Families in Washington have been “doing the Puyallup” for over 100 years, so it’s no surprise they know this fair inside and out. But the fairgrounds are huge and while everyone has their favorite events and attractions they want to do and experience, it’s easy to miss out on some of the fair’s newest and best. That’s why we put together a rundown of this year’s can’t-miss attractions and tips on how to save some serious money. Click through the gallery for the fair-tastic deets.

Get in for Free

It doesn’t take long for little expenses to add up in a hurry, so be sure to plan ahead and take advantage of the various free offers. The biggest savings come from free admission days. First of all, all kids ages 5 & under are always free, so that’s an easy one. Second, everyone can get into the fair for free on opening day, Fri., Sept. 1 by bringing in a non-perishable food item for the KOMO food drive and Fri., Sept. 8 by bringing in a school supply donation. However, you’ll need to enter the fairgrounds between 10:30 a.m. and 12:30 p.m. Plus, all kids up to the age of 18 get in free Sept. 1-4 and military families get in free on Sept. 4, 5, 12 and 19, 2017.

photo: Patrick Hagerty

Washington State Fair Events Center
110 9th Ave. S.W.
Puyallup, Wa 98371
253-845-1771 or 253-841-5045 (24-hour hotline)
Online: thefair.com

Dates: Sept. 1-4, 2017
Fri.,  10:30 a.m.-10:30 p.m.
Sat.-Sun., 9:30 a.m.- 10:30 p.m.
Mon., 9:30 a.m.- 9:30 p.m.

Dates: Sept. 7-24, 2017
Mon., Wed. & Thurs., 10:30 a.m.-9:30 p.m.
Fri. 10:30 a.m.-10:30 p.m.
Sat. 9:30 a.m-10:30 p.m.
Sun. 9:30 a.m.-9:30 p.m.
(Closed Tuesdays)

Pre-fair tickets can be purchased online through August 31, 2017: $11/Adults; $9/Students (6-18); $9/Seniors (62+); Free for 5 & under. Regular fair prices are $14/Adults; $10.50/Students (6-18); $10.50/Seniors (62+); 5 & under Free.

Parking: Check here for fair parking locations. Costs are $10/weekdays and $15/weekends.

What are your family’s Washington State Fair favorites? Share ’em with us in the comments below!

— Jeffrey Totey & Rachael Brandon