21 at 6 p.m.; Ghirardelli® Chocolate Championship Sunday, Aug. 23 at 6 p.m.; Hidden Valley® Dressing’s “Fresh Taste for the Family” Recipe Contest Monday, Aug. 24 at 6 p.m.; Pillsbury® Refrigerated Pie Crust’s Pie Baking Championship Tuesday, Aug. 25 at 6 p.m.; Fleischmann’s® Yeast “Bake for the Cure” Baking Contest Wednesday, Aug. 26 at 6 p.m.; The Great American SPAM® Championship Thursday, Aug. 27 at 6 p.m. and Kentucky Beef Cook-Off Contest Friday, Aug. 28 at 6 p.m.

1. Family Friendly Showtime
Fun family entertainment will take center stage, even when weather turns rainy. On the Kentucky State Fair Family Stage, outstanding performers, Bounce and Ooh-La-La and Kenya Safari Acrobats, will keep families smiling and amazed, while local talents will amuse fairgoers of all ages under the roof of South Wing C. For in-the-round performances of a different style, enjoy the brand new Performing Arts Showcase stage located in the North Lobby. Storytellers, musicians and dancers will entertain audiences as they make their way through over one-million square feet of indoor space.

Through the rain or sunshine, the Kentucky State Fair has plenty of activities for any type of fairgoer. The indoor activities aren’t just limited to our top ten list. Check out the main stage concerts or World’s Championship Horse Show in Freedom Hall at 8 p.m., nightly, except for the Taylor Swift concert on Sunday Aug. 30 at 7 p.m. Need an indoor activity for the mornings? There are plenty of free horse shows throughout the fair at 9 a.m. in Freedom Hall. The indoor fun never ends at the Kentucky State Fair.

Fairbears at Bat for Kelly Tickets

2009-08-14T13:25:00.000-07:00

The Kentucky State Fairbears will be taking over Slugger Stadium on Aug. 15 and Aug. 17. The Fairbears can be seen at these Louisville Bats home games. They will also be tossing out 10 pairs of tickets, five at each game, to lucky Bats’ fans for the concert featuring Kelly Clarkson with special guest Gavin DeGraw.

The Fair officially starts next week on Thursday Aug. 20, but you can come on out to the ball game to get into the Fair spirit early. The winners of the tickets will be randomly selected from those attending the Bats games. Admission to the Fair is not included with the tickets.
If you can’t make it to the game, the tickets to the Kelly Clarkson concert are now offered at discounted prices. The concert is Aug. 20 at 8 p.m. in Freedom Hall. Admission to the show is $27.00 and $29.50 and includes admission to the Fair and a facility fee.

Tickets for Freedom Hall concerts available at the Freedom Hall and Kentucky International Convention Center Ticket Offices and all Ticketmaster outlets. Charge by phone at 1-800-745-3000, or purchase online at ticketmaster.com using ticketFast. Price includes a $2 facility fee and only includes gate admission to the Kentucky State Fair when purchased at the Freedom Hall Ticket Office, Kentucky International Convention Center Ticket Office or any Ticketmaster outlet. Tickets subject to availability.

For more information on other exciting Kentucky State Fair entertainment and events, visit www.kystatefair.org.

Discount Keith and Kelly Tickets

2009-08-14T06:06:00.000-07:00

Want to have all the fun for nearly half the price? Who doesn’t? The Kentucky State Fair is now offering discounted tickets to see Kelly Clarkson with special guest Gavin DeGraw on Aug. 20 and Keith Urban LIVE with special guest Pat Green on Aug. 22. Both concerts will begin at 8 p.m. in Freedom Hall. Discount tickets are available from Friday, August 14 at 10:00 a.m. until Wednesday, August 19. Grab your tickets now because “A Moment Like This” won’t last forever!

Kelly Clarkson with special guest Gavin DeGraw tickets are $27.00 and $29.50 and
include admission to the Fair and a facility fee. (Originally $47.00 and $52.00) Keith Urban LIVE with special guest Pat Green tickets are $29.50 and include admission to the Fair and
facility fee. (Originally $52.00) Lower arena seating is also available for the regular $67.00.

Former American Idol champion Kelly Clarkson will perform songs from her latest album, “All I Ever Wanted” and hits from her storied seven-year career, including songs like “Since U Been Gone,” “Because of You” and her recent No.1 smash hit “My Life Would Suck Without You.” Special guest Gavin DeGraw, who is no stranger to the spotlight, released his third album “Free” in March. DeGraw also got major radio-play for the songs “I Don’t Want to Be” and “Chariot.”

Don’t let the “Days Go By” on this Keith Urban concert deal! As a country music tour-de-force, Keith Urban has released a total of seven studio albums, charting more than 15 singles on the U.S. country charts, including 10 No.1’s. His latest hit “Kiss a Girl” is off his new album “Defying Gravity.” Special guest Pat Green will open for Urban, singing chart-rising songs like “Wave on Wave” and “Feels Just Like It Should.”

Tickets for Freedom Hall concerts available at the Freedom Hall and Kentucky International Convention Center Ticket Offices and all Ticketmaster outlets. Charge by phone at 1-800-745-3000, or purchase online at ticketmaster.com using ticketFast. Price includes a $2 facility fee and only includes gate admission to the Kentucky State Fair when purchased at the Freedom Hall Ticket Office, Kentucky International Convention Center Ticket Office or any Ticketmaster outlet. Tickets subject to availability.

For more information on other exciting Kentucky State Fair entertainment and events, visit www.kystatefair.org.

Sunday is Your Guide to Fun Day

2009-08-07T05:52:00.000-07:00

For maximum fun on a minimum budget, plan your day from start to finish with our Kentucky State Fair Guide to Fun, available in this Sunday’s Courier-Journal.

