167th Indiana State Fair Kicks Off with Food, Fun,

Source: Ryan Hedrick / WIBC Radio

INDIANAPOLIS — The Indiana State Fair is back with lots of food, fun, concerts, and agricultural exhibits and competitions. This is the 167th Indiana State Fair, and this year’s theme is “The Art & Nature of Fun, Presented by Newfields.”

Inflation has been a major concern for Hoosier families. To help, the fair offers discount days, including $2 Tuesdays on August 6 and August 13, and a $5 Value Menu. The Dairy Bar also has grilled cheese sandwiches and milkshakes for just five dollars.

“You just don’t find those prices anywhere,” says Indiana Dairy’s communications director, Brooke Williams. “It’s essential for Indiana dairy farm families to keep the prices that way.”

Elephant ears are a favorite at the fair. Kara Ravenscroft from Red Barn Elephant Ears explains how they’re made.

“So we have a dough mix that we make, and we keep it fresh as we go,” says Ravenscroft. We put the elephant ears in the fryer and cook them until they’re golden brown, and then we put butter, cinnamon, and sugar on them.”

Last year, the fair started a policy requiring anyone under 18 to be with someone 21 or older. State Police reported that this led to a significant decrease in fights and disruptions.

“This is a great fair, and they have a lot of great events,” added Keegan. “The music they bring you with the free stage is great family time.

Parking at the fairgrounds costs $10 per vehicle and is available from 6 a.m. to 8 p.m. in the Infield, South Lot (38th Street), and at the Indiana School for the Deaf (42nd Street).

The Indiana State Fair opens on Friday and runs until August 18 at the Indiana State Fairgrounds. It will be closed on Mondays, August 5, and August 12.