Harrison Thorp 6:14 a.m.
Friday, September 16, 2022 6:20 am

Between the petting zoo and the barn animal exhibits there's plenty of critters to learn about and enjoy (Granite State Fair Facebook photo)

ROCHESTER - The Granite State Fair got off to a fast start on Thursday with a free Motocross show in the grandstand and plenty of kid-friendly animals in the petting zoo and barns.

Organizer Mark Perry promised a substantial increase in animal exhibits this year, including some adorable piglets who were seen having dinner on Thursday afternoon.

The midway opened after a final safety check by Rochester firefighters who inspected some of the high flying carnival rides.

SAFETY FIRST: A Rochester firefighter inspects one of the midway's high flying thrill rides early Thursday afternoon prior to the fair's opening. (Rochester Voice photo)

The fair opens today at 4 p.m. with a cornhole tourney beginning at 7 p.m. To register click here.

Circus performances are set for 5:30 and 8 p.m.

Saturday's School Bus Derby and Sunday's Trailer Derby require grandstand tickets. To purchase click here.