If you live in South Carolina, you know this phrase means it is State Fair time in Columbia. The iconic rocket is celebrating the 50th anniversary of this landmark during the State Fair’s 150 year celebration.
The rocket is actually a Jupiter ballistic missile from the Cold War days. Decorated new this year with bright colors to celebrate this special anniversary .
Five generations of fair goers have heard the loud speakers call a name and told to meet their family, friends but most importantly, Your Mother, at this well known meeting place.
State fairs have always had a huge farm and agricultural background. State history reports agricultural fairs going back to the early 1700’s. Cows, chickens, rabbits and other farm critters are often on display by members of 4H. Showing their beauty and diversity. Horsemanship competition shows the skills of young riders.
Award winning produce, cakes and pies with their ribbons highlight the expertise that years of love from great gardeners and cooks are on display. And art work from paintings to photography take over a full building showing the creativity of the artist.
There was a 60 year period, 1909 – 1969 that there was an additional fair week following the primary fair. This was operated by the Colored State Fair Association which gave African Americans the opportunity enjoy the fair during the time of segregation.
From 1896 till 1959, Big Thursday, the annual meeting of football rivals University of South Carolina and Clemson, marked the end of State Fair week. This rivalry was then changed to the final game of the season, giving the winner bragging rights till the next encounter.
And what would a fair be without rides. Get on those stomach turning rides, best enjoyed during the evening with their bright neon lights.
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And then there are the games of “skill” which we know are rigged against us, but a lucky few manage to snag that oversize stuffed toy.
The sounds and smells of the fair change with each area. You hear laughter and screams. Music and the sound of generators running the equipment and rides. Smells go from the “farm” smell around the wildlife to the sweet smell of Elephant Ears, Cotton Candy and Candy Apples.
After many hours of looking, ridding and eating it’s time to Meet Yo’ Mama and dream of next year’s fun time at the State Fair…and another Deck Chair Journey.