Planning ahead saves you and your crew both time and money. With this guide you can find out where to pick up your favorite Fair food, when the free concerts start and what performances you don’t want to miss. You will spend more time having fun and less time figuring out what to do next while you’re at the Fair.

Whether you’re hyper-organized or just perusing your options, the Guide to Fun is sure to get you ready for the Kentucky State Fair. Inside is a listing of all of our events and attractions as well as the basic info you should know before you go. We even have all the inside scoop on what’s new, what’s free and what’s for dinner!

Look for your guide on Sunday, Aug. 9, inserted in the Courier-Journal. If your newspaper isn’t as convenient as your front porch, you can pick one up anywhere you’d buy a morning cup of coffee.

The Time is Ripe: Award-Winning Recipes Just in Time for Fair Season

2009-08-04T08:11:00.000-07:00

The Kentucky State Fair is almost here and nothing puts you in the mood for Fair festivities like fresh fruit and produce that is reminiscent of Fairs’ past. Baskets at local farmers markets are overflowing with fresh produce from across the state, so cook up some tasty recipes that celebrate both the Kentucky State Fair and the Commonwealth’s growing power. Look for Kentucky-grown blueberries, peaches, strawberries and tomatoes, fruits that all boast a late summer picking season.

Check out these ribbon-winning recipes that feature the season’s best and then head to the State Fair Aug. 20-30 to see who takes the cake in 2009. Cooking competitions take place Aug. 21, 23-28 at 6 p.m. on the Gourmet Garden stage, while the culinary entries will be on display daily at the Fair.

BLUEBERRIES – Want a delicious breakfast that is as blue as our ribbons? Try Barbara Tenney’s 1995 blue-ribbon-winning blueberry muffin recipe that will sweeten up this season’s best blueberries.

Blueberry Streusel Muffins
Ingredients:
½ cup sugar
¼ cup shortening (softened) or oil
1 egg
1 ½ cups flour
2 teaspoons baking powder
½ teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon vanilla
1 cup blueberries
½ cup milk

Directions:
Preheat oven to 400 degrees. Cream together sugar, shortening and egg. Add flour, baking powder, and salt, then add milk and vanilla; stir just until blended. Add blueberries, stir gently.Streusel Topping:½ cup brown sugar1 tablespoon flour1 teaspoon nutmeg1 tablespoon butterDirections: Combine brown sugar, flour, nutmeg and butter; blend well with fork. Pour batter into greased muffin cups, filling two-thirds full, then sprinkle with streusel topping. Bake at 400 degrees for 20-25 minutes. Yield: 8 large (or 12 medium) muffins.

PEACHES – Peaches and cream go together like the Fair and Freddy Farm Bureau, and with this 1995 blue-ribbon-winning recipe of Kathy Metzmeier, you’ll have a homemade snack that’s good to go.

Peaches and Cream Date Bars
Ingredients:
1 package (8 ounces) chopped and pitted dates
2 cups chopped fresh peaches (finely chopped without skin)
1 stick butter1 teaspoon vanilla
1 teaspoon brandy
1 teaspoon soda
½ teaspoon salt

Directions:
Cream butter and sugar, add egg and flavorings. Sift dry ingredients together then add dates and peaches to coat. Stir in creamed mixture well and spread in an 11 ½” x 7 ½” glass baking dish (greased and floured). Add topping (recipe below) then bake at 325 degrees for 30-40 minutes. When cool, cut into bars and drizzle with cream cheese icing (recipe below).

Topping:
¼ cup light brown sugar
½ cup English walnuts
½ teaspoon cinnamon

Directions:
Blend all ingredients together in food processor or blender.

Cream Cheese Icing:
1 package (3 ounces) cream cheese
½ teaspoon vanilla½ teaspoon brandy
3 tablespoons butter, softened
1 ½ cups powdered sugar
Milk, if needed

Directions:
Beat all ingredients with mixer. If necessary add milk a little at a time to reach desired consistency.
Yield: 32 bars

STRAWBERRIES – Want to mix savory with sweet in a gourmet salad that even kids can help make? Check out the 2008 Gourmet Garden blue-ribbon-winning recipe by Samantha Hall in the Kentucky Beef Cook-off “Kids in the Kitchen” Contest.

Fruit Skirt Salad
Ingredients:
½ cup Soy Sauce
½ cup olive oil
1 tsp. pepper
1 tsp. Worcestershire Sauce
½ tsp. Ground Cumin
2 lbs. Skirt Steak

Salad:
Mixed Greens
½ cup Mandarin Oranges
½ cup Sliced Strawberries
¼ cup Sunflower SeedsRaspberry Vinaigrette salad dressing

Directions:
In a large zip-lock bag, combine all marinade ingredients. Cut the skirt steak into manageable large pieces and add them to the bag of marinade. Allow the meat to marinade for at least 2 hours. Remove the meat from the bag and grill the steak for 6-8 minutes on each side- grill until desired doneness is achieved. Allow the steak to sit for about 10 minutes before slicing it into thin strips. Arrange the strips over the salad greens. Arrange the oranges and strawberries around the edge of the salad. Sprinkle the sunflower seeds over the salad. Drizzle the salad dressing over the salad.

TOMATOES – The two requirements to be a fair-favorite food: deep fried and on a stick. This fried green cherry tomato recipe of Rusty Portman from the 2008 Canolainfo.org “Stick with Canola Oil, Fry it for the Fair” Contest captures both the essence of the south and the deep-fried goodness of the Fair. Try this southern favorite with a twist at your next summer cookout.

