Alaska State Fair

What do you think of when you think of going to the fair? If you're like most, it's bright lights, cotton candy, ferris wheels, merry-g0-rounds and cute critters in the animal exhibits. The Alaska State Fair has all that and more. From the top of the ferris wheel, you look down on not just the fairgrounds but the surrounding mountains, an awe-inspiring view. Kids flock to rides while their parents chuckle as the browse through the Salmon on Parade exhibit.

The merry-go-round, with its majestic, brightly colored steeds circles endlessly, delighting those to cowardly or perhaps even sensibly "mature" to tackle the more thrilling rides. It's a time to forget your troubles or, here in Alaska, the approaching winter, and simply remember what it was like to be a kid again. Ol' fashioned and a bit hookey, true, but fun.