The largest fair in metro Atlanta returns Thursday to Cobb County for a week of family-friendly fun and entertainment.

The 87th annual North Georgia State Fair kicks off Sept. 19 and runs through Sunday, Sept. 29 at Jim Miller Park in Marietta. Fair hours are 4-11 p.m. Monday through Thursday, 4 p.m. to midnight Fridays, 10 a.m. to midnight Saturdays and 12:30 p.m. to 10 p.m. Sundays.

Organizers say the fair attracts 300,000 people from metro Atlanta, north Georgia and beyond. Attendees can expect live music, free shows, farm animals, flower shows, blue ribbon competitions, food and entertainment.

Fans of the fair will be treated to some new additions to this Georgia tradition, including a BMX stunt show, performances by the Ninja Experience martial arts team, sculptors transforming sand into works of art and a special needs beauty pageant.

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A number of country and contemporary Christian acts will also make an appearance at the fair. Headlining acts for concerts are Jeremy Camp, Sept. 20; Mitchell Tenpenny, Sept. 21; Lee Brice, Sept. 25; Tyler Farr, Sept. 26; Lanco, Sept. 27; and Caleb Lee Hutchinson opening for Travis Denning on Sept. 28. Concerts are free with paid admission to the fair.

Admission to the fair is $7, but children 10 and younger will be admitted for free. Tickets for rides are $1.25 each, $20 for 21 tickets, $50 for 55 tickets and $100 for 120 tickets (all rides require more than one ticket). Parking is $5. You can also purchase discount tickets online.

Jim Miller Park is at 2245 Callway Road SW in Marietta. For more information, visit the North Georgia State Fair website or call (770) 528-8989.

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