Fried Green Cherry Tomatoes
Ingredients:
30-60 Cherry tomatoes
2 ½ - 3 cups cornmeal
3 tablespoons pepper
2 – 2 ½ cups flour
¾ cup milk
48 oz. Canola oil

Dip:
¼ cup horseradish
1 teaspoon tomato pesto
¼ cup ranch dressing

Directions:
In a stand mixer combine flour, eggs and milk for 5 minutes. In a Ziploc bag, combine cornmeal, salt and pepper. Spear 3 green cherry tomatoes on each skewer and dip in batter and roll in cornmeal and set on a rack until all are complete. Dip in batter and roll in cornmeal a second time and fry in Canola oil heated at 325 degrees for 3 minutes.

Kentucky State Fair is hiring for 800 positions!

2009-08-04T07:26:00.000-07:00

As many as 800 part-time positions will be available for those seeking employment during the Fair.

Applications for temporary workers for the 2009 Kentucky State Fair are being accepted beginning Monday, Aug. 10. Positions for hire include maintenance staff, grounds, housekeeping, admission gate keepers, tour guides and tram drivers. Wages start at $7.25 an hour, with some positions paying slightly more. The Kentucky State Fair starts Thursday, Aug. 20 and runs through Sunday, Aug. 30.

Those seeking to apply can do so at the Kentucky State Fair Employment Trailer located behind the Armory and Cracker Barrel (near Gate 4 of the Kentucky Exposition Center) off Crittenden Drive.

HOURS THAT APPLICATIONS WILL BE ACCEPTED ARE AS FOLLOWS:
Mon., Aug. 10 – Mon., Aug. 17 8 a.m. – 4 p.m.
Tues., Aug. 18 6 a.m. – 6 p.m.
Wed., Aug. 19 – Thurs., Aug. 20 6 a.m. – Midnight
Fri., Aug. 21 6 a.m. – 8 p.m.
Sat., Aug. 22 6 a.m. – Midnight
Sun., Aug. 23 – Fri., Aug. 28 6 a.m. – 8 p.m.
Sat., Aug. 29 6 a.m. – Midnight
Sun., Aug. 30 6 a.m. – 2 p.m.

All applicants must be at least 18 years of age and apply in person. For additional information, call (502) 367-5235 for the Employment Trailer.

Temporary jobs will also be available after the Fair. Those interested in working after Aug. 30 can apply at Kentucky Exposition Center’s administrative office in the front of Freedom Hall.

For more information about the Kentucky State Fair, visit www.kystatefair.org.

Make Room on Your Walls

2009-07-24T13:06:00.000-07:00

The clock is ticking down to the Kentucky State Fair and to get you in the mood for non-stop rides, deep-fried fair foods and a multitude of blue ribbons, it’s time to show off a legendary icon that captures all the bright images of your fondest Fair memories – the campaign posters!

The Hollywood Walk of Fame hasn’t seen this many stars!
It’s your fair and it’s your turn to see the stars! Recognize familiar famous faces, including Heart, Kelly Clarkson and Gary Allan before they take the concert stages of the Kentucky State Fair in just less than a month! Whether you’ve already bought your tickets for the Main Stage performances or you’re excited about one of the free concerts, you’re sure to experience more stars than the August nights.

More rides than a New York City cab company!
You don’t have to travel to the Big Apple this year to experience the hustle and bustle. Six Flags Kentucky Kingdom combines with North American Midway Entertainment to form an exhilarating Thrillway that will entice any thrill seeker. Twirl, dip and flip on rides you’ll never forget with an all-access wristband. For just $24, the wristband gives you access to all the rides on Thursday, Aug. 20, Monday, Aug. 24 through Thursday, Aug. 27 from 2 p.m. – close and on Sunday, Aug. 30 from noon – close. Got a pint-sized fairgoer? Purchase a $12 child wristband for any fairgoer under 48 inches on Fridays, Aug. 21 & 28 to enjoy unlimited access on all the kiddie rides.

Old Macdonald had a farm, but not as big as ours!
E-I-E-I-Oh my! From the rabbits donning blue ribbons to the cock-a-doodle-doos of the rooster crowing contest, there are furry festivities to keep everyone entertained. As well as the 4-H and FFA competitions and the animal displays, other amusing barnyard acts include: Miller’s Border Collies, Pork Chop Revue and JUMP! The Ultimate Dog Show featuring the amazing High Flying Dock Jumping Dogs. Or for a horse of another color, join the horse world in celebrating the “Super Bowl of Saddlebred Horses” as the World’s Championship Horse Show prances into Freedom Hall. Before you leave, be sure to stop by the North Lobby and learn how to create your very own animals to take home. The Balloon Masters will teach sculpting classes daily at 12:30 p.m. and throughout the Fair, they will also be contorting balloons into a life-size display of Old Macdonald’s Farm.

You can view the posters online now and they will also be distributed to many newspapers around the state in August, so look for one in your hometown paper as the Fair nears.

Check out the 2009 posters, along with award-winning posters of the past at www.kystatefair.org/posters/Poster.html and picture yourself at the Fair, Aug. 20-30.

Stars coming to the Kentucky State Fair light up the CMT Music Award Stage

2009-06-17T12:40:00.000-07:00

The artists of the Kentucky State Fair Main Stage Concert Series were center stage at the Country Music Television (CMT) Music Awards.

The belle of the awards show, Taylor Swift, starred in an opening act, parodying how all of her dreams seem to come true. Once the show ended, Swift needed to find a handy carpenter to build her more shelves to the trophy case. She won both Video of the Year and Female Video of the Year for “Love Story.” She was also nominated with Def Leppard for the Wide Open Country Video of the Year award for their collaboration on “Photograph.”

