The 2013 Florida State Fair opens at 6:30 a.m. Feb. 7 and continues through Monday, Feb. 18.
TAMPA - Celebrating the 500th anniversary of the arrival of Juan Ponce De León in Florida, this year’s 109th annual Florida State Fair invites everyone to “Discover the Fun.”
“Florida: 500 Years In the Making” recognizes the statewide, year-long celebration of Viva Florida 500, a commemoration of Florida's rich heritage and diverse cultural history throughout 2013. From Feb. 7 through 18, the Florida State Fair deserves a top spot on the calendar as the go-to destination for fun in February.
The 2013 Florida State Fair will showcase new and unique agricultural and cultural exhibits such as the new “Discovery Center,” a Tampa Bay History Center curated exhibit, and a traveling exhibit celebrating “Florida Agriculture: 500 Years in the Making” hosted by the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services.
Get a map at the entrance and explore the “ConquistaTOUR,” a self-guided adventure through the State Fair, including the new Florida Cattlemen’s Ranching Museum, Florida’s Learning Garden and Cow Hunter’s Camp in Cracker Country. In addition, fairgoers will “Discover Florida” with a Broadway-style musical performance certain to please those who want to learn more about Florida.
Also new this year, is a concert series, including Starship Featuring Mickey Thomas and the Bellamy Brothers, among others.
Fairgoers can also expect the traditional favorites such as thrilling rides, shopping in Expo Hall, arts and crafts, a giant sand sculpture, tropical fish, the “Mooternity Ward,” horse shows, lots of animals and live entertainment. Visitors will also find a variety of extraordinary foods, from the traditional corn dog to chocolate-covered bacon. This year’s fair provides many new ways to “Discover the Fun.”
The State Fair’s “COWquistador” logo is a tribute to the European’s influence in the Sunshine State, as well as a symbol of the state’s rich agricultural heritage.
“The Florida State Fair is not only a destination where families can find good food and great adventures; it’s also a celebration of Florida’s rich agricultural heritage,” said Florida’s Commissioner of Agriculture Adam Putnam.
“The 2013 Florida State Fair offers many cultural and agricultural highlights,” notes Charles Pesano, executive director of the Florida State Fair Authority. “We have added remarkable entertainment, fantastic exhibits and new features to this year’s State Fair that we know everyone of all ages will love.”
The Florida State Fair is a sure ticket to “Discover the Fun.” For 12 days in February, the Florida State Fair will captivate visitors with special discount days, guaranteeing an excellent overall value.
Florida State Fairgrounds is at 4800 U.S. Hwy. 301 N., Tampa. Parking is free.
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