Evan Brandt/MDN Ava Burckhard, Jheri Flannigan and Melissa Erhart, from left to right, help give Flannigan’s niece a great first North Dakota State Fair experience.

One little fairgoer was soaking in the flashing lights, the sweet scent of mini donuts and the chorus of carnival sounds for the very first time – with plenty of love and support in tow.

Three friends from the area, Ava Burckhard, Jheri Flannigan and Melissa Erhart, made a special day out of helping Flannigan’s niece experience her first North Dakota State Fair this week. The tiny guest, cradled safely in her aunt’s arms, took in the sights and sounds of the fair with wide eyes and plenty of cuddles.

“We just wanted to give her a fun day and make some memories,” said Flannigan, smiling down at the baby in her arms. “Even though she won’t remember this, we definitely will.”

The trio strolled through rows of games, toy stands and food vendors, stopping often to take in the atmosphere. They posed for pictures, laughed together, and even made time for some ribbon fries — a fair must.

“It’s just really special to be here with family,” said Erhart. “We’ve all grown up coming to this fair, and now we get to share it with the next kids in line.”

While the baby may not have been quite ready for the rides just yet, her first trip to the fairgrounds was filled with warmth, color and the kind of joyful noise only the fair can bring. For these local women, it was a day to celebrate family, friendship and a brand-new tradition in the making.