Visit the DNR at the State Fair

Get ready for a jam-packed DNR lineup at the Indiana State Fair, which runs from Aug. 2-18, excluding Mondays.

Coni Hudson, director of special projects with DNR Division of Communications, who leads the DNR's fair effort, said there's something for everyone.

"In 2023, our guests provided us with valuable feedback and expressed a keen interest in additional educational and skill-building opportunities," she said. "We have something to offer to nature lovers at every level."

Experts will be available to answer your nature-related questions at the Natural Resources Building. Live animals can be viewed at the backyard amphitheater. The Fishin' Pond, fluttering butterfly gardens, and more will also be offered as part of the celebration of this year's overall State Fair theme, "The Art & Nature of Fun."

Ever thought about the leafy wonders surrounding the building? DNR's green thumbs will offer a tour of this natural oasis to help you dive into the world of Indiana's native plants and discover how planting natives in your area can support conservation. Check the link below to find out when and where to meet these botanical experts.

Also new this year, mark your calendar for Natural History Day, Aug. 15, when the DNR and its partners will offer a variety of programs, including presentations on archaeology, geodes, fossils, and more.

Of course, the classic fair favorites will be waiting too, such as the daily morning live reptile show at the amphitheater and the daily late-afternoon live birds of prey, which also takes place at the amphitheater. Make sure to swing by the floodplain model in action and stop at the invasive species booth. Indiana Conservation Officers will be available to answer hunting and fishing regulation questions and get acquainted at the DNR Law Enforcement booth, where you can also watch some demonstrations.

Again this year, kids ages 5 to 17 can reel in some fun for free on Friday, Saturday, and Sunday mornings and afternoons at the Fishin' Pond. On other days, the pond will offer all sorts of other exciting activities open to anyone. If you are a novice angler, catch the new presentation called Rods and Reels, which is an introduction to fishing and choosing the right gear. Bowfishing demonstrations will also be offered.

Inside, the renovations completed before last year's fair still shine, including fresh paint and new bathrooms, and there's air conditioning for a rest on those hot days.

Mother Nature's Mercantile will be open daily for shirts, hats, and keepsakes. Fair goers may also buy an annual state park entrance pass and buy or renew Outdoor Indiana magazine subscriptions.

Back outside, remember to check out the fish in the display ponds.

For a complete listing of DNR activities at the fair, see dnr.IN.gov/statefair.

To view more DNR news releases, please see dnr.IN.gov.