During the first 10 days of September the small state of Vermont is aglow with the lights from its state fair in Rutland, Vermont. The admission prices to the fairgrounds are about the average price compared to that of other state fairs; maybe even a little cheaper when you include the family day, dollar day and patron appreciation day. Family day costs a little more to get in at the gate per person, but you'll find that all the rides are included. Dollar Day is self-explanatory and Patron Appreciation Day is free, but the rides aren't! Often the state fair hosts a small circus and thrill show. Visitors to the fair will sit on the edge of their seats when watching the death defying motorcycle stunts in a hollow metal cage or to see a man being shot out of a cannon. Magic Shows are popular and visitors can almost always find a show on the grounds. For a more lighthearted theme head over to the Agricultural Area and watch the racing pigs run their courses daily. Separate races include both the large but lovable potbellied pigs and the smaller pink farm pigs trotting along on their hoofs. Don't worry about walking into a mud wallow, these racers love their public personas and always clean up before the race. Other animal shows and activities that can be enjoyed at the state fair include an interactive petting zoo with camel rides, a medieval horse show, Clydesdale horses, and of course the winners of the animal judging contests. If you love the agricultural aspect of the state fair then check out the many exhibits of local fruits and veggies in the aptly named Agricultural Building. There are baskets of gourds, giant pumpkins and even vases upon vases filled with prize winning flowers. There is also a Farm Museum on the grounds where visitors can see the many implements and techniques that have been used by farmers to grow our crops. |