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A Guide To The Spring Fair With Kids

April 19, 2017 by Maegen Blue

Updated for 2018

Looking to save at the Spring Fair in Puyallup this year? Want a few tips to make the most of your visit? You’ve come to the right place!

We live up the hill from the fairgrounds, and as I’ve mentioned before, I actually prefer the Spring Fair to the big one. It’s just less busy and has more old-fashioned fun.

I’ve waded through all the options to give you the scoop on your best deals on admission, rides, and more.

Plus, I have details on the day kids go FREE! Read on for all that! 

Admission Deals–

FREE Kids’ Gate Admission on opening day!

Kids ages 0-18 receive FREE gate admission on Thursday, April 19th, 2 p.m. – 10 p.m. with a suggested non-perishable food donation for the Puyallup Food Bank. No coupon required.

Kids 5 and under are FREE every day of the Spring Fair.

Other Admission Deals-If you have school age kids, they should be bringing home a coupon for 2.00 off admission. If you can’t find this one, you can save a couple bucks by purchasing in advance online or in person from a ticket outlet.

If you want a deal that also includes rides, or if you’re a military family, keep reading!

Ride Deals

The best deal is opening day.

On Thursday, April 19 buy six rides for just $18 at any ride ticket booth. Includes all Funtastic ride and games.*
PLUS: Extreme Deal – Ride the Extreme Scream on Thursday, April 19 for just $10.
*Not valid on the Classic Coaster and Extreme Scream rides. 

Kids also get in free opening day with a non perishable food donation, so if Thursday works for you, go!

If your kids will want to do more rides, you may want to consider the Quack Pack good through the 18th, or there are some good Groupons available that will save you about 30% on admissions and rides. You can check those out here. Those are selling fast, so don’t wait too long if they make sense for your family.

 

Entertainment Deals

Check out the Kids’ Zone

The Spring Fair has a whole pavilion of mostly FREE fun, including face painting, science exhibits, seed planting, and more. There are also tons of contest exhibits at the Spring Fair, all of which are free to check out. AND

Check out the animals and the live entertainment

Almost all of it is free. We love the racing pigs and the dock dogs. This year I’m especially excited about the new Aussie Kingdom exhibit. Kangaroos and wallabies, guys!  Also be sure to check out Storybook Village-it’s a bit like a storybook themed children’s museum, and there will be characters on hand for photo ops. Our readers loved it last year, and this year it’s FREE. Find it by the red gate-also home to the awesome Fred Oldfield Center (ask about summer art camps)!

Food Deals

Eat Before You Go-Not to be a total grinch, but here’s what’s going to get you. If you can avoid going hungry, you will save yourself a ton of money. My husband always has to get a bag of scones. It pretty much doubles the cost of the outing, but they are tasty!

Deals for Military Families

Military Appreciation Day

Spring Fair gate admission is FREE for active, retired and reserve military and National Guard and their dependents, plus disabled veterans with a valid military ID all day on Friday, April 20, 2018. Show ID at gate turnstile.

Click here for a list of valid forms of Military ID

Parking Deals

Parking? Parking at the Spring Fair is free on Thursday and Friday in the green, orange, gold, blue, and purple lots.  ​Parking on Saturday and Sunday is $10, which I believe is new. If you don’t want to pay you can look for street parking. Try the one by Kalles Junior High.

Motorsport Mayhem

Deals to Slamfest or The Monster Truck Show-You need separate tickets for these events. There are some deals available right now. Do bring EAR PROTECTION if you go, and don’t take a child with sensory issues. Otherwise, they’re a lot of fun. We will be doing some ticket giveaways to these. Make sure you’re following Sounds Fun Mom on Instagram and Facebook. 

Dates and Hours

Washington State Spring Fair Dates  April 19-22, 2018

Days:                                                     Hours: 

Thurs.                                                    2 – 10 p.m.

Fri.                                                         10 a.m. – 10 p.m.

Sat.                                                        10 a.m. – 10 p.m.

Sun.                                                       10 a.m. – 8 p.m.

 

Do you do the Spring Fair? Do you prefer it to the big one like I do, or do you think I’m nuts? I’d love to hear your best tips, too-especially for first timers and families with little ones. I know they’ll help out other moms and dads planning a trip!

All photos by Patrick Hagerty. Property of/supplied courtesy of The Fair

 

 

 

VITAL STATISTICS

Washington State Spring Fair Dates

April 11-14, 2019

 

Days:       Hours:

Thurs.    2 – 10 p.m.

Fri.    10 a.m. – 10 p.m.

Sat.    10 a.m. – 10 p.m.

Sun.    10 a.m. – 8 p.m.