Taylor Swift also made a top viral moment when she teamed up with hip-hop artist T-Pain for the comical “Thug Story.” Swift rapped about her thug life of knitting and baking cookies. Swift’s over-sized white tee and diamond grill completed the transformation of Swift from country songstress to hard-livin’ rapper. To see the video click here: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=d6ZwFbVy66c&eurl=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.popcrunch.com%2F&feature=player_embedded.

Kellie Pickler performed her latest “Best Days of Your Life” on the awards show and was nominated for Female Video of the Year for “Don’t You Know You’re Beautiful.” Pickler will be performing with Taylor Swift and new-comers Gloriana at the Kentucky State Fair August 30.

Gloriana became the winner of the Nationwide Insurance “On Your Side” Award after thousands of fans voted for four weeks for their favorite picks. With such renowned fan support, Gloriana will have an even bigger future ahead of them.

Keith Urban also made his mark on the CMT Music Awards. Urban won Collaborative Video of the Year with Brad Paisley for “Start a Band” and was nominated for Male Video of the Year for his hit “Sweet Thing.” He even performed twice, crooning “Sweet Thing” to audiences across the world and joining up with Jason Aldean for “She’s Country.”

After all of that, Keith Urban still has the energy to put on a great concert for his fans at the Kentucky State Fair, August 22 with special guest Pat Green.

Free concert performer, Billy Currington presented the Duo Video of the Year Award. Currington is known for his hits “Good Directions,” “I Got a Feelin’” and his latest single “People Are Crazy.”

He will be performing with former Trick Pony lead singer Heidi Newfield free with the price of admission to the Kentucky State Fair, August 29.

Pick up your tickets and watch these artists go right from the CMT stage to our stage at the Kentucky State Fair. For more about the 2009 Kentucky State Fair concert line-up and ticket information visit www.kystatefair.org.

See Journey and Heart with "Open Arms"

2009-06-16T11:39:00.000-07:00

Are you a small town girl or a city boy? Take the midnight train to the Kentucky State Fair to see an oldies rock lineup that never gets old.

Rock legend Journey will share the stage with special guest Heart on August 21 at Freedom Hall as part of the Kentucky State Fair Main Stage Concert Series. Tickets cost $50 and $55 and will go on sale June 22 at 10 a.m. The price includes admission to the Kentucky State Fair and a facility fee.

Belt out Top 40 power ballads like “Faithfully,” “Open Arms” and “Any Way You Want It,” with the band live in concert, instead of your usual one-man or woman, car jam sessions.

According to USA Today the band is the fifth best rock band in American history. And “Don’t Stop Believing” is the top-selling catalog track in iTunes history, surpassing over 2 million downloads in 2008.

Starting in the early 70s in San Francisco, Journey has evolved from local band to star-studded phenomenon, and the changing faces behind the music have kept with the style of Journey’s rock attitude. Journey truly spans the decades. From those that grew up listening to 8-tracks, to the next generation of iPod users, families and fans alike will rock out to the legendary sounds of the commercially successful Journey.

The sister act of Heart will bring back memories of the 70s with songs like “Barracuda” and “Crazy on You.” Ann and Nancy Wilson have sold over 30 million records and had 21 Top 40 hits. After a successful career the sisters took a break in the late 90s to pursue individual goals. Nancy married director Cameron Crowe, who created such successful movies as, “Jerry Maguire,” “Elizabethtown” and Academy Award-winning “Almost Famous.” The sisters reunited and began touring after the release of their comeback album, “Jupiter’s Darling” in 2004.

Stars will collide at the Kentucky State Fair, so be good to yourself and buy tickets to see these rock legends.

Tickets are available at the Freedom Hall & Kentucky International Convention Center Ticket Offices and all Ticketmaster outlets. Charge by phone at (502) 361-3100 or 1-800-745-3000, or purchase online at www.ticketmaster.com using ticketFast.

For more information on other exciting Kentucky State Fair entertainment and events, visit www.kystatefair.org.

The Good, The Loud, and the Ugly

2009-06-03T12:52:00.000-07:00

With such an array of talent in the bluegrass, conventional categories cannot hold back these Kentuckians. The Kentucky State Fair is home to several unique categories of competition for those with both traditional talents, such as pageantry, to those with, well, quirkier talents, like owning the rooster that can crow the most. Either way, all are welcomed to put their originality on display at the 105th Kentucky State Fair.

For those with the unique talent of making or spotting ugly there is always the Ugly Lamp Contest presented by Lynn’s Paradise Cafe. Crowds ogle the “born ugly” displays trying to figure out who would’ve at one time purchased such a lamp for their living room and get creative ideas from those that are in the “made ugly” category. The teasing is all in good fun when the lamps are on display in South Wing B for the duration of the fair with judging taking place on Saturday, August 22 at 3:00 p.m.

For all of the glitz and none of the drama of the Miss USA pageant there is the Little Miss and Mister Kentucky County State Fairs Pageant. Talented children between 5 and 8-years-old from all around Kentucky will sparkle as they make their mark at the Kentucky State Fair. Contestants are the finalists from their local county fair pageants and are here to take home the title of Little Miss or Little Mister Kentucky. The pageant begins Thursday, Aug. 20 at 7:30 p.m. in the South Wing Conference Center. Fortunately, no appearances by Donald Trump or his hair will be made.

Those tots aren’t the only ones who can entertain a crowd. The Kentucky Farm Bureau Federation’s Annual Gospel Quartet Contest is held Thursday, Aug. 27 at 9:15 a.m. on the Chevrolet Family Stage in the South Wing. The winning quartet will move on to the National Gospel Quartet Contest and will perform at the Farm Bureau State Convention. Hopefully nobody confuses a corndog for a microphone.

