The 82nd annual Marion County Fair kicks off today, an earlier start than usual. Fair organizers say they're hoping to boost attendance, which has dropped in recent years, by picking a time that would allow for fairer weather, and also wouldn't compete with bigger events like the Brickyard 400 or the Indiana State Fair.
You won't be able to miss the Ferris wheel if you head out tonight to the Marion County fairgrounds on the southeast side. It's adorned with multi-colored LED lights.
Safety is certainly an issue here, as it will be at all county fairs following last season's stage collapse tragedy at the State Fair. Those involved with the Marion County Fair met last night to go over their safety procedures. They wanted to make sure everyone is on the same page when it comes to reacting to any trouble that may arise.
As for the rides here, state inspectors do look over rides at the midway.
Cathy Clark is the Fair Board President. "One of the things - we have a safety team in place," she said. "We've had one before, and actually looked at the safety preparedness plan as well. Of course, the State Fair tragedy made us more and more aware of what is gong on."
You will notice some new rides in the midway, and they are spread out a little more than in past years. Cooling stations also set up around the grounds in case we continue with this current heat wave.
The fair offers a lot of activities, as well as some new entertainment, and some new ways to save on the standard $5 admission price.
"Schools are starting a lot earlier than they used to," Clark said. "A lot of families weren't able to have a vacation between going to the county fair and the State Fair."
