When September rolls around, thoughts turn to school starting again. But before the weather turns cool and the leaves start to fall, it's time to "Do the Puyallup!" The Western Washington State Fair has drawn residents and visitors to the Puyallup fairgrounds since 1900. It was certainly the highlight of September for me when I was in High School! This year the Puyallup Fair runs from September 8 - 24.

What will you find at the Puyallup Fair? Plenty. Agricultural exhibits, a rodeo, concerts, school performances, rides and more.

For the cowboy (or girl) in the family there's the Puyallup Rodeo, complete with Bull riding, Bareback riding, Saddle Bronc, Steer Wrestling, Team Roping, Tie-down Roping and Barrel Racing. And don't miss the opening day Western Rodeo Parade and Cattle Drive on Friday the 9th. When else can you see cattle walking down Meridian Street? Entrance to the Fair is free until noon on Friday.

Other animal exhibits include the Petting Farm, Piglet Palace, Draft Horse Driving Demonstrations, 4-H and Animals of the World. If you love animals, you won't want to miss the Budweiser Clydesdales, visiting the Puyallup Fair for five days only: September 21-25. Make your way over to the Paulhamus Arena for daily (except Monday) performances by the Royal Canadian Mounted Police.

For the young and the young at heart there are first class performers that span the spectrum of musical styles, performing in the Grandstand. The Puyallup Fair 2005 Concert Series includes the Four Tops and the Temptations, Kelly Clarkson, Patti Labelle, ZZ Top, Lee Ann Womack, Hoobastank, Hilary Duff and many more.

Visit the Education Stage to hear local talent from schools all over Washington. Choirs, bands, dance groups and more will entertain here. School day has always been a favorite with students and a great opportunity for children to exhibit their talents. My High School German class always made potato pancakes and demonstrated the Duck dance. Check the website calendar for the different school days.

If rides are more your style of entertainment, you won't be disappointed. The Puyallup Fair has rides that spin, drop, swing and more. Everything from the Tilt-a-Whirl to the Wild Cat to the Zipper and the new Jumping and Zero Gravity, is ready to thrill you. For the smallest members of your family there are plenty of rides in Kiddyland.

Also for the children are meet and greets with favorite characters like Dora the Explorer, Clifford the Big Red Dog and SpongeBob Squarepants. Kids can have their pictures taken with the Incredible Hulk or Spiderman or hang out with the Rugrats. Check the Fair website for more information and the appearance schedule.

When you�re ready for a change of pace, check out the many exhibit halls. Browse the Home Arts and Hobby Hall exhibits, stroll through the International Photo Salon and the Fine Art Pavilion. Visit the special exhibit by World Class artist Rie Munoz. Visit the Floral and Horticultural exhibits.

The Puyallup Fair has something for everyone, and much more than what�s included here. For the full schedule of all shows and exhibits, as well as admission and parking information, visit the Puyallup Fair website: http://www.thefair.com, and get ready to �Do the Puyallup!�

*Pictures C 2005 by Kenn Lane. Used with permission.

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