Paid-ticket entertainment includes Kenny Rogers and the Oakridge Boys ($28 advance purchase) and Smashmouth ($24 advance) and Miranda Lambert with special guest Jason Aldean ($19 advance). Go to www.smithstix.com.

The fair opens at 3 p.m. Thursday, and everyone over the age of 5 can get into the fair for only $2. After opening day, admission will be $8 for adults; $6 for seniors 62 and over and youths ages 6-12. Children 5 and under enter free.

For a complete calendar of Utah State Fair activities and events, go to www.utahstatefair.com.

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2006 Utah State Fair runs Sept. 7-17

• Opening day special: Everyone over the age of 5 can attend the Utah State Fair's opening day Thursday for $2. The fair opens at 3 p.m.

• Thursday events include: The Maxinettes; juggler Sean Emery; Wild World of Animals Show; master of escape Michael Griffin; scrapbook demonstration; Reptiles of the World; the Spoonman; Ghirardelli Chocolate Championship cook-off; master chainsaw carver Mark Colp; Miss Utah State Fair Scholarship Program; Utah's Own PRCA Rodeo.

• Fair hours: 3-10 p.m. opening day Thursday; 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. Sunday-Thursday; 10 a.m. to 11 p.m. Friday-Saturday

• Information: For a full schedule of events, visit www.utahstatefair.com.

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E-mail: blee@desnews.com