The 68th Greater Gulf State Fair is just around the corner. Here’s what you need to know if you plan to go:

It opens Oct. 28

The fair takes place at The Grounds, at the intersection of Cody Road and Ziegler Boulevard, from Friday, Oct. 28 through Sunday, Nov. 6. Hours are: 4 p.m.-midnight Oct. 28; 11 a.m.-midnight Oct. 29; noon-10 p.m. Oct. 30; 4 p.m.-midnight Oct. 31; 4 p.m.-10 p.m. Nov. 1-3; 4 p.m.-midnight Nov. 4; 11 a.m.-midnight Nov. 5; and noon-10 p.m. Nov. 6. The box office closes one hour before the midway closes.

Order in advance and save

Ordering online in advance gets you a break on ticket prices right up until the fair’s box office opens at 4 p.m. Oct. 28. Advance prices are: $8 general admission for ages 11 and up; $4 child admission for ages 5-10; “pay one price” Magic Pass unlimited ride wristband is $25; Midway “front-of-the-line” fast pass ticket is $10. Pay one price and Midway access tickets do not include admission. Tickets can be ordered online at www.greatergulfstatefair.com.

Full prices at the gate: Admission for children is $5 Monday-Thursday and $6 Friday-Sunday. Adult admission is $10 Monday-Thursday and $12 Friday-Sunday. Unlimited ride wristbands are $30 Monday-Thursday and $35 Friday-Sunday.

Discount Days offer bargains

If you want to save a few bucks on admission, it’s all about timing: “$5 Fridays” lower admission to $5 for those who arrive between 4 p.m. and 7 p.m. on Oct. 28 and Nov. 4. On Monday, Oct 31, college students with a valid student ID get free admission. Tuesday, Nov. 1, is kids’ night: admission is free for children ages 5 to 10 (must be accompanied by an adult who pays regular price). Most parking is free; preferred parking in front of the main entrance is $10.

Clear bags are required

There’s a clear bag policy this year. Acceptable bags include clear bags no larger than 12″ x 6″ x 12″ and 1-gallon freezer bags. Small clutch bags no larger than 4.5″ x 6.5″ also are acceptable and do not need to be clear. Bags that are not approved include purses and clutch bags larger than 4.5″ x 6.5″, backpacks (including clear backpacks), binocular and camera cases, fanny packs, oversized tote bags, mesh bags, briefcases, luggage and computer bags. It’s still OK to bring bag chairs if you plan to sit for a concert.

Sister Hazel tops entertainment lineup

Sister Hazel headlines this year’s entertainment lineup, performing at 7 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 29. Christian Illusionist Bryan Drake opens a 5:30 p.m. show for and Micah Tyler on Wednesday, Nov. 2. Kameron Marlowe opens a 7 p.m. show for Elle King on Friday, Nov. 4. Patrons are allowed to bring bag chairs.

There’s a midway job fair

The company running the fair’s midway will take job applications in the main lobby at The Grounds from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Saturday, Oct. 22. Positions include ticket sellers, ride attendants, game attendants and food handlers. Applicants must be 18 or older and should bring a government-issued ID and Social Security card.

The rodeo returns

Rodeo action will be presented at 6 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 5, and 2 p.m. Sunday, Nov. 6. Rodeo attendance is included in fair admission.

Family shows are featured

Entertainment running throughout the fair includes the Wow! Factor Science Show, Lew-e’s Comedy Circus, Brad Matchett’s comedy hypnotism show, The Acricadabra “magic of agriculture” show, pig races by Rosaire’s Royal Racers and the Royal-Hanneford Circus. All on-grounds acts, concerts, and rodeo are included in Gate Admission.

Policies

Pets are not permitted on the fairgrounds. Service animals as defined by the Americans with Disability Act are allowed; emotional support animals are not. Smoking is permitted in designated areas. Outside food and beverages are not allowed unless needed for medical purposes. Formula, milk and food for infants and toddlers is permitted. Knives and guns are prohibited on The Grounds, “with or without a valid Alabama permit to carry.” A Family Center provides a private environment for nursing, diaper changes and other parenting needs. For full information, visit www.greatergulfstatefair.com.