If a lunch of meat-on-a-stick, funnel cake, and monkey-nuts makes you feel sleepy, then get a mid-afternoon wake-up call at the Kentucky State Fair Rooster Crowing Contest. Perhaps the loudest special contest, a rooster must crow the most times in 15 minutes during the daily competitions to get into the finals. The daily competitions are Aug. 20-23 with the finalists determined on Aug. 23 at 2:00 p.m. at the Pavilion. Trust us, there is no chance you’ll miss this because you were sleeping in.

Just because you’ve never made a quilt before, doesn’t mean you can’t be a winner on the first try. The Mrs. Wyndall Smith Quilt Award Presentation is for first-time quilters. A rosette and silver tray will be given in a ceremony for best “first quilt” on Aug. 21 at 10:00 p.m. Bonus points if your quilt is inspired by the Oak Ridge Boys’ new album.

For kids who are better at spinning a yarn than knitting, there is the Kentucky Division Competition of the National Youth Storytelling Showcase. At least these kids are easier to listen to than the rooster crowing contest. Sponsored by the Kentucky Storytelling Association, this contest is open to young people 17 and under. Storytellers are judged based on ability and ambassadorship. The competition is held Friday, Aug. 28 from 10:00 a.m. to noon in Newmarket Hall. Winners at the state level will go on to compete at the national competition. The most long-winded contestant will also receive an automatic seat in the U.S. congress.

For more information on these and other exciting events and attractions at the Kentucky
State Fair, visit www.kystatefair.org.

Six-ish degrees of separation

2009-05-27T09:11:00.000-07:00

The summer is heating up and the degrees are rising. Check out these connections between the main stage performers playing at the Kentucky State Fair, August 20-30.

Six ½ degrees of Gavin DeGraw and Kelly Clarkson

1. Gavin DeGraw’s hit, “I Don’t Want to Be,” was the theme song for television teen drama, “One Tree Hill.”
2. Actor Chad Michael Murray, the star of “One Tree Hill,” portrayed the protagonist Nick Jones in the 2005 thriller “Wax House.”
3. Alongside Murray, Paris Hilton tested her acting skills in “Wax House.”
4 1/2. Hilton’s BFF is Nicole Richie, whose father Lionel Richie, was included on the soundtrack for “40-Year-Old Virgin” with his song, “Hello.”
5. The 2005 cult comedy hit “40-Year-Old Virgin” stars comedic actor Steve Carell.
6. Carell screams out Kelly Clarkson’s name while getting his chest waxed.

Ten degrees of Taylor Swift, Gloriana and Kellie Pickler

1. Taylor Swift’s debut single in 2006 was “Tim McGraw,” named after the country singer.
2. Tim McGraw starred in the 2008 holiday film “Four Christmases” with actor Jon Voight.
3. Jon Voight’s daughter is Angelina Jolie.
4. Jolie starred in “The Good Shepherd” with actor Billy Crudup.
5. Crudup graduated from University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, where Gloriana band member, Tom Gossin attended before pursuing a career in music.
6. Gloriana lead singer, Cheyenne Kimball, won “America’s Most Talented Kid” in 2002, hosted by Mario Lopez.
7. Lopez auditioned to be Bob Barker’s replacement on the game show “Price is Right.”
8. Tyra Banks made a guest appearance on the “Price as Right,” as one of Bob Barker’s beauties.
9. Tyra Banks starred in the film “Coyote Ugly,” in which LeAnn Rimes made a cameo appearance.
10. Kellie Pickler sang LeAnn Rimes’ “On the Side of Angels” at her high school graduation.

Six degrees of Keith Urban and Pat Green

1. Country superstar Keith Urban is married to Aussie actress Nicole Kidman.
2. In Nicole Kidman’s first wedding, Emilio Estevez was Tom Cruise’s best man.
3. Estevez was married to Paula Abdul for two years.
4. Abdul was the judge on “American Idol” when Kyle Ensley made it to the top 25 in season 7.
5. Ensley was a member of FarmHouse Fraternity – as was country singer, Pat Green.

Tickets are available at the Freedom Hall & Kentucky International Convention Center Ticket Offices and all Ticketmaster outlets. Charge by phone at (502) 361-3100 or 1-800-745-3000, or purchase online at www.ticketmaster.com using ticketFast.

For more information on other exciting Kentucky State Fair entertainment and events, visit www.kystatefair.org.

Free Concert Lineup at the 2009 Kentucky State Fair

2009-05-19T13:14:00.000-07:00

The economy doesn’t have to dip into your fun budget, at least not with these free concerts at the Kentucky State Fair. There is something for everybody in our musical line-up to please your ears, as well as your wallet. The following concerts are free with paid admission to the Kentucky State Fair. All free concerts will be held at Cardinal Stadium beginning at 8 p.m.

Peter Frampton with special guest The Afters – Thursday, August 20The beginning of the Kentucky State Fair concert series begins with British rock legend Peter Frampton. Frampton’s career began as a member of the 1960s groups Humble Pie and The Herd. Since 1971 he has been a notable Grammy award-winning solo artist. Recently, Frampton won the 2007 Grammy Award for Best Pop Instrumental Album for “Fingerprints.” Best known for his live shows and albums, Frampton will treat the audience to his signature guitar riffs and hit songs “Baby I Love Your Way” and “Do You Feel Like We Do.” Joining Frampton in concert is The Afters. The Texas-based band has recorded two albums, including the title track, “Never Going Back to OK” in 2006. It became the most played song on R&R magazine's Christian CHR chart for 2008.

The Commodores – Friday, August 21
The Commodores were Motown’s biggest act for two decades. The Grammy Award winners are still creating new albums and fresh hits, 37 years after being first discovered. The Commodores are best known for their mega-hits “Brick House,” “Easy” and “Three Times a Lady.” The Commodores will show the Kentucky State Fair that they are still as funky as when they started.

