Behind the Scenes of the 2012 South Carolina State Fair

COLUMBIA, S.C. (WOLO) — “Fun, family entertainment, excitement and tradition,” says Nancy Smith of the South Carolina State Fair. All of those are what officials hope will help you find your happy at the South Carolina State Fair. Tuesday, inspections and final preparations were the task at hand. “Just prepping stuff, we might get our lettuce and tomatoe and onions and stuff kind of situated. Go ahead and slice our onions, get your pickles ready, you now get your stand over all stocked,” says Cheryl Reas, fair vendor. Reas helps bring favorites like the Donut Burger to South Carolinians. “I can’t remember not coming to the South Carolina State Fair,” says Reas. Fair officials are also getting ready. “We are putting all the finishing touches on the rides and exhibits,’ says Smith. Speaking of exhibits, new this year, the one-eared cow glass in the Ellison building. “When you see it, I’m not going to let all the cats out of the bag, but you will just be amazed,” says Smith. And making a comeback this year, the Sea Lions. “They’re adorable, they’re outall the time, yoiu can come over and see them and have your picture made with them,”says Smith. Last but certainly not least, a new ride is here it’s called ‘Speed.’ “It’s 125 feet and it turns you every which way but loose,” says Smith. Today is the last day to get your discounted fair tickets. You can purchase those at any surrouding Bi-Lo. Discounted admission tickets are $7.00, $10.00 at the gate. However, on Wednesday guests will be able to get in the fair for just $1.00 per person. You can also purchase discounted ride vouhcers for $20.00, those will be $25.00 at the gate. Fair officials say you can trade the ride vouchers in for 28 ride tickets every day of the fair. Weekdays only, fari officials say you can trade the ride voucher in for a one-price-ride all bracelet.