Tuesday afternoon was an exciting day at the Mower County Fair as many youngsters and teens tried out new rides.

“I’m going to go on that one again!” 6-year-old JaQuan Ransom said as he pointed across the new midway.

For the first time in more than 30 years, a new midway was introduced to the fair. GoldStar Amusements replaced Merriam’s Midway Shows, and for many fair-goers, the change was welcomed with open arms.

“It’s different than last year,” Gabriel Ramirez-Hernandez, 20, said. “Change is good.”

Many riders were pleased with the mix of new and old rides.

“There’s different rides, but also some old ones from last year,” Jacob Poorman, 11, said. “They’re all fun though.”

Jacob chose to purchase $1 individual ride tickets, which was a special price for the first day. Baylee Phillips, however, opted for the week-long Passport to Mower Fun ride pass. Though she is satisfied with her purchase, she wishes there were more ride options for teens.

“There are a lot of little kid rides,” Phillips said.

Some older riders were disappointed the Zipper didn’t return, as well as the lack of a Ferris Wheel.

“I didn’t like [the rides] as much this year,” Marrissa Lund, 15, said. “It’s missing the Zipper, a Ferris Wheel and the Spaceship.”

Among new rides were the Yoyo, Ring of Fire and Spider.

Though Kennedy Novy, 17, hadn’t been on the rides at the Mower County Fair yet, she attended a different fair with the same midway company.

“The Ring of Fire feels like a Valley Fair ride,” she said. “It’s amazing.”

Passport