The 2012 State Fair runs Oct. 10-21. Here are a few key reminders about the 143st fair.

Get your tickets

Oct. 9 is the last day to buy advance discount admission and ride tickets.

Buy admission tickets at scstatefair.org or at any Bi-Lo store. Admission is $7 in advance, $10 once the fair opens for ages 6-54. Admission is $7 for seniors ages 55 and older and $2 for children ages 2-5 throughout the fair. Active and retired military and their dependents (with proper identification) will be admitted free throughout the fair.

Advance ride vouchers are $20, available at Bi-Lo stores through Oct. 9. Beginning Oct. 10 vouchers will be $25 and will be available at the fair. Vouchers purchased in advance can be exchanged any day of the fair for 28 ride coupons. Vouchers purchased after the fair opens can be traded for 22 ride coupons. Kiddie rides require two or three tickets; adult rides, three or four. All vouchers can be exchanged for a pay-one-price wristband on weekdays.

Of note

Fair gates open at 3 p.m. Oct. 10. Admission is $1 for everyone on opening day, with tickets available only at the gate.

In the Grandstand

This year’s musical lineup includes Thompson Square, Hot Chelle Ray, Love Fellowship Choir featuring Hezekiah Walker, Boys II Men, Newsboys, Doobie Brothers and Jake Owen. Tickets can be purchased on the State Fair website. Concert prices vary, and all online purchases include fair admission. Tickets also will be available at the Grandstand box office 90 minutes before each show.

Mm, mm good

Mexican cuisine will be on the menu for the first time this year as San Jose Mexican Restaurante joins the long list of food patrons. And, for you food fans, among the latest deep-fried offerings are Fried Cheese Curds and a Raspbery Chicken Sandwich.

Did you know?

The State Fair has awarded more than $3 million in scholarships, endowments and grants to students and statewide nonprofits the past decade, including $300,000 in scholarships this year.

Compiled by Bertram Rantin