Ever since I attended my first county fair in New Jersey in 1985, I’ve been hooked on that kind of down-home hospitality and entertainment. Being somewhat deprived of the simple, country life as a child in Brooklyn, the homemade preserves, mile-high pies, giant vegetables and wild assortment of show animals proved to be irresistible attractions that keep me coming back for more.

The annual Volusia County Fair and Youth Show is taking place at the Volusia County Fairgrounds in Deland (about a 20-minute drive from central Daytona Beach sites like Volusia Mall and Daytona International Airport) Nov. 1 - 11.

Rides and attractions… talent shows and competitions… fascinating and educational exhibits, and a whole lot more. Concerts cost $10, besides general admission, which ranges from free to $8. Craig Morgan and Jason Aldean, with Jim Van Fleet & the Reign, are country stars who will draw a nice crowd. But I’ll be visiting the fair on Senior Day, Nov. 6,

when old-timers like me get free admission and a chance to enjoy one of all-time, rock-and-roll’s most legendary groups, Danny and the Juniors. I can’t wait to hear and watch them do At the Hop at the Tommy Lawrence Arena.

Last year, the senior concert headliner was Gary Lewis. Seeing him and his group perform blasts from my past was such a treat. He’s still quite the charmer and puts on a great golden oldies show with favorites like This Diamond Ring and Count Me In.

So, if you’re in the Daytona area, do come out and spend a day or evening at the fair. The sights, sounds and smell of fair food are so much fun. And if this is a first for you or your kids or grandkids, it won’t be your last.

For everything you’d like or need to know about the fair, go to http://volusiacountyfair.com/

post by pearl