Small-town, summertime fairs are the birthplaces of many potent childhood memories -- from first kisses to first-place ribbons, to winning that coveted stuffed animal to the thrill of sitting high above the crowd on a Ferris wheel. The lights, sights, smells and sounds are magical. And folks, the first fair of the year is here.

The Best of Humboldt Fair, running June 25 to June 28 at Redwood Acres Fairgrounds, offers four days of family fun guaranteed to unleash the kid in everyone. In addition to cotton candy and the carnival, this year's fair features several special attractions. There's the Kidz Science Safari, the Aussie Kingdom with its too cute, touchable kangaroos, wallabies and walleroos, and free concerts by up-and-coming country music star McKenna Faith. Nature Joe's on hand with his Animal Exhibit, the Birdman Bird Show soars with free-flying condors and other avians, and for the adrenaline junkies, there's flat track motorcycle racing and BMX freestyle stunt performances.

Take advantage on Thursday, June 25 when admission to the fair is free until 3 p.m. Admission for most days is $10 adults, $5 seniors and kids. Active military personnel and veterans get in free. Carnival wristbands, ride tickets and events at the grandstand are purchased separately. See www.redwoodacres.com for more details and special admission prices.

Let your inner kid run free, but be careful when combining chili dogs, funnel cakes, root beer floats and rides with names like "Hammer Time" and "The Typhoon." That's one memory you don't want to take with you.