From sheep and goats to giraffes and zebras, there were many animals on display (Source: WBOC)

HARRINGTON, Del. - The 97th annual Delaware State Fair kicked off Thursday morning, with rides, music, food, and fun. The event brings in thousands of people each year.

On Thursday morning, WBOC spent some time at the fair, and spoke with some of the families visiting. The first stop was an exhibit with dozens of goats, which was being enjoyed by the Reiter family.

"I feel like kids remember more of a family vacation if they're able to make a really cool memory," said Karen Reiter. "You know, you can sit and watch TV at home, so it's neat that you get to see something that not everyone gets to see every day."

This was one of many animal exhibits spread throughout the fairgrounds. At another tent, Cassie Ball, a student at Caesar Rodney High School, joined her two friends in taking care of some sheep on display. She said the event was a great way to bring Delawareans together.

"It's just kind of like a big huge love for everyone," she said. "To come together and share something that you love to do. Like your passion."

Beyond animal exhibits, there are also hundreds of food vendors and carnival games. John Giogo of Greenwood was one of the vendors, and said he had been working carnivals like this one for 40 years.

"I've been playing this since I was 22," he said. "And I love it. I've always loved it."

Meanwhile, at Danny's Fine Foods, the grills were ablaze, and the meet was sizzling. Manager Jose Cruz said that the business had been set up at the Delaware State Fair for the last 54 years.

"We have the hot Italian sausage right here. This is sweet Italian sausage. This is one of our top sellers right here. We have a sandwich which we call Danny Deluxe. That means it's everything we have on the grill. Onions, peppers, mushrooms, cheese sauce. People love it."

Kyle Short was taking in the sights and sounds of the carnival with his two children.

"My mom always made it a point to take us over here," he said. "Yeah definitely. Now I love coming out here with the kids and passing it on."

Down at the main strip of the fair, Olivia Lewandowski, from Camden, was getting a caricature done. She said coming to the fair is always a highlight of her summer.

"It's been really fun," she said. "Because of the rides. And the food and so many things to see."