CONTOOCOOK – Whether making the trip for the demolition derby, agricultural displays or simply a sausage sandwich, visitors from all over come to take in the sights, sounds and smells of the annual Hopkinton State Fair.

The fair, which runs annually on Labor Day weekend, will be opening for its 93rd year beginning Thursday, Aug. 28, at the Hopkinton Fairgrounds.

According to Hopkinton State Fair President Debbie Curtis, planning for the five-day event begins not too long after it ends each year.

“It’s a seasonal fair, but it’s definitely a year-round process,” said Curtis. “As we get into August, things really pick up. There’s a lot of prep in getting the grounds ready, scheduling the events, setting up ticket sales and things like that.”

At the Country Porch Stage there will be daily shows, including free bicycle and skateboard demonstrations, with high-flying athletes performing a variety of tricks.

Visitors will get to be a part of Ron Diamond’s show, as the hypnotist and magician will put on three shows each day, with the night performance giving some members of the audience a chance to be put under hypnosis.

Many of the regular aspects of the fair remain the same, including the agricultural competitions and one of the fan favorites, the demolition derby, which will take place on Saturday and Sunday, with seating beginning at 5:30 p.m.

In addition to those annual events, there will also be some new shows for fair-goers to take in.

On Thursday and Friday, Aug. 28 and 29, there will be a motocross bike competition for the first time at the fair, and any riders are welcome to take part in the course.

Fair organizers have been busy preparing the motocross track, hauling in dirt to make the jumps for the riders.

Curtis said it is important for the Hopkinton community to bring in the large crowds into town each year. “It’s very important and it’s great being able to offer it to visitors,” said Curtis. “It is important that we keep agriculture in our families to understand where things come from and what it brings.”

In addition to all of the shows and exhibits, there is also a variety of food and rides to take in.

According to Curtis, the biggest key to the fair’s success is being able to keep guests of all ages entertained.

“There’s a little bit of everything. It’s very important to have variety,” said Curtis. “Everyone has their own reason for coming to the fair, so you have to provide something for everyone. You have to have a mixture of it all.”

For more information and a complete schedule of the Hopkinton State Fair’s events, visit www.hsfair.org.