Shinedown with special guest Rev Theory – Saturday, August 22
Having toured with rock sensations Seether, Godsmack, Breaking Benjamin and Red Jumpsuit Apparatus, the Florida-bred rock band Shinedown will unleash “The Sound of Madness” and other audience favorites at the Kentucky State Fair. The platinum-album selling band is best known for their songs “45,” “Save Me,” “Devour” and “Second Chance.” Shinedown also covered Lyrnyd Skynyrd’s “Simple Man” in memory of friend and Pantera guitarist “Dimebag” Darrell. With three studio albums under their belt, Shinedown has a hard-rocking future ahead of them. Special guest Rev Theory will be performing off their sophomore album “Light It Up.”

An Evening with the Oak Ridge Boys – Sunday, August 23
It wouldn’t be the Kentucky State Fair without hearing the Oak Ridge Boys’ hit “Elvira.” The Oak Ridge Boys will be returning for their 33rd Kentucky State Fair to perform their classic hits, “Trying to Love Two Women” and “Bobbie Sue.” The Oak Ridge Boys will add fresh tunes to their show, introducing their new album, “The Boys Are Back,” featuring a fusion of new rock sounds and music from their country, gospel roots.

Jeremy Camp with special guest Southeast Worship Band – Monday, August 24
Jeremy Camp grew up the son of a pastor and has been sharing his spirituality through music since his first album, “Stay” in 2002. Camp has won numerous awards to match his 16 No. 1 songs. “Speaking Louder” is Camp’s new album, debuting in the Top 40 on the Billboard 200. Performing with Camp is Louisville’s own Southeast Worship Band. Based out of Southeast Christian Church, the Southeast Worship Band plays nearly every worship service delighting the congregation.

Gary Allan with special guest Candy Coburn – Tuesday, August 25
Joining the concert line-up at the Kentucky State Fair is country superstar Gary Allan. His latest album, “Living Hard” was released in 2007 with hits, “Learning How to Bend,” “Watching Airplanes” and “She’s So California.” Allan has had major success since 1996, with his debut album, “Used Hearts for Sale.” Allan has proved to be a country music mainstay with his 2007 greatest hits album jetting to No. 1 on the Billboard Top Country Albums charts. Special guest Candy Coburn is returning to the Kentucky State Fair. The up and coming Coburn will play songs from her albums “Rev it Up” and “Enjoy the Ride.”

Bobby Vee, Johnny Tillotson, The Shirelles and Peter & Gordon – Wednesday, August 26
Tease your beehive and slick your duck-tail because Bobby Vee, Johnny Tillotson, The Shirelles, and Peter & Gordon are going to take you back in time. Bop along and remember way back when with Bobby Vee’s hit “Susie Baby” and Johnny Tillotson’s “It Keeps Right on a Hurtin.” Introduce your kids to the Shirelles, the first female group to make it to No. 1 on the Billboard charts with hits like “Mama Said.” Peter & Gordon represent the British invasion, recording hits written by Paul McCartney like, “A World Without Love.” This show will make you believe rock n’ roll is here to stay.

Pam and Mel Tillis – Thursday, August 27
Pam and Mel Tillis are keeping it all in the family with their father-daughter country act. Mel Tillis is a country music icon having won CMA’s Entertainer of the Year award. He is known for his outlaw country hits “I Ain't Never,” “Good Woman Blues” and “Coca-Cola Cowboy.” Daughter Pam Tillis is a music star in her own right becoming a member of the Grand Ole Opry in 2000. Her hits include “Mi Vida Loca (My Crazy Life),” “Maybe it Was Memphis” and “Shake the Sugar Tree.”

The Wallflowers – Friday, August 28
After the success of “Bringing Down the Horse” in the early 90s with songs, “One Headlight” and “6th Avenue Heartache,” The Wallflowers have continued to be a pop-rock force in the music industry. Releasing six albums and recording various singles produced for commercials, movies and television shows such as “CSI: Crime Scene Investigation,” The Wallflowers will bring their versatile style to the Kentucky State Fair.

Billy Currington with special guest Heidi Newfield – Saturday, August 29
One of the newest artists to tear up the country music charts is Billy Currington. Signed in 2003, Currington already has a slew of hits including, “Must be Doin’ Somethin’ Right,” “Good Directions” and “Don’t” from his new album, “Little Bit of Everything.” Special guest Heidi Newfield will share the stage singing her hit, “Johnny and June” from her debut solo album “What Am I Waiting For.” Newfield was previously known for her lead vocals in the country group Trick Pony, but is now touring and entertaining fans as a solo act.

Get the Good Dish on What’s Going on at the Fair

2009-05-12T13:33:00.000-07:00

American Idol champion Kelly Clarkson will grace television screens all this week. Clarkson will help Jay Leno have a memorable last month on the Tonight Show by performing tonight. Clarkson will also be dancing with Ellen when she heads on over to The Ellen DeGeneres Show, Thursday, May 14 to play “I Do Not Hook Up.” An American Idol connection: Judge Kara DioGuardi co-wrote her latest hit song. If your life would suck without Kelly Clarkson, then be sure to pick up your tickets for her concert August 20 with special guest Gavin DeGraw at the Kentucky State Fair! Trust us, our lives would suck without her soulful voice too.

If you plan on watching the Food Network before flipping on Leno tonight, then catch the greased sauce pans of the Gourmet Garden at the Kentucky State Fair. Whether you are the queen of the kitchen or the master of the grill, all amateur chefs are invited to enter in the cooking competitions at the Gourmet Garden. Put your best dishes to the test in the Evan Williams® Bourbon Cooking Competition, Hidden Valley® Dressing’s “Fresh Taste for the Family” Recipe Contest, Kentucky Beef Cook-Off Contest, or the The Great American SPAM® Championship.

