The Colorado State Fair kicks off next week with a wide variety of free events that are sure to please every fair goer. 

Free opportunities include:

•The Agricultural Pavilion, presented by the Colorado Department of Agriculture, provides the ultimate experience for ag education.  The young and young-at-heart can be a farmer for a day, visit the petting zoo, and learn how agriculture plays a role in all our lives.

•Free attractions offer a wide variety of entertainment include sea lions, milking cows, pole vaulting, comedians, magicians, and monkeys. Plus, three stages (Coca-Cola Stage, American Furniture Warehouse Amphitheater and WeatherPort Tent) offer free music, dancing, and events throughout the run of the Fair.

•A number of livestock competitions provide a glimpse into ranching life.  Youth exhibitors work throughout the year to get their steers, horses, chickens, rabbits, hogs and other livestock in peak performance shape. Plus, 4-H and FFA projects are on display.

•The Fine Arts Exhibition displays the top picks for the artwork submitted by Colorado residents for this prestigious art show.

The Colorado State Fair runs August 26 - September 5, 2016.  For more information, visit www.coloradostatefair.com.

The 2016 Colorado State Fair will mark the Fair's 144th year as Colorado's premier celebration of agriculture. The Fairgrounds provides nearly $34 million in economic activity to Colorado throughout the year; $29 million of that activity is driven by the annual State Fair event. In addition to showcasing Colorado agriculture, the annual event features one of the country’s largest traveling carnivals, artwork, crafts, food competitions, thrilling rodeo action, a wide variety of food and merchandise booths and a Fiesta Day honoring Colorado's ties to the Hispanic culture.