Farm animals - sure to bring a smile - a huge part of 2nd annual Granite State Fair

Between the petting zoo and the barn animal exhibits there's plenty of critters to learn about and enjoy (Granite State Fair Facebook photo)

ROCHESTER - The Granite State Fair got off to a fast start on Thursday with a free Motocross show in the grandstand and plenty of kid-friendly animals in the petting zoo and barns.

Organizer Mark Perry promised a substantial increase in animal exhibits this year, including some adorable piglets who were seen having dinner on Thursday afternoon.

The midway opened after a final safety check by Rochester firefighters who inspected some of the high flying carnival rides.

SAFETY FIRST: A Rochester firefighter inspects one of the midway's high flying thrill rides early Thursday afternoon prior to the fair's opening. (Rochester Voice photo)

The fair opens today at 4 p.m. with a cornhole tourney beginning at 7 p.m. To register click here.

Circus performances are set for 5:30 and 8 p.m.

Saturday's School Bus Derby and Sunday's Trailer Derby require grandstand tickets. To purchase click here.