The Bangor State Fair is set to open its gates once again at Bass Park from Thursday, August 3, to Sunday, August 6. For the locals, the Bangor State Fair has always been a cherished summer tradition. But it's not just the folks from Bangor who eagerly anticipate it; people from all over the state travel to be part of the excitement.

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Thanks to the Cross Insurance Center and the Bangor State Fair staff, I was able to get a preview of what awaits visitors at the 2023 Bangor State Fair. 

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Walking through the fairgrounds, I couldn't help but be amazed by the lineup of rides all set up and ready to run. It's been years since I last went, but this walkthrough brought back memories of the excitement I used to feel as a kid, eagerly anticipating the fair.

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Of course, no experience would be complete without indulging in the iconic food. I couldn't resist trying out some classic favorites like deep-fried Oreos, a doughboy, and a savory Italian cheesesteak - the very essence of fair cuisine. But I'm saving some space for my all-time favorite, the blooming onion; it's a must-have!

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And who could forget the lemonade that always adds a refreshing touch to the festivities? I can assure you that it's back again this year, and it hasn't lost its touch - it's still phenomenal!

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While the rides, food, and games contribute to the fair's charm, we can’t forget the heart and soul of the Bangor State Fair - agriculture. I had the opportunity to peek into the setup of the agricultural exhibits at the Cross Insurance Center arena. Witnessing the return of Agriculture to the fair was an enriching experience. It offers a unique chance for visitors to connect with farm animals and engage with captivating exhibits that showcase rural life's beauty.

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Apart from the agriculture and entertainment, the Bangor State Fair has a delightful independent midway, filled with thrilling games and attractions for all ages. It's a realm of adventure and fun, where laughter and excitement are bound to be found around every corner.

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The Bangor State Fair is back in town from August 3rd to August 6th, 2023. And again, thank you to the Cross Insurance Center and Bangor State Fair for the sneak peek. 

Here's a schedule for the fair, subject to change.

Thursday, August 3: 

  • 10:00 AM - Sheep Show 
  • 4:00 PM - Market Lamb Show 
  • 4:30 PM - Whoopie Pie Eating Contest 
  • 6:00 PM - Market Steer Show 
  • 6:30 PM - Truck Pulls 

Friday, August 4: 

  • 9:00 AM - Commodity Judging 
  • 12:00 PM - Dairy Show 
  • 4:00 PM - Beef Show 
  • 4:30 PM - Hot Dog Eating Contest 
  • 5:00 PM - DAKOTA 
  • 7:00 PM - Jameson Rodgers with Drew Green and 12/OC

 Saturday, August 5: 

  • 8:00 AM - 4-H Goat Show 
  • 12:30 PM - MRWA Wrestling Show 
  • 1:30 PM - Hot Wings Eating Contest 
  • 2:30 PM - Crossroads Band 
  • 4:00 PM - Market Auction 
  • 4:30 PM - Gifford's Ice Cream Eating Contest, presented by Gifford’s Ice Cream 
  • 5:00 PM - MRWA Wrestling Show 
  • 7:00 PM - Demolition Derby, presented by VIP Auto 

Sunday, August 6: 

  • 8:00 AM - Open Goat Show 
  • 12:00 PM - Antique Car Show, presented by VIP Auto 
  • 4:30 PM - Blueberry Pie Eating Contest 
  • 5:30 PM - Tractor Pulls

Let the countdown to fun and festivities begin!

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