NASHVILLE, Tenn. – The Tennessee State Fair kicks off Friday night at the state fairgrounds in Nashville.
Workers were on hand Friday morning setting up before it officially opens at 5 p.m. An opening ceremony is scheduled from 6:30 p.m. to 7 p.m. at Midway in front of the Ferris Wheel.
The theme for this year's fair is "Pick Tennessee State Fair."
The fair will have several new events and exhibits in 2012. Some include equine events in a new sand equestrian ring; free concerts daily; a Green Collar Exhibit featuring several sustainable living seminars and exhibits; and Champion of Champions in Poultry and Junior Dairy.
It's the first year the fair will operate as a state-run venture. A new law was passed this year after Metro tried to bulldoze the fairgrounds and race track and turn it into a mixed use development.
The fair runs through September 16. Discounted tickets are available if fairgoers bring a non-winning Tennessee Lottery ticket to the gate.
For more information about the Tennessee State Fair, please visit www.tnstatefair.org.
