Thursday kicks off the 14th annual Cumming Country Fair & Festival, and to get things started right, admission is free for all.

"We usually have a good crowd opening night," said fairgrounds administrator Dave Horton.

Horton said for first-time visitors, here's a quick checklist of things to see: "Take a look at our Heritage Village and Indian villages to learn about the past and see the historical demonstrations. See our ground acts like our new alligator show and the high dive show. Check those out by all means."

Other ground acts at the fair include a friendly radio-controlled robot, a chainsaw artist, pig races, a bike stunt show and a petting zoo.

If that's not enough to keep fairgoers entertained, the Drew Exposition is back again with more than 40 midway rides and attractions, along with the historic Seattle Wheel.

Unlimited fair rides today are $18. The fair is open from 4 to 10 p.m. Parking is $3.

Regular admission on non-discount nights is $7 for adults, $3 for students ages 5 to 18. Children under age 4 get in free.

The fair runs through Oct. 12. For more information, visit (770) 781-3491 or go online at www.cummingfair.net.