Florida State Fair kicks off for 2019

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It’s time for some deep-fried fun as the Florida State Fair opens for another year.

The ferris wheel lights officially on before sunrise as newly-appointed Gov. Ron DeSantis “flipped the switch,” an annual tradition. The fair will run from February 7 through February 18. It opens with Heroes Day, where all active and retired first responders and military and up to three relatives can enter the fair for free. They just need a valid ID to do so.

The unique and sometimes fried food has grown more creative by the years. The 2019 Florida State Fair is no different from the rainbow grilled cheese to an enormous cheese stick.

Parking is always free for the fair, which truly began in 1975 when state lawmakers designated Tampa as the official Florida State Fair destination. There are plenty of discount options – such as Two Dollar Tuesday -- to help maneuver through the admission prices and fair food.

Also, Saturday, February 9, is a chance to meet and greet the faces of FOX 13. The event will be held from 11 a.m. and 1 p.m. under a big white tent called the “Waterfront Café.” It will be located just outside the Expo Hall, which is a different location than past years. 

For more information on tickets and hours, head over to the Florida State Fair website.