You can almost hear the music, smell the food and feel the drops of sweat running down your neck. It's that time again.
Get out your jeans and cowboy boots as the Four States Fair and Rodeo is off and running with nine more days of fun, including today. The good times last through Sept. 22.
And it is going to be hot - as usual. But that has never seemed to deter the folks around here. And since the next six days are projected to be sunny, expected crowds.
This is the 75nd year for the Texarkana tradition, and this year's event promises to be a lot of fun for young and old.
Part of that fun is the carnival, with dozens of flashing, swirling rides on the midway, in addition to challenging games where one can win a stuffed animal or some other keepsake.
And, of course, don't forget the lure of fair foods. Many patrons hit the fair just to sample the offerings from the church and civic groups, as well as professional vendors.
There are also numerous art and craft exhibits and the popular petting zoo and livestock area.
Saturday at 10 a.m., the annual fair parade will roll through downtown Texarkana. And Saturday night will feature the annual demolition derby.
The PRCA Rodeo starts Thursday. Fans can enjoy bull and calf roping, steer wrestling, bareback and saddle bronc riding and women's barrel racing, among other events, as well as the antics of the rodeo clowns.
The Four States Fair and Rodeo has been a part of our community since 1945. For many, going to the fair is a family tradition. Residents who attended the fair as children in those first years are now bringing their grandchildren.
In an era when many fairs are being forced to shut down because of declining attendance, our fair carries on and just keeps getting better.
So head out to the fair and have a great time. It's a bit of nostalgia, alive and well right here in Texarkana.
It's a once-a-year tradition that is worth the wait.