LISTEN to an interview with Florida State Fair executive director Cheryl Flood:

TAMPA -- The Florida State Fair opens Thursday in Tampa... two months later than normal because of the pandemic. It runs April 22nd through May 2nd.

Executive director Cheryl Flood says there are special protocols in place for COVID-19. They include masks, on the Midway as well as inside buildings, as well as social distancing for all lines at the fair's 82 rides. The fair is also using promotions to encourage people to attend during the week to lessen crowds on weekends. Even so, Flood says, the crowd at the Fairgrounds usually turns over about four times a day and officials think this is enough to inhibit COVID transmission.

The fair is normally held in February. Flood reminds people to be prepared for April weather and use sunscreen. Wear comfortable clothing and shoes for the long walks across the fairgrounds and midway. Be prepared for a bag check at entry.

Once you're inside, entertainment includes circus acts, magic acts, trapeze artists, daredevils and musical acts.

There's also the calorie-packed factor of fair food. This year's notable entries include pickle pizza... made with white sauce, gelato nachos, and gelato tacos, with a stroopwafel serving as taco shell.

Other specialties: Buffalo Chicken Sundaes, Flaming Hot Cheetos Funnel Cake, and the Loaded Tater Burger.

Weekdays, gates open at 11 a.m. and the midway opens at 1 p.m. Weekends, the gates open at 10 and the midway at 10:30.

Here's a link to the Florida State Fair site for more information:

LISTEN to an interview with Florida State Fair executive director Cheryl Flood:

Photo: Florida State Fair Authority

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