The 2011 Rapides Parish Fair, in Alexandria, Oct. 12-16, 2011.  This year the Rapides Parish Fair will be held on the Rapides Coliseum Fairgrounds and celebrates its 51st anniversary.

The Mighty Thomas Carnival traveling show will provide thrilling rides, fun games, and tasty carnival treats. Founded in 1928 in Lennox, South Dakota by Art B. Thomas, the carnival is now based near Austin, Texas, and is providing its 82nd season of fun and excitement for fair-goers.

Feature attractions on the midway include Pharoh's Fury, Tilt a Whirl, the Spider, and more. New rides this year include: the Spin Out thrill ride, the Moby Dick, the Cobra Coaster, and a family roller coaster.

Entry of Arts and Crafts will take place on Tuesday October 11, 2011, between the hours of 11 AM and 6 PM at the Coliseum Exhibition Hall. All 4-H, FFA members, and adult exhibitors from Rapides Parish can participate.