Fairgoers walk past one of the the sideshows on Nov. 6, 2008, at the North Florida Fair in Tallahassee. (PHIL SEARS/Democrat)
November 5, 2009
Flying dogs, racing pigs featured at fair
By Jennifer Portman, DEMOCRAT senior WRITER
Corn dogs, pig races, stomach-churning carnival rides — must be fair time!
The 68th edition of the North Florida Fair kicks off its annual 11-day run today.
The Giant Wheel towering over South Monroe Street starts turning at 5 p.m., when the gates open on the usual collection of agricultural exhibits, commercial interests, rides, games, fried food and other curiosities.
Of special interest this year is a portrait display of the 233 Floridians who have died serving the nation in Iraq and Afghanistan.
"It is a tribute to our fallen soldiers," said fair manager Mark Harvey.
New this year on the fair's family-oriented entertainment line up is the K9 Kings Flying Dog Show, a group of acrobatic American Indian Dogs featured on Animal Planet.
Also, returning after three years is the popular Wild World of Animals show, featuring a variety of rare animals.
Those acts join the crowd-pleasing Show me Swine Racers.
"People love those pigs," Harvey said. "They hustle around the track for an Oreo."
The Orlando-based Strates Shows is also back for a second year on the Midway with carnival games and more than 65 rides — all brought to Tallahassee on a 61-car train.
"We've got more rides this year than we've ever had," Harvey said.
Additional Facts if you go
What: The North Florida Fair
Where: Fairgrounds, 441 Paul Russell Road.
When: Today through Nov. 15. Gates open tonight at 5 p.m.
Gate admission: $7 for adults; $4 youths 6-12; free for kids 5 and younger. (Ride tickets cost additional)
Fair information line: (850) 671-8400.
Check Friday's Limelight in the Tallahassee Democrat for more on this year's fair.
