It was a perfect day at the Indiana State Fair. The sky was clear, the lines were short and the food was unique and terrific. As a veteran of the USMC and the Air Force Reserve, it was the best day to take my family to the Fair. We were greeted by smiling faces and a hearty thank you for our service; my wife Mary is also a veteran of the U.S. Air Force and Air Force Reserve.  The parking and entry was free and there was a full day of activities, shows, rides and food.

We entered the fairgrounds and witnessed a live log rolling show. There was a crowd surrounding the stage area and we managed to find an opening to view the comical antics of the two lumberjacks. After the show we crossed the covered bridge that opens to an amazing world of rides, booths and food stands. We picked up a few ride tickets and started our day with great expectations.

The State Fair is the place to be to find the heart and soul of Indiana.  In the 4H building was walls and walls of displays the youth have put together to show what they have been learning about environment, science and some woodwork. Other exhibits included live farm animals, music and a tractor show with a parade around the park. My favorite exhibit was at the Toyota Expo Hall.

The Toyota Expo Hall Celebrates the Indiana communities, with various regions of 92 counties, from Adams to Whitley. There were also several business represented there. My favorite came from Clinton County. The name was Shoup’s Country. Shoup’s specializes in catering, quality meats and take home spices and sauces.  I was offered a taste of their pulled pork with barbecue sauce. It was delicious. Their business has been in the family for three generations and is defiantly an Indian home classic.

The best thing about the fair this year is they are running it for an extra week. There is a lot to experience and share with your friends and family. I would definitely recommend everyone in Indiana to experience the fair this year.

Please view a few related photos on the Knight Surfer’s Realm.