Enjoy history, future and fun at Florida State Fair

So you want to step back in time, travel to the future or just hang in the present for awhile? At the Florida State Fair in Tampa, all of these wishes can be granted.

Mosey on over to Cracker Country, a quaint little town nestled among trees on the southeast edge of the fairgrounds. There folks can learn about the pioneer days of Florida, by watching as Crackers make soap, candles, create prints, demonstrate early machines and relate what life was like in early Florida.

If a little more excitement is on your itinerary, the rides, games and attractions at the fair are out of this world. You will be spun, dropped and whirled until the kettle corn from Cracker Country tries to make a reappearance.

There are plenty of other things to do, many are at no extra cost besides the general admission. Over near the livestock you could watch the birth of an animal, or see how they are taken care of. Experts of all topics under the Florida sun will be on the grounds giving tips on everything from home-improvement projects to the latest technology in digital imaging.

Live bands and other shows will play throughout the week. There is bull riding, equestrian shows and loads of other things to do.

A full schedule is available on the Web at floridastatefair.com. There you will find prices, maps, photos and everything that needs to be known about the fair.