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Free things you can do at the Oklahoma State Fair

A temporary paradise of carnival rides, concerts and caloric foods has returned to the Sooner State. 

The Oklahoma State Fair kicks off today and runs through Sunday, Sept. 22. Guests attending tonight can take advantage of discounted $2 gate admission and a free concert from country music star Kevin Fowler. Those planning to come on Tuesday, Sept. 17, will enjoy $2 admission, $2 Sky Eye Wheel tickets and $2 carnival rides. 

While there are plenty of vendors ready to take your money in exchange for a heart-racing thrill or greasy dinner entree, there are also several free exhibits which showcase the best in Oklahoma living and culture. 

The Talon has highlighted several of these exhibits to help you enjoy the state fair on a budget.  

Oklahoma Frontier Experience: The Oklahoma Frontier Experience has displayed the best in Oklahoma western culture and agriculture for more than a decade. Guests set to make an appearance this year include Rider Keisner, the world’s fastest rope and gun spinner. Native American hoop dancer Bruce Neconie will perform his impressive storytelling ritual daily during afternoon shows. Charro Gabriel Hernandez, 14, one of the youngest performing charros, is set to showcase his horse riding talents during evening shows.

Renaissance Village: Just north of the Oklahoma Frontier Experience lies the Renaissance Village, where cowboys and Indians give way to knights and jesters. Jousters and longbow shooters will provide entertainment while vendors serve up medieval favorites like turkey legs. A King and Queen will stand guard over the jousting arena, which sits at the center of Renaissance Village. Middle Eastern dancers and Celtic musicians also will grace this stage. 

AGtropolis: With several exhibits and daily agricultural demonstrations, AGtropolis is one of the fair’s most visited exhibits. Demonstrations this year will include honey extraction, soap making, alpaca wool working and milk production. Live cattle and chickens will showcase the process of beef and egg production.

Auto Show: The latest and greatest in automobiles—including new models from Chevy, Ford and Dodge—will be on display at the Pavilion.

Creative Arts Exhibits: Oklahoma artists and crafters will showcase their best work at the Creative Arts Building. Also look out for demonstrations of unique art disciplines.

Gentle Giants of Express: Standing 6 feet tall and weighing in at more than 2,000 pounds, the Express Clydesdales might seem intimidating at first but are actually gentle in nature. These majestic horses can be found at the Super Barn.

Great American Petting Zoo: Goats, llamas and deer run freely in this petting zoo located on the west lawn of the Oklahoma Expo Center.

A Grizzly Experience: New this year, watch a man interact with a grizzly bear and give tips on how you should respond if you encounter one in the wild.

The Hands-On Spot: Test your physical, mental and creative capabilities at the Hands-On Spot, located inside the Modern Living Building. Several games and physical activities, including pickleball and life-size chess, are available for people of all ages. Creatives can show off their abilities at the Storyville Puppet Theatre or Creation Station.

Oklahoma Student Art Exhibits: Oklahoma’s best young artisans show off their work in this art show, located inside the Oklahoma Contemporary Arts Center.

Pirate Magic of Rafael and Katia: This pirate-themed illusion show will leave you laughing and amazed. Takes place at the Plaza Stage.

Spirit of Oklahoma Plaza: Sculptures and displays honor the history of Oklahoma and the state fair at the Spirit of Oklahoma Plaza, located north of the Creative Arts Building.

Swifty Swine pig races: Have you ever seen a pig run as fast as possible in pursuit of a cookie at the end of the track? If not, there is an opportunity to do so at this year’s state fair. Pig races will take place at the Entertainment Plaza.

Vintage America Glamping Cooking Show: Surrounded by 1950s decor, watch chef Melody Boyer cook up Oklahoma culinary favorites inside the Creative Arts Building.

 

 

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