PHOENIX -- True weekend warriors, AKA Fair exhibitors, dedicate hours of their spare time creating their masterpieces. Whether they work with animals, food, cloth, wood, metal or ceramics, they all enjoy the thrill of competition and the pride that comes with winning.
Glory and ribbons are earned by showing off their talents and entering their treasured projects in the 2009 Arizona State Fair each year.
They enjoy bragging rights, of course, plus they get to show off their prizes to family and friends for as long as it's tolerated.
Take, for example, Vicki Vasquez and her daughter, Jessica. Between the two of them, they have been entering the fair's culinary competitions for more than two decades and are the proud winners of dozens of blue ribbons.
"Everyone should put their talents to the test," states Vicki, "People don't realize how easy, fun and inexpensive it is to enter the Fair's competitions."
After years of winning ribbons and even a national title for their Orange Pecan Yeast Rolls, Vicki and Jessica humbly admit they still have more to learn.
They look forward to the annual Arizona State Fair each year so they can improve their skills and catch up with friends they meet each year in the culinary competition.
Anyone can compete in the Fair, all ages and skill levels are welcome, as long they meet the September entry deadlines.
Beginners to seasoned pros from ages 4 to 104 showcase their talents in a variety of areas and category and vie for the coveted state-awarded blue ribbon.
More than 10,000 Blue Ribbons are awarded each year in 25 competitive categories at the Fair, including 4-H, Smallstock and Livestock; Agriculture; Creative Crafts & Collections; Culinary Arts (including canned goods and beer & wine); Fine Arts; Floriculture; Mineral & Jewelry; Photography; and Student Art & Technology.
The quest for the blue ribbon begins with time, talent, and tenacity, and ends with a proud display for over 1 million people to view at the Arizona State Fair.
As host to a variety of fun-filled activities and attractions for 125 years, the Arizona State Fair continues to attract visitors each year to its location at 19th Avenue and McDowell Road.
The Fair runs October 16 through November 8 and is closed Mondays.
Check
www.azstatefair.com for the latest information.
