This year's State Fair features a lot of the new, with a nod to the past.

For the 70th anniversary of the fall event, the state has gussied up the fairgrounds in Albuquerque's Southeast Heights.

For starters, it has renovated the Palomino Barns, the first structures erected on the grounds, built in the 1930s. The project cost $1.2 million.

"The fair just has a different face and different feel on it because of everything that's been done to the grounds," said spokesman Michael Henningsen.

"If you come out here and look at Indian Village, it's unrecognizable. It's completely brand new," he said.

The Fine Art Gallery also has been remodeled.

All the new parts of the fair — including 160 trees — don't mean the past will be forgotten during the 17-day event that starts Friday.

Visitors on Sept. 19 can meet about 35 of the past state fair queens, including Wilma Vaughan Fulgham, the first queen, who was crowned in 1950.

And the state is hoping to reach back to the days when parking didn't cost so much. This year, general parking for the length of the event will be free, saving drivers $7. Admission will be half-price for the two Tuesdays of the event as well.

In addition, new signs will let drivers know well in advance when lots are full in hopes of avoiding congestion around the area.

Even with the changes, there are still many staples to be had: fair food, rodeo and livestock events, mariachis, pie contests, art contests, a petting zoo and carnival rides. Expect a politician or two on the fairgrounds during the event, as well.

This year's celebration also comes as other big changes are on the horizon.

Gov. Bill Richardson is soliciting ideas to redevelop the area for when The Downs at Albuquerque moves to Moriarty. It's unclear, however, when the casino and racetrack will move.

For now though, the focus is on the lineup of acts, which includes the Grand Funk Railroad, War, James Otto and the Gin Blossoms.

"This lineup has really shaped up to be one of the strongest I've seen in terms of new-horizon country stars," State Fair Commission Chairman Luke Otero said in a statement.

"We've got everything from raw country talent to young television superstars, and established world-class country solo artists and the quintessential American band to help us celebrate our 70th anniversary."

Other performers will include Vanessa Hudgens and Corbin Bleu from High School Musical, Ronnie Milsap, Luke Bryan, Terri Clark, Clay Walker and Lady Antebellum, and Molly Hatchet.

Other highlights during the event include:

• The 13th annual Battle of the Salsas, 1 to 3 p.m. Sept. 13, in the courtyard of the Agriculture Building.

• Performances by the Mapapa African Acrobats, who will perform Thursdays through Sundays.

• A Green Expo hosted by the state Environment Department. The exhibit will feature free information on living in an environmentally sustainable way.

• The slingshot thrill ride, which launches riders 220 to 240 feet into the air.

• The new Ghirardelli chocolate championship Monday

• Performances by Eric Burdon and The Animals

Contact Kate Nash at 986-3036 or knash@sfnewmexican.com. Read her blog, Green Chile Chatter, at www.santafenewmexican.com.

FAIR BASICS

When: Friday through Sept. 21
Admission: $9 adults; $5 seniors; $4 ages 3-12
Half-price admission: Tuesdays, Saturday and Sept. 16
General parking: Free this year
The parade: The 70th-anniversary-theme parade on Central Avenue, 8:30 a.m. Saturday.
To learn more about this year's events, visit www.exponm.com.