On April 24 and 25, Snohomish County will host a Spring Recreation Expo at the Evergreen State Fairgrounds, featuring outdoor and leisure-related exhibits along with carnival rides and favorite fair food.

The free, two-day expo produced by Snohomish County Parks and Recreation will feature displays and demonstrations on camping, fishing, landscaping, gardening, climbing and boating. Hours will be 10 a.m.-7 p.m. Saturday and 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Sunday.

"Everything the family or serious adventurer needs to enjoy the beautiful outdoors of Snohomish County will be on display," said Snohomish County Executive Aaron Reardon. "This two-day expo is a great opportunity to see just what Snohomish County offers and to prepare for that experience."

"The Evergreen State Fairgrounds is a tremendous regional asset hosting several hundred events each year," said Councilman Dave Somers. "The Council is excited about another great family activity that brings folks together at the Fairgrounds." Co-sponsored by outdoor gear company REI, one of two outdoor stages will host experts presenting topics on trail running, mountain biking, hiking, climbing and other outdoor adventure topics beginning at 11 a.m. both days.

A second stage will feature a variety of topics including how to make that winning entry for fair, Master Gardening, 4-H and FFA public presentations. To add atmosphere, the Funtastic Traveling Shows Carnival will bring a great selection of rides and games to the event.

The carnival will be open 4 to 10 p.m. Thursday and Friday, April 22-23, and 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. the days of the expo. Favorite Fair foods such as scones and elephant ears will be available for those who just cant wait until summer. In addition, the elite Washington State Hunter and Jumper Show, 4-H Dog Caper with participants from throughout the State, Evergreen Speedway Auto Races featuring the Legends and Drag Racing events also are scheduled at the fairgrounds that weekend.