(FOX40.COM) — The wait is over. The California State Fair is officially open — and the fun is just getting started.

For the next few weeks, Californians can take on all sorts of experiences, from tasting classic fair foods to wild new rides.

Gates opened at 10 a.m. and people have been pouring in all afternoon Friday. The singer “Babyface” was set to perform at 8 p.m. and the evening ended with a fireworks show to celebrate the beginning of one of the state’s largest annual fairs.

“From LA, I’d walk the desert to come here,” one man, who told FOX40 Friday’s event at Cal Expo was the first fair he’s attended in 30 years, said. “I love my children. I love my family.”

A whirlwind of excitement — and new memories — filled the air. Fair enthusiasts could get their fill of a vast selection of traditional and innovative new sweets.

“What are you most looking forward to?” FOX40 asked a visitor from LA.

“Cotton candy,” he replied. “I’ve got a sweet tooth. This one right there.”

There was also no shortage of smiles across the fairgrounds. FOX40 asked Mia Brewer about her fair favorites. Aside from the squishies and NeeDohs available on site, Brewer said she enjoyed one ride in particular.

“The Ferris wheel,” Brewer said. “I got to ride that with my best friend and we got to look over the entire fair and that was really beautiful.”

Sunshine also radiated through the opening day festivities — shining powerfully and brightly. For the event’s 173rd year, they’re introducing an all-new King Tut exhibit, an Enchanted Forest and the California First Peoples’ Art showcase.

However, they kept classic favorites and traditions alive, too.

“I got to hang out with my friends,” Brewer smiled. “We got funnel cake and some lemonade. [We] rode some of the rides.”

Attendees said there’s one thing that sets this Sacramento-based fair apart from all the rest.

“Honestly,” Brewer said, “I think it’s the people.”

“I got a 6-month-old grandson, need I say more?” a grandfather said, surrounded by his family. “That’s the joy right there.”

FOX40 also talked to Josiah Chrebtow and some of his loved ones.

“If I was here alone, it wouldn’t be as fun, definitely,” his daughter Aria said.

“Yeah, the rides would definitely be way scarier,” their friend, Chase, added.

So FOX40 decided to test that out by hopping on one of the event’s many spinning rides.

The theme of this year’s fanfare is “Wish you were here.” Organizers said they aimed to take visitors on a tour of California — all from right here in Sacramento.

“I’m loving it, I just wish I had a babysitter. I’m just kidding,” Chrebtow joked. “I just like the atmosphere. Everybody seems happy and they’re having a good time.”

And it’s just night one. The action lasts daily through Aug. 2, with new performers taking the stage each night to add a special soundtrack to each family’s experience.

“I am due [for a fair experience], so I’ll have fun and enjoy my folks, as y’all can see,” the grandfather said.

The fireworks aren’t happening every night. Those who want to catch the shimmering show will have to check it out specifically on Fridays and Saturdays through Aug. 2.

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