“I love this fair! Do the Puyallup” is this year’s theme for the 2004 Western Washington Fair through Sept. 26 in Puyallup.
Traditional fair offerings are dished up in large amounts. Grange displays, animals and quilts are just a few of the draws at the Puyallup fair. Cooking contests remain a favorite and grandstand entertainers such as Bill Cosby and ZZ Top return.
New events and activities include the Western Rodeo Parade and Cattle Drive at 10 a.m. today. The parade features Pacific Lutheran University’s former football coach Frosty Westering as grand marshal; Garfield and SpongeBob Squarepants also make appearances. Equestrian teams and high school marching bands round out the parade with a rodeo flair.
ToonzVille is a new building created specifically for children. A Crafty Creation Station gives kids a hands-on opportunity to create some crafts. The ToonzVille Cinema offers up cartoon clips, and a shopping mall provides souvenirs.
Making appearances in ToonzVille are some favorite cartoon characters. Garfield is at the fair daily. SpongeBob Squarepants appears Saturday through Monday. The Amazing Spider-Man swings into the fair Sept. 17 and 18. Dora the Explorer finds her way to the fair Sept. 19 through 21. Clifford the Big Red Dog teaches messages of respect, sharing and caring, Sept. 22 through 26. The Fairly Odd Parents appear Sept. 24 through 26.
In addition to special appearances, Garfield will have a daily live stage show, “Happy Birthday to Me,” at 1, 3, 5 and 7 p.m. weekdays. An 11 a.m. show is added on weekends.
For those art lovers out there, Charles Wysocki’s works will be displayed during the fair. A collection of his calendar covers will be shown and sold. A wide range of merchandise and prints will also be available. Wysocki’s widow Elizabeth and son Matt will be on hand to sign items today and Saturday.
In recognition of the military men and women who are active, reserve and retired members, and their dependents, free gate admission will be offered with valid military ID this Monday.
Seniors are honored Tuesdays. Music at Showplace Stage is slated for a senior audience. Special admission will be offered.
Latino Celebration Day is Sept. 19 and features the salsa sounds of El Mariachi Quicas, Latino beat of Banda Vagos and performances by the colorfully dressed Joyas Mestizas Dancers.
In addition to a great lineup of grandstand entertainment, check out the PRCA Rodeo today through Sunday. Reba McEntire, Brooks &Dunn with newcomer Gretchen Wilson, and Styx with REO Speedwagon are just some of the entertainers this year.
For those looking to spend a lot of time on the midway and Kiddyland rides at the fair, the Dizzy Pass and Super Dizzy Pass offer special discounts for rides.
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