For those who prefer something sweet from the oven, compete in the Ghirardelli® Chocolate Championship, Pillsbury® Refrigerated Pie Crust’s Pie Baking Championship, or Fleischmann’s® Yeast “Bake for the Cure” Baking Contest.

To find out more information about these hot culinary contests, check out our expanded article on the Gourmet Garden stage, as well as other KSF events, in the May 15 issue of the Front & Center e-newsletter. Front & Center is your guide to all of the exciting events at the Kentucky Exposition Center and the Kentucky State Fair. If you aren’t already signed up for the e-newsletter, all you have to do is join the Kentucky Future Events Club.

We’ve even made this easy on you too. Just go to www.kystatefair.org and click on the logo that says KENTUCKY FUTURE EVENTS CLUB. Then just drop in your contact info. I promise we won't come knock on your door and demand a four-course meal while you and the fam are playing cornhole this weekend. But you can get some way-cool ticket promotions, pre-sales, etc. Seriously, it's the best deal in town. Sign up for the Kentucky Future Events Club and stay tuned for more Kentucky State Fair and Kelly Clarkson news.

Where The Grass is as Blue as the Ribbons We Give Out

2009-05-06T12:55:00.000-07:00

Are you tired of the fact that Pabst has a blue ribbon and you don’t? This year all of that can change. Enter your best at this year’s Kentucky State Fair and feel like a winner even if you can’t knock down a single milk jug on the Thrillway. The Kentucky State Fair is home to over 30 entry departments and thousands of categories to compete in. Bring your best knitting, baking, goats, and even your Elvis Tribute lamp to be eyed and prized by our judges and crowds from around the globe.

This year is easier than ever to enter. All categories, excluding large livestock, can now be entered in online. Just visit www.kystatefair.org. Then click on “Competitions” on the navigation bar and then click “entry information”. Download the rules and regulations of your category, sign up, and even pay your entry fee. You can also still call or write in for the free 2009 Kentucky State Fair Premium Catalog to be mailed to you. That address and phone number is:

Entry Department
P.O. Box 37130
Louisville, KY 40233-7130
(502) 367-5190

Just remember that all entry applications must be submitted by the respective deadlines. All livestock, poultry, and pigeon entry applications must be postmarked by July 10. Rabbit applications must be postmarked July 18. All other general entries must be postmarked by July 1, with late entries accepted until July 10. Just make sure you’re looking at a 2009 calendar and not the antique 1925 Norman Rockwell one you’re planning to enter in our competitions.

If you just have to share your blueberry pie recipe with the world or need to defend your champion watermelon title, we are here for you. Just give us a call at 502-367-5000 or visit www.kystatefair.org.

Even if your green thumb is as black as the cakes you try to bake, you can still join us for summer fun at the Kentucky State Fair, August 20-30. Stop by and see who the blue ribbons are going home with this year.

Premium books, tickets and how to get 'em early...

2009-05-06T11:42:00.000-07:00

So down to the good stuff, the Competitive Entry premium books are at the printers. We can't give you a deadline of when they will arrive on your doorstep, but just be on the lookout. I'll pull out my "how to be a spy like Jason Bourne" moves and I'm positive we will get them to you as soon as possible.

Also, do yourself a huge favor and check out the Kentucky Future Events Club. Go to http://www.kystatefair.org/ and click on the logo that says KENTUCKY FUTURE EVENTS CLUB. This brings you to this page, http://www.kyfairexpo.org/ticketoffice/futureeventsclub.htm - drop in your contact info. I promise we won't come knock on your door and demand a four-course meal while you and the fam are playing cornhole this weekend. But you can get some way-cool ticket promotions, pre-sales, etc. Seriously, it's the best deal in town. It's FREE and in this economy, the Kentucky State Fair is all about being easy on the wallet.

In the meantime...

2009-05-06T11:38:00.000-07:00

The Fair planning is in absolute full-swing mode. I don't know what we're more excited about - getting to announce all of this cool stuff or actually attending this cool stuff, August 20-30! But, in the meantime, check out our sister Facebook page for the Kentucky Exposition Center. Big things will be popping off on there in the near future, so you are going to want to get on board NOW!

Look up "Kentucky Exposition Center" or just click the link below.
http://www.facebook.com/home.php#/pages/Louisville-KY/Kentucky-Exposition-Center/73124891551?v=wall&viewas=41118990
Also, check out twitter!
@kystatefair and @kyexpocenter!

"...this ain't Hollywood, this is a small town I was a dreamer before you went and let me down..."

2009-05-06T11:35:00.000-07:00

TAYLOR SWIFT “FEARLESS TOUR 2009” WITH SPECIAL GUESTS KELLIE PICKLER AND GLORIANA
Tickets on Sale May 1 @ 10 a.m.

After 11 days of Kentucky State Fair food, fun and fair action, country singer-songwriter Taylor Swift takes the stage with Kellie Pickler and Gloriana on the last night of the Fair. Pennsylvania-born Swift has emerged on the country/pop music scene as a successful crossover act, with her self-titled debut album producing five hit singles on the Billboard charts and being certified three-times Multi-Platinum. At only 19 years old, Swift has hit it big with “Tim McGraw,” “Teardrops on My Guitar” and “Love Story.” Swift picked up two 2009 Academy of Country Music (ACM) awards – one for album of the year as a performer and producer for “Fearless” and another for the Crystal Milestone award for selling more albums than any other artist in 2008, for the international success of "Love Story" and for attracting younger listeners to country music. Fellow country artist Kellie Pickler rose to fame after finishing sixth place on American Idol in 2006. Her debut album generated three top 25 singles, with “I Wonder” reaching #14. Country music newcomer Gloriana released its first single, “Wild at Heart” in 2009. Band member Cheyenne Kimball has achieved independent success as the winner of TV show America's Most Talented Kid at the age of 12 and the subject of a MTV show called “Cheyenne.”

