The Puyallup Spring Fair

If you are looking for a local outdoor travel event to take advantage of the warm sunny spring temperatures this weekend, check out the Puyallup Spring Fair. The event kicked off April 16th and continues through Sunday, April 19th. This is not your typical fall harvest fair, but with all the other same great events you would find in August and September.  
 
Great gardening tips from the Garden Show should be top on your list to prepare for spring planting. Expert workshops, vendors, display gardens, and a floral design contest will give you a bounty of information to make your garden flourish this year. Just in time to help you save money during these harder economic times.
 
Every great fair has the animals, and what better time of year to see the younglings but in the spring. There are also exhibits for pygmy goats, llamas, and miniature horses.
 
The Creative Kids exhibit provides unique art project opportunities for the little ones ages 6-15, and don’t forget to sign them up for the Egg Drop Contest on April 19th at 3:00 p.m. The Pirate Adventure, with shows throughout Saturday and Sunday, allows kid audience members to participate in the show. Be sure to check out face painting and a magic show at the fair, also free.
 
Looking for something a little more daring? The Slamfest Demolition Derby is Saturday, April 18th at 6:00 p.m. rain or shine. Watch as local daredevils tout their crash up skills. Tickets must be purchased at the gate, and includes the cost of fair admission. Kids 3-5 are free on an adult’s lap. Grandstands open at 5:00 p.m.
 
If culture is what you want, Fiesta Mexicana provides entertainment from traditional Mexican bands, dancing horses, authentic food, and unique vendors. Kids can learn to make traditional masks.
 
The top two must-dos at the fair: Food and Rides. This is what a fair is all about! Food fair is cooked in trans-fat free oils, so you won’t feel so guilty as you reach for another French fry or deep fried pastry. The Park Bistro provides Washington wines, microbrews and northwest cuisine. Fifteen kiddy rides will let your kids squeal with delight. Nineteen rides line the midway, including the old faves, including the Scrambler, and the notorious Extreme Scream. Rides take 4-7 tickets, and tickets are $0.75 each, or purchase a Ride Saver pack at participating stores on your way to the fair. Rides open at 10:00 a.m. on Saturday and Sunday.
 
Discounted tickets can be purchased at participating Safeway and Fred Meyer stores, Columbia Bank, or the South Hill Mall. You can also purchase the tickets online and print them from your home or buy them at the gate. Tickets are $8 for adults and $7 for ages 6-18.