The month-long 50th State Fair is up and running once again at Aloha Stadium, and here's what you can expect this time around:

» The debut of a new ride called the Dragon Coaster, a smaller-sized but just as intense roller coaster ride that can accomodate as many as 16 hardy passengers.

» Fanny Pak, the popular MTV “;America's Best Dance Crew”; group finalist from last year, is part of the fair's paid entertainment lineup ( you have to pay an extra $5 to see them, along with fair admission). They'll perform during the evenings of June 19 and June 20.

» Confirmed free entertainment included with paid admission includes all-female mudwrestling squad the Chicago Knockers during the fair's first two weekends, a “;Circus Thrill Show,”; Hedrick's Racing Pigs, “;Ag-Ventureland”; (a special area for the keiki with fun and educational agricultural activities), the Backyard Circus and Family Puppet Parade (during the first three weekends), hypnotist Scott Lewis (during the final two weekends), a special appearance by Wolverine tomorrow and Sunday, and a keiki stars show every Sunday at 5 p.m.

» Special days include a Military Appreciation Day on Memorial Day from noon to 11 p.m., which is free for all active duty and retired military personnel and their dependents (with valid military ID), and a Pepsi promotion from noon to 6 p.m. May 31 and June 7. Save $5 on the cost of a wristband and pay $18 for admission and unlimited rides only during the six-hour window with an empty 20-ounce Pepsi bottle.

» Standard-cost wristbands for the run of the fair can be purchased in advance for $23 at www.ekfernandez.com and all Ticketmaster outlets inside Honolulu Macy's stores. They're good for admission, plus unlimited rides during the following time periods: Noon to 6 p.m. Sunday; noon to 6 p.m. or 6 to 11 p.m. Memorial Day; noon to 6 p.m. Saturdays; and 6 to 11 p.m. June 11. Wristbands good for unlimited rides from 6 to 11 p.m. Fridays (except June 5) are also available for $33 each.