 

Location

Washington State Fair Events Center

110 9th Avenue SW

Puyallup, WA 98371

 

Gates open during Spring Fair

  • Blue Gate (Meridian Street and 11th Avenue SW)
  • Gold Gate (corner of Meridian and 9th Avenue SW)
  • Red Gate (9th Avenue SW near 4th Street SW)
  • Purple Gate (Fairview Drive between 9th & 15th Avenue SW)

 

Office Phone

(253) 845-1771

Information Hotline

(253) 841–5045 (24-Hour Hotline)

 

Website

www.thefair.com/spring-fair

Social Media

See website for social channels.

Please use hashtags #SpringIsInTheFair & #WAStateFair

 

Admission Prices               On-site                        Online at www.thefair.com thru 4/11

General (ages 13+)                $12                             $10

Child (6-12 years)               $10                             $8

Kids 5 and under                  Always Free                 Always Free

 

Parking

Thursday    Free

Friday, Saturday & Sunday $10

*Premium parking is available by reservation online at www.thefair.com only, $10-$20.

 

Deals & Discounts

See “Deals and Discounts” on our site for more details on early bird online deals, discount tickets at retailers Pierce and South King counties (while supplies last), ride packages and more savings: http://www.thefair.com/deals

Sponsors: Fred Meyer, Safeway, Albertson’s, O’Reilly Auto Parts, South Hill Mall

 

MEDIA INFORMATION

Media Contact

Stacy Van Horne, Public Relations Manager

Phone (cell):    (253) 312–4481
Email:     Stacyv@thefair.com

 

Media Passes

Please submit requests in advance for media gate access. A designated parking area is available for members of the media working under a tight deadline. Please notify Stacy so that she can provide directions. All credentials will be distributed only through the Public Relations office.

 

Logo, Photo and Special Requests

For photos and logo shown on the website, click on “Media & News” at the bottom of the page, then select “Photo/Logos.” The media user name (case sensitive) is:  press login. The password (case sensitive) is:  fairphotos. We have an extensive photo library, and would be glad to fulfill specific requests. Request photos from Stacy at Stacyv@thefair.com.

 

NEW THIS YEAR!

Ninja Experience Stunt Show Experience

Watch this team of martial arts experts wow the audience, with high-flying jaw-dropping performances that showcase an extraordinary display of extreme theatrics!

Free with Fair admission.

Location: Near Showplace Stage

The Farm at SillyVille

This free “farmer for a day” experience connects kids to our state’s agriculture industry, the farming story and healthy eating choices. The exhibit opened at the 2018 Washington State Fair and is making its first Spring Fair debut.

Free with Fair admission.

Sponsor: Safeway.

Earthquakes Biggest Burgers

A Washington State Fair guest favorite, finally makes its Spring Fair debut this year! The half-pound burger with piled high onions and cheese, celebrates its 27th year at The Fair.

The Bull’s Battle of the Bands – Friday, April 12

Come watch as three bands battle it out with their original songs for a chance to win $1000 from New Country 98.9!  Each band has submitted their original music at www.989bull.com   and will be hand selected to perform at The Spring Fair on April 12th at the Showplace Stage.

Entries are currently being accepted through March 31, 2019.

Free with Fair admission.

Location/Time: Showplace Stage, 6-8 p.m.

Media Partner: New Country 98.9 The Bull 

Goat Yoga – Saturday, April 13

Bring your yoga mat to The Fair on Saturday, April 13 for a unique yoga experience – with goats! If you love goats like we do, you won’t want to miss this chance to get your exercise on AND do it with adorable goats roaming around.

Space is limited so purchase tickets online in advance to guarantee your spot.

For details on what to bring and what to know before you go: http://www.thefair.com/fun/details/goat-yoga

Cost: $8 per person (does not include Spring Fair Admission)

Location: Arena K – Loading Arena

Truck Pulls – Saturday, April 13 

New this year! Spring Fair Truck Pulls event. Watch local competitors in six different weight classes compete to see who has the toughest truck for bragging rights and prizes.

Those interested in participating, check out www.thefair.com for rules and registration.

Location/Time: Paulhamus Arena, 2 p.m.

 

RETURNING SPECIAL ATTRACTIONS & HIGHLIGHTS  

Kids Free Gate Admission/ Opening Day at the Fair Food Drive – Thursday, April 11  

Kids ages 6-18 get in free Thursday, with a suggested non-perishable food donation to benefit the Puyallup Food Bank. Kids ages 5 and under are always free.  

Military Appreciation Day – Friday, April 12  

Free gate admission will be offered to active, retired and reserve military and their dependents, plus disabled veterans – with valid military ID.

Media partners: 570 AM KVI and KOMO Newsradio AM 1000 / 97.7 FM.

Gate Giveaway, first 500 guests – Friday, April 12 

The first 500 guests will request a complimentary mini blossom kit of forget-me-nots, to get that spring garden started! 

Fireworks Show – Friday & Saturday  

Join us at the Fireworks Spectacular on Friday and Saturday nights at approximately 9 p.m. The show will be enhanced with music.

