By ADAM STATEN
WISH-TV | wishtv.com
It’s a little less than a week until the 2021 Indiana State Fair gets underway.
The state fair is near and dear to many Hoosiers, for a variety of reasons. Whether it’s because of the food, entertainment or the animals, there are a number of reasons to check out the fair.
Photo provided
Whatever may bring you out to the annual festival, the Indiana State Fair has announced 10 more things for the 2021 fair.
- Budweiser Clydesdales
Known for their extreme strength and striking appearance, the iconic Budweiser Clydesdales are some of the most recognizable animals in the country, and now you can see them while visiting the State Fair. These majestic horses will be located just inside Gate 12 north of the Farm Bureau Building, or you can catch them in the Daily Parade.
- Forever Forest
Explore how all our lives are connected to forests in the all-new Forever Forest exhibit. Presented by Indiana Hardwood Lumbermen’s Association, Forever Forest is an interactive exhibit where children can play and learn about sustainability, selective harvesting, transportation needs, and the everyday products we use that are made from trees. This exciting new exhibit is located at the Farm Bureau Building and is open daily from 9 a.m. to 8 p.m.
- Double Decker Carousel
The 2021 Indiana State Fair will feature a brand, new ride – the Double Decker Carousel. Located just west of the Hoosier Lottery Grandstand, the Double Decker Carousel features two levels of beautifully handcrafted figures, completed with tigers, zebras, and giraffes. Don’t miss a ride on this timeless classic, now twice as nice.
- The Mighty Mike Show
Step right up … the Mighty Mike Show is coming to the 2021 Indiana State Fair. Witness Mighty Mike juggle bowling balls and sledgehammers as if light as a feather while dressed in a 1920s-style bathing suit. Prepare to be amazed as he bends horseshoes and tears decks of cards, but try not to laugh at his goofy dance routines. Shows will take place daily in Hoosier Spirit Park at 1, 2:30, 4, 5, and 6:30 p.m.
- Bubble Tower
Come visit the Family Fun Park to witness the world’s biggest bubble toy in action. This machine is a solar-powered attraction sure to delight fairgoers all day, every day. Stop by for some bubble popping fun and to soak in the beauty of shiny bubbles floating through the hot summer air. Just follow the bubbles.
- Backyard Brats & Brews
Looking for a shady spot to sit back and relax during your visit to the State Fair? Located in Hoosier Spirit Park, Backyard Brats and Brews is the perfect place to grab a cold beverage, grilled brats, and other snacks while enjoying live music and yard games. With its unique “backyard barbeque” atmosphere, this family-friendly area is great for all ages. Stop by Backyard Brats & Brews open from noon to 9 p.m. daily during the Fair.
- The Great American Duck Race
One water track, four racing lanes, unlimited smiles. Whether you’re chosen to participate or not, everyone’s a winner at the Great American Duck Race. Learn about Mallard ducks and watch them splash to the finish line while you cheer on your favorite. Located in the Family Fun Park, this unique and educational show takes place at 10:30 a.m., 12:30 p.m., 2:30 p.m., 4:30 p.m., and 6 p.m. daily.
- Street Drum Corps
Street Drum Corps is a world-renowned, high-energy, drum and percussion show, as seen on America’s Got Talent, American Idol, MasterChef, Glee, MTV and numerous professional sporting events. The group has a punk-rock sound and uses unique instruments, such as garbage cans, rain barrels, kitchenware, recycled products, and even power tools. Catch their daily performances at the Fair starting at 11 a.m., 1 p.m., 3 p.m., and 4:30 p.m. Shows will take place at the Family Fun Park July 30 through Aug. 1 (Opening Weekend) and will take place at the Gate 12 Kids’ Zone for the remainder of the Fair (Aug. 4-22).
- The Paul Bunyan Lumberjack Show
Filled with action-packed competition and lots of laughs, it’s the Paul Bunyan Lumberjack Show. The show features quality lumberjack competitors known throughout the world for their strength, skill, and athletic ability. Stop by the WGU Indiana Parklet to see them compete in events like log rolling and axe throwing. Shows start at 12:30, 2, 3:30, 5:30, and 7 p.m. daily.
- Animal Yoga
The Indiana State Fair is excited to offer animal yoga this year, featuring some of your favorite animals including goats, pigs, bunnies, and lambs. These cute animals will climb, cuddle, and entertain as you partake in a 45-minute beginner-level yoga session. Yoga sessions will take place at 10 and 11:30 a.m. on July 31, 10 a.m. and noon on Aug. 1, 6 p.m. on Aug. 12, 6 p.m. on Aug. 18, and 6 p.m. on Aug. 19. Each session costs $35 per ticket and includes admission to the Fair. Space is limited, so make sure to register now at IndianaStateFair.com and secure your spot.
The 2021 Indiana State Fair runs from July 30 to Aug. 22.