A large-scale fair billed as the Great American State Fair has kicked off on the National Mall in Washington, D.C., and it is expected to run for 16 days.
Despite the festive setup, not every state government has chosen to get on board. Several have opted out of official participation in the event. However, organizers say that should not stop visitors from seeing representation from across the country — they maintain that all U.S. states and territories will have booths set up along the National Mall.
Preparations for the event were visible on the Mall in the days leading up to the opening, with crews working to get displays and exhibits ready for the public.
