State Fair time

We have FIVE days left of the Alaska State Fair. If you haven’t gone yet this year, plan on fitting it in before it is over. The fair is our grand goodbye to Summer.

Monsoon Rains Don’t Stop Us—We have had some hearty rains. Heavy showers and dark clouds do not stop the fair activities. Added attractions to the fair at this time include some AMAZING puddles. These rather extensive new water bodies add an entirely new dimension to the fair. First of all you need to dress for the weather and that definitely includes rubber boots. Just look at the children ignoring the rides while they go splashing through new little lakes. Take a hint from their smiles, puddles are not bad. But don’t allow your feet to get moist. And wear a jacket with a hood and pack a tiny umbrella.

Where to Go When It’s Raining—The very best time to visit the Exhibits is during a rainy day. You won’t have the urge to hurry and because of that you will fully appreciate the talent and craftsmanship of the hundreds of homemade projects on display. Sit down and watch the quilt show. Ponder the woodworkers. Look carefully at the pieces of art.

Most Peaceful Spot—After decades of fair-going, it’s finally confirmed; the most peaceful spot at the fair is watching the weavers, the spinners, the carders, the lace makers and the knitters. This talented group of fiber makers are gentle and skilled. Their methodical work is mesmerizing and inspiring. They are not looking for fame nor fortune. They are doing what they love and they do it well. Many of them are local and their needles, bobbins, trestles, wheels and looms are a part of their life. They choose to share their craft with us outsiders. And we are grateful. If you need a piece of peace, go hang out with them at the fiber and fleece exhibits in the Irwin Building.

Another Reason to Go—The gardens at the Alaska State Fair are extraordinary. Absolutely everywhere you look at the fair are flowers. And the flowers are not common. There are beds of annuals and full perennial gardens. There are artichokes and sweet peas and unusual trees. There is a multitude of plants grown just for us to enjoy. The decorative gardens sometimes get overlooked but if you are a Valley resident, this is your chance to see botanical wonder at our fair.

Animal Neighborhood at the Fairgrounds— After the animals arrive at the fairgrounds there is some settling in. The pigs are introduced to other pigs from other farms. This is not always a happy time. Although the fencing keeps the animals separate, there is still some arrival chaos. After a day or two, everyone kind of relaxes. Everyone sort of learns to get along. We can take a lesson from these animals, I think. Sheep seem to be pretty mellow most of the time although they are still curious. Goats seem to be energized by the atmosphere. Rabbits and chickens don’t seem to care. However roosters and the geese seem to have a lot of complaints.

Perfect Palmer Petting Zoo—This is another one of those blissful places at the fair. If cute baby animals and cuter children don’t kick start endorphins, then nothing will. The three little brown pigs are all snuggled up in a relaxed pile. The baby goats are dancing sideways and climbing on anything available, including the sheep. The young heifer just loves at you with the deepest brown eyes. This is a place of appreciation for all creatures. The children truly treasure this simple place and it is often their favorite story of the fair.

Palmer Pedestrian Nirvana—Walking, wandering, prancing or strolling—The Alaska State Fair is pedestrian! For people that like to walk, there is simply nothing like the fair. Attaching a Fit-bit or a pedometer will be a rewarding reveal. Some of the daily workers have clocked more than 10 miles a day at the fair!

Whiners will say, “It’s the Same Old Fair,” But Whiners are Wrong— A lot of things have changed up at the fair. Different booth locations, new booths, new foods, rescue dogs, and the baby goatapalooza. There are thousands of brand new entries in the exhibits sections of the fair. These entries include original pieces of art, sculptures, kombuchu, spirits, local wine, clay yarn bowls, wooden spools, exotic quilts, mardi gras dresses, woven tapestries, and photographs—so beautiful—it will make you cry.

Go to the Fair and be careful. You can do it. And you won’t be disappointed.

Barbara Hunt is both Palmer writer and artist. She works hard to keep the robust pulse of Palmer, Alaska. She shares the good stuff in the weekly Palmer Alaska Buzz Column in the Mat Su Valley Frontiersman and daily on the Palmer Alaska Buzz Facebook Group. She is also the creator of the annual Palmer Community Calendar. Contact at bhunt@mtaonline.net or text 907.315.3222.