1. The concert lineup is stacked
Lynyrd Skynyrd, Darius Rucker and Matchbox Twenty are headlining three nights at the Days of '47 Arena, according to a Utah State Fair press release. Lynyrd Skynyrd plays Wednesday, Sept. 16, Rucker takes the stage Thursday, Sept. 17, and Matchbox Twenty closes out the series Friday, Sept. 18. Every concert ticket doubles as same-day admission to the fair.
"One hundred and seventy years is a massive milestone, so we knew we had to deliver a lineup that felt legendary," said Nicki Claeys, deputy executive director and marketing director for the Utah State Fair. "We've packed three eras of huge radio hits into one unforgettable week."
2. The Ferris wheel has one of the best views in Salt Lake City
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Ride it once, ride it twice. Either way, you get a sweeping view of the Wasatch Mountains from the top, along with the whole fairground lit up below.
3. The barns are full of baby animals
The fair's barns fill up with goats and other young livestock every year, and they're some of the most popular stops on the grounds.
4. The butter cow is a 36-year tradition
The fair has carved a life-size cow out of butter every year since 1989. It's a quirky, photo-worthy centerpiece that's become as much a part of the fair as the rides.
5. The draft horse pull is a serious feat of strength
Over at the Days of '47 Arena, teams of draft horses compete to pull loads of up to 8,000 pounds. It's a crowd favorite for anyone who wants to see raw horsepower in action.
6. There's live music beyond the arena, too
More than 130 local musical acts perform across multiple stages throughout the fair, giving Utah musicians a spotlight alongside the headliners.
7. It's a deep dive into Utah's roots
The fair traces back to 1856 and has called the Fairpark home since 1902. Last year's fair drew 302,205 attendees, and nearly 43% of them traveled from outside Salt Lake County to be there.
8. There's a little bit of everything else
Livestock shows, competitive exhibits, food vendors and an expanded carnival round out the fair, making it an easy full day out no matter what you're into.
The Utah State Fair runs through Sunday, Sept. 20, at the Fairpark in Salt Lake City. Get your tickets here: https://www.utahstatefair.com/