Paradise Found

Looking to take a trip to the tropics this summer? Who isn’t! Unfortunately, not all of us can afford to spend the money or take time to jet off to Fiji. Not to worry. The Mike Linnig’s Tropical Tent at the Kentucky State Fair will give you your tropical fix without the sunburn, subsequent peeling, itching and annoying aloe applications.
This year marks the 21st year the tent has visited the Fair and the wide variety of musical styles is sure to catch the attention of the whole family. Aside from the amazing seafood and tropical drinks that one would expect from any seaside getaway, Mike Linnig’s will also be offering free entertainment to tent patrons! Mike Linnig’s has some great artists joining them in paradise. Relax, have a seaside-esque meal and watch some great acts, or if you want to, be the entertainment!
Mike Linnig’s will be having their famous karaoke contest once again! “SO YOU THINK YOU CAN SING?” is always a crowd favorite, and this year the competition will be fierce, with an expected 500 to 600 competitors. For the first time, Duets will be accepted into the competition. Kids and teens have their own division, in which they will be competing for a trophy and a coveted Kentucky State Fair Blue Ribbon. Adults will be vying for…drum roll please… $1,000! But this is no backyard karaoke contest. Contestants must first make it through a qualifying round and semi-final round to compete for the grand prize, so leave your shower-rendition of “Billie Jean” at home.
The contest will be judged by local community leaders, vocal teachers and various people involved in the entertainment industry. Past winners have to wait five years before competiting again, which keeps the competition fresh and ensures that others get their chance to shine! Come watch your friends, family and neighbors rock the house! But stick around for some great professional acts too!
The HillBenders will be making an appearance. This high energy Bluegrass band released their debut album Down To My Last Dollar in spring 2010. As one of the hottest young band on the acoustic scene, The HillBenders have been winning over audiences from coast to coast with their unique style, original compositions and relentless drive. Their music is an aggressive combination of contemporary influences with traditional inspiration and instrumentation, as well as their infectiously energetic stage performances.
From down-home bluegrass to classic hits, let various impersonators take you back singing songs by Elvis, Hank Williams, Reba McEntire, Buddy Holly, Roy Orbison and others! The Diane Moore Dance academy will also be at the tent presenting “Country Legends form the Past to the Present.” Don’t miss this performance by great local talent!
So make sure you take some time during your Fair visit to stop at the Mike Linnig’s tropical tent. Get that tropical experience without getting all sandy, but bring your own tiny drink umbrellas.