Georgia National Fair Welcomes Autumn

Living through the summer months in Georgia can be defined as "pure survival." As the temperature rises, so do our cooling bills, due to the 100-degree temperatures and the energy-sapping humidity. But somewhere around the beginning of October, a change begins to take place. The humidity level drops, the temperature falls and cool, comfortable mornings and warm, pleasant afternoons begin to make up our days. The arrival of autumn and the end of the summer heat's tyranny over central and south Georgia are heralded by a grand event: the Georgia National Fair.

If you have ever imagined and longed for the old-time images of southern fairs, where farmers display their livestock and other wares and hundreds of food vendors peddle their funnel cakes, barbeque chicken legs, and cotton candy, then perhaps you should make a visit to the Georgia National Fairgrounds in Perry, GA this October 4-14. "The Georgia National Fair provides an atmosphere which encourages everyone to walk around, observe, and educate themselves about the varied aspects of agriculture, Georgia's largest industry," said James E. Sutherland, chairman of the Georgia Agricultural Exposition Authority.

As is the tradition with fairs of this type, visitors will be treated to a grand exhibition of Georgia agriculture with farmers and ranchers displaying their cattle, horses, and other animals along with samples of their crops. It is great time for children to see these types of animals and to learn about how they are raised and the purposes for which they are raised and cared for. Also the Fair will have numerous exhibitions including paintings and drawings by local artists, sewing and similar crafts, and cooking competitions.

In addition to those great traditions the Fair always has top-notch entertainment for everyone to enjoy. This year patrons can enjoy evening concerts by Los Lonely Boys, Daultry (of American Idol fame), Day of Fire, and Dierks Bentley. Fair concert tickets start at $15.00 and include Fair admission.

Perhaps the Fair's highlight for the young and young-at-heart is the Reithoffer Midway, the section of the Fair that includes some of the best Fair rides you can find. There are haunted house rides, rides that take you upside-down, rides that spin you, twirl you, and shake you. The Midway also includes tons of carnival games and ways to win prizes. The Midway brings back the old tradition of old-fashioned carnivals.

Now for those who have to travel to visit the Fair, Perry has many different lodging choices. Major hotel chains such as , Hampton Inn, and Jameson Inn are here. Also there are locally-owned hotels like the . Or if hotels are not your thing you can try the posh country resort. There are also numerous RV camping locales available for you.

If you are a Georgia resident or you will be passing through Georgia this October, make room in your plans to attend the Georgia National Fair.