City: Tampa Bay, FL

Category: Annual Events & Festivals

Telephone: (813) 621-7821, 1-800-345-FAIR

Address: 4800 U.S. 301 N.

Description: All of Florida, it seems, converges on Tampa each February for a 12-day celebration of all things Florida! Walk through the Rabbit and Poultry Barn to see myriad breeds of chickens, for instance, or to watch a costumed demonstrator spin yarn from the fur of a rabbit sitting on her lap. Try your hand at milking a cow, or watch a lamb being born in the Moo-ternity Ward. Dog shows and equestrian events test both animals and their trainers. Move on to the Florida Living Center where Florida woodworkers display fine furniture they have created, and students from across the state display their artwork. Watch soap being made in Cracker Country, and see a Florida panther at the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission Exhibit. The midway has all those twisty-turny, whirly-swirly rides, including some milder rides for little tykes, and games. The La Plaza Hispanic Village hosts a daily lineup of bilingual activities and entertainment, and local performers fill smaller stages throughout the fairgrounds. Top-name entertainers like Mickey Gilley, Ronnie Milsap, and Helen Cornelius draw crowds to the larger stages. Admission at the gate is $12 for adults and $6 for children ages 6 to 11. Children age 5 and under are free. Pay full price if you must, but you can save as much as a third (pay $8 or $4) by buying tickets before the first day of the fair at various local stores. The fair also offers Senior Days, Student Days, and other discounts. Wristbands for the midway rides start at $25; again, look for discounted days and times. Credit cards are accepted for admission and concert tickets (Gate 1). Gates open at 9 a.m. each day. Midway and closing hours vary. No pets, no re-entry, and no grumps allowed—it’s the fair! Call the office for information about camping spaces at the fairgrounds.