PALMER, Alaska (KTUU) – The sounds of rides and the smell of fairground food are back as the Alaska State Fair officially opened to the public Friday.

The event, which has been running for nearly 90 years, officially opened its doors at 11 a.m., and although the day began with windy weather, long-time fairgoer Miranda Mahle said that didn’t stop her from showing up.

“No, you just have to prepare yourself,” said Mahle.

This year she is looking forward to the many food stalls, rides and face painting, she said.

“I have so many memories of my childhood and youth and of doing these things. And now I can do this with my daughter. It’s great,” said Mahle.

This year the fair will feature around 75 different food stalls and dozens of vendors set up around the fairgrounds, as well as 14 concerts at the Borealis Theatre.

Fair visitors can also view a free memorial exhibition about Princess Diana.

Jeff Curtis, CEO of the Alaska State Fair, said opening day is the culmination of a lot of preparation.

“It takes over 12 months of planning and preparation,” Curtis said Friday. “There’s nothing better than opening the doors on opening day of the State Fair. And that’s something very special. It’s something very special, people embrace it.”

“Alaskans love it. It’s their celebration.”

The State Fair runs through September 2nd. The fair is open Thursday through Monday from 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. The fairgrounds close at 8 p.m. on Labor Day. Parking is free all days.

Curtis reminds people that there may be wait times when entering and leaving the fairgrounds.

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