State Fair runs through Sept. 18

From an organ grinder to punk band Hoobastank, traditional and modern favorites promise that this year's 150th Utah State Fair will live true to their spokesperson — sweet.

With quirky pop culture icon Napoleon Dynamite promoting the fair with pal Pedro through ads on billboards, buses, radio and television, fair organizers hope the sesquicentennial year will attract the younger crowd but still appeal to the fair old-timers. This year's fair theme is "All Your Wildest Dreams Will Come True."

New to the 2005 fair will be fireworks — every night. Entertainment stages have also been rearranged so national acts can be focused in the center of the fairgrounds. And for the 150th, fair organizers are expecting a big crowd. Last year, 280,000 people went to the fair. This year, they hope for 300,000.

"If you haven't been in a long time, it's a great year to come back and see what's changed," said Denise Stanger, fair spokesperson. "If it's your first time, you really want to come and experience and share in the best of what Utah has to offer. Bring your kids, start a family tradition."

Farm animals, antique cars, live music, comedians, clowns, contests and exhibits are part of the attractions, most free with gate admission. In celebration of the sesquicentennial, many discount promotions are also available.

"It's the 150th, so we're trying to entice everybody to celebrate the 150th with us," said Rick Frenette, fair general manager. "We feel it will be a special year this year."

For the 150th, a historical display will be set up near the entrance. In addition to old trophies and ribbons, fair memories will be posted. Currently on the fair's Web site, longtime fairgoers can submit a favorite memory of Utah's fair. And on the last day of the fair, Sunday, Sept. 18, a time capsule will be put together for fair organizers to open in 50 years at the 200th Utah State Fair.

"My memories of fairs is the sound, the smell, the excitement and the family atmosphere," Frenette said.

Although Utah has had an array of county fairs the past few months, Frenette encourages residents to come to the state fair. "We offer more, larger choices, more excitement. We just want people to realize this is the best value in the state of Utah."