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

Get your tickets

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

Buy admission tickets at www.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) 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.

Opening day

The fair opens at 3 p.m. Wednesday. Admission is $1 for everyone, with tickets available only at the gate.

Youth entrance policy

Those younger than age 16 must be accompanied by a parent or legal guardian age 21 or older after 5 p.m. each day. Guests 16 and older may be asked to present a valid driver’s license to show proof of age.

A change in seasons

This year’s sand sculpture will feature “The Four Seasons” as the artists convert 75,000 tons of sand into a visually pleasing display in the Ellision Building. Visitors can watch the sand evolve into a work of beauty during the fair’s 12-day run.

Did you know?

“The Rocket,” a popular meeting spot at the fair, is named Columbia and was given to the city in the early 1960s by the U.S. Force. It was erected at the fairgrounds for $10,000 in 1969.

Compiled by Bertram Rantin