Friday, September 8 is a super-great day. Not only is it my birthday, but I get to spend my birthday down at the Puyallup Fairgrounds for the opening day of the Western Washington Fair. This year’s theme is “It’s a Doozy” and, well, okay–the ads ARE kind of dumb but the fair’s still a good time: arts, crafts, onion burgers, scones, rides, games, corn dogs, animals, concerts, rodeo, giant pumpkin carving…

…seriously, how can you not have fun at an event with giant pumpkin carving?

Like every other big festival, the Puyallup’s full of hyper-commercialism where commerce seems to run rough-shod over community but there’s still plenty of down-to-earth, simple fun to be had: granges from all over Washington state still make fancy displays from produce, 4-H kids still show off their projects with a misture of nervousness and pride, and the young animals on display are still gobsmackingly adorable. While you’re at the Fair check out the “Mutton Bustin’” events where children 6 years and younger compete in a mock rodeo competition starring sheep…if you think you can stand the cuteness.

The Puyallup runs through the 24th of September and, please, consider using one of the many available public transportation options to get there.