State Fairs have been a highlight of the year across the United States. They were originally organized as a showcase for agricultural products but traditionally included music, rides, music, and competitions ranging from rodeos to auto racing.

While agriculture no longer plays a major role in metro Atlanta’s economy (except for the consumption of the agricultural end products) the tradition of the state fair lives on in the 92nd Annual North Georgia State Fair, to be held in Jim Miller Fairgrounds, 2245 Callaway Road in Marietta, September 19-29.

The fair is sponsored by Superior Plumbing.

According to the news release from Cobb PARKS, the event draws more than 300,000 visitors annually from North Georgia and neighboring states.

The news release states:

Enjoy a variety of free attractions, including farm animals, flower shows, local entertainment, and blue ribbon competitions. Indulge in delicious fair foods, and try your luck with games and thrilling rides on the Great James H. Drew Exposition midway, featuring the Wildcat Rollercoaster, Georgia Mountain Lift, and the Mega Slide.

The following shows on the schedule are free with fair admission and held in a covered area.
• Piccolo Zoppe Circus: Sept. 19 – 23
• Demolition Derby: Sept. 25
• Full Throttle Monster Trucks: Sept. 26
• American Bull Riders Tour: Sept. 27 – 29

Admission is $10, and children under 10 are admitted for free.

Ride tickets are $1.25 each, $20 for 21 tickets, $50 for 55 tickets, $100 for 120 tickets. Parking is $5.00, but bring cash as the parking is cash only.

A new feature is Advance Pay-One-Price Ride Tickets: $23.95 (Good for one day. Does not include admission. Online purchase only, available through Sept. 18)

You can get a discount admission: $5 (Available at metro Atlanta O’Reilly Auto Parts stores in September; children 10 and under are free)

The hours of the fair are as follows:
• Monday – Thursday: 4 p.m. – 11 p.m.
• Friday: 4 p.m. – midnight
• Saturday: 10 a.m. – midnight
• Sunday: 12:30 p.m. – 10 p.m.

The news release gives the following safety requirements for the event:
• Youth attendance: After 6 p.m., anyone under 17 must be accompanied by a parent.
• Bag policy: Only clear bags (up to 12” x 6” x 12”) allowed. One-gallon clear freezer bags and small clutches (up to 4.5” x 6.5”) permitted. Diaper bags may be searched.
• Gate entry: No entry after 9 p.m. Sunday – Thursday, and after 10 p.m. Friday – Saturday.

For more information, visit the website here or call 770-423-1330 or 770-528-8989.