The Illinois State Fair officially got underway Friday. IPR's Brian Mackey has more on what's happening at this year's fair:
Based on the evidence Friday morning on the Illinois State Fairgrounds, it's never too early for fried mini-doughnuts. Vendors were selling all manner of-deep fried delights, patrons were crowding parking lots, and dignitaries were cutting a red, white, and blue ribbon to mark the official opening of the 2013 fair.
State Fair Manager Amy Bliefnick was optimistic as ever:
"I think the weather forecast for the upcoming week looks really great."
In addition to the animals, concerts, and carnival rides, no fair would be complete without the food. And holy cow, the food. One booth was advertising something called "moink balls" -- that's a meatball wrapped in bacon -- i.e., "moo" and "oink."
And speaking of food, Gov. Pat Quinn kept up what's becoming an annual tradition of detailing his fair menu:
"I had three pork chops on a stick last night. I look forward to eating my way across the state fair today and other days as well."
The Illinois State Fair runs through Aug. 18.