The normal who, what, when and where!

Sunday, August 30, 2009 – 7 p.m.
Freedom Hall – during the Kentucky State Fair
$27, $47 and $57* (Reserved Seating)
*Price includes admission to the Kentucky State Fair and a $2 facility fee.

Tickets are available at the Freedom Hall & Kentucky International Convention Center Ticket Offices and all Ticketmaster outlets. Charge by phone at (502) 361-3100 or 1-800-745-3000, or purchase online at www.ticketmaster.com using ticketFast.

For more information on other exciting Kentucky State Fair entertainment and events, visit www.kystatefair.org.

Win Tickets to Keith Urban and Fun with Song Lyrics

2009-05-06T11:31:00.000-07:00

Song lyric of the day - "...and i want to be free, wind in my hair, salt on my skin, sun in the air..." That's the title track of Gavin DeGraw's new album, Free. Check out the video posted at the bottom!

Not joking, when this song plays on my iPod, YouTube videos, car CD rack, or just acapella in the shower - I suddenly transform to the Freedom Hall stage rocking to my favorite 19,000 fans, playing on my sweet baby grand with a funk you can't fake.
So, you know mine, now it's your turn. Twitter us (@kystatefair for the tweet lingo), Facebook us, MySpace us your favorite lyrics from your favorite Kentucky State Fair Main Stage Concert Series performer.

You're not friends with us on all three networks, well, there's no better time than right now to sign up. Seriously, do it now, add a new tab on that web browser of yours. Windows Users- CTRL-T and Mac Folks - Apple Key-T!

Throughout the next few months and as the summer weather warms up our creative minds, we will be posting various promotions, important information, deadlines, et cetera on our pages. Well, like below!

Keith Urban/Pat Green ticket interest is already buzzing through the fiber-optic phone lines and e-mail servers. Through various radio stations, the Fair has set up opportunities for you (yeah, you in the barcalonger surfing the web to find the best April Fool’s Pranks on YouTube) to win Keith Urban packages.

In Frankfort ---
Froggy 104.9 will be giving away numerous tickets during their Live Action Broadcasts.
In Louisville ---
97.5 WAMZ will have their Beat the Box Office game
In Lexington ---
Keep it tuned to 98.1 the Bull for tons of KU promotions including a very “Door Number 1 vs. Door Number 2-like” game called the Mooo Crew 5,4,3,2,1 Giveaway
In Owensboro ---
Climb aboard the “Urban” Outfitter with 92.5 WBKR for tons of ticket options
In E-Town ---
Two weeks of contests make 94.3 the Wolf the Keith Urban party headquarters for all of you E-townians.

So, do us a couple favors turn to your favorite station to listen out for ticket giveaways and send us your favorite song lyrics by your KSF artists.
Gavin DeGraw singing an acoustic version of Free
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1ysF9Q9IWGA

Brighten Your Day with new Fair Music

2009-05-06T11:29:00.000-07:00

My favorite Christmas song goes, "the weather outside is frightful..." and today just feels like one of those days. Whether you are gloomed about the 15-year series finale of ER tomorrow or confused about the Dharma clan on LOST or just flat tired of rain and cold weather, you can smile a little brighter because we are working hard at making the Kentucky State Fair your summer fun headquarters.

Various Main Stage Concert Series performers have had recent album releases.
Kelly Clarkson - All I Ever Wanted
Keith Urban - Defying Gravity
Gavin DeGraw - FREE

Pick 'em up, download them, borrow them, whatever you need to do listen to them. Seriously, I want you and me to sing together in the crowd (with our cell phones raised high) come August!!!
Until then, read a quote from the genius animator Walt Disney, "We keep moving forward, opening new doors, and doing new things, because we're curious and curiosity keeps leading us down new paths."

This is what we try to do at the Kentucky State Fair.

Scouring the Networks

2009-05-06T11:27:00.000-07:00

With the first Main Stage concert announced and already on sale, the Kentucky State Fair planning/execution is in full swing - actually it’s been in full swing for weeks, just "VH1 Behind the Music" kind of style. If you are cross-networker, don't forget to check out our Twitter and MySpace pages.

twitter.com/kystatefair
www.myspace.com/364300733

We do the thing online all day! It's your fair at the 2009 Kentucky State Fair, so just let us hear your opinion!

Kentucky State Fair Concerts

2009-05-06T11:21:00.000-07:00

Kelly Clarkson with special guest Gavin DeGraw
8 p.m. Thursday, August 20, 2009
Freedom Hall
Tickets: $47 and $52 (Reserved Seating)Price includes admission to Kentucky State Fair and $2 facility fee

Journey and TBA
8 p.m. Friday, August 21, 2009
Freedom HallPrice(s) to be announced

Keith Urban LIVE with special guest Pat Green
8 p.m. Saturday, August 22, 2009
Freedom Hall
Tickets: $52 & $67 (Reserved Seating) Price includes admission to Kentucky State Fair and $2 facility fee

Taylor Swift "Fearless Tour 2009" with special guests Kellie Pickler and Gloriana
7 p.m. Sunday, August 30, 2009
Freedom Hall
Tickets: $27, $47 and $57 (Reserved Seating) Price includes admission to Kentucky State Fair and $2 facility fee