Fiesta Mexicana – Sunday, April 14

Come enjoy Meixan culture and sizzling entertainment that’s sure to get you up and dancing. Performance groups include Folklore Mexicano Tonantzin, Los Socios and Los De La Barranca throughout the day.

Free with Fair admission.

Location: Showplace Stage

Motorsport Mayhem

Don’t miss Motorsport Mayhem presented by O’Reilly Auto Parts! Monster truck rides, tricked out monster trucks, smashing cars collide and even boats…for action-packed entertainment, you won’t want to miss! For specific events and schedules: http://www.thefair.com/spring-fair/motorsport-mayhem

Various times: Grandstand

Presented by O’Reilly Auto Parts. Sponsored by Budweiser.

*Visit your local O’Reilly Auto Parts for $5 off coupon (Now-April 14)

BBQ Competition 

Don’t miss your opportunity to taste award winning BBQ at the 3rd Annual Washington State Spring Fair BBQ Competition. Competitors will be cooking up their own variations on BBQ classics. Cast your vote for the People’s Choice on Saturday and watch as the contestants vie for the blue ribbon on Sunday. The Washington State Fair competition is the highest prize purse in the state, at $20,000!

Last’s year’s winners, “Smoke 324” and “The Smokin’ Bocks,” will be sampling their award-winning grub Friday, April 12, 2-7:30 p.m.

Various times: Contest Arena (south end of the grounds) 

DockDogs Competition 

DockDogs features dogs running down a 40-foot canine runway and jumping headlong into a 27,000 gallon pool of water.

Free with Fair admission.

Daily: Red Gate area

All Alaskan Racing Pigs

You may not think of little porkers when sports is the conversation, but these fuzzy little racers will make you reconsider the meaning of “professional athlete.” The 100-yard dash and the 50-yard high hurdles come to life as you have never experienced them before. When the runners have four legs the starts are even more exhilarating. And when you are a cute little pig, well, you can do just about anything you want. It’s just pure fun!

Daily: Fountain Plaza 

Creative Kids Exhibit 

This pre-registered exhibit showcases the talents of children, 6-15 years-old. Divisions include:  art, baking, creative writing, photography, textiles, bird houses/bird feeders, paper crafts and scrapbooking, and an egg drop contest.

Daily: Pavilion 

Northwest Living & Garden Show 

It’s time to get outside and spruce up our gardens and our outdoor living areas. Northwest Living & Garden, presented by Mattress Firm, has a range of vendors. Ciscoe Morris will be providing a 30-minute gardening presentation followed by a Q&A on Sunday, April 14, 1 p.m.

Free with Fair admission.

Location: Mattress Firm ShowPlex

Sponsor:  Mattress Firm

Outdoor Adventures 

Don’t miss hands on activities for all ages, interactive learning opportunities including kayaking safety tips, outdoor simulations and more. Check out Brad’s World Reptiles and get your heart racing with exotic animals from around the globe.

Free with Fair admission. 

Daily: Expo Hall 

Animal Exhibits 

Washington Shepherds’ Extravaganza, Northwest Junior Livestock Show, Cascade Pygmy Goat Association Show, Dexter Cattle Show, Miniature Horse Exhibit, Llama Exhibit, Washington Junior Poultry Exposition, Rainier Rabbits ARBA Show, Washington Ornamental and Game Bird Exhibit, and of course, the Fair Farm.

Free with Fair admission.

Daily: Barns H, J, M, N 

Fun on the Farm 

Kids will love having fun on the farm in this area. They can get up close to baby animals, petting a variety of babies. Barnyard Adventure offers an experience of working on the farm with Pete’s Potato Place, Corn Play Box, Professor Kluck’s Fact & Picture Board, milking a faux cow and more!

Free with Fair admission.

Daily: Centennial Tent 

Diversity Celebration

The 14th Annual Puyallup School District Diversity Celebration will be held all four days of Spring Fair. This is a time of sharing, learning, and showcasing the artwork, essays, poems and other works based on culturally relevant curriculum.

Free, with Fair admission.

Location: Hobby Hall, Coca-Cola Stage (Saturday)  

MORE FREE MUSIC, SHOWS AND NON-STOP ENTERTAINMENT!

There is something for everyone – from strolling entertainment, comedy, music, jugglers, special exhibits and much more! Click here for more information: http://www.thefair.com/fun/free-music-entertainment

Comments

  1. Sarah says

    April 16, 2018 at 10:12 pm

    Thought you might want to add…
    Puyallup Rocks and Fred’s Creative Kids are teaming up to bring you FREE rock painting at the fair. Paint a rock and take it with you or donate it to the rock trading garden located right outside the Oldfield Center next to the red gate.
    Thursday April 19, 2-5pm
    Friday, April 20, 1:30-5pm
    Saturday, April 21, 1:30-5pm
    Sunday, April 22, 1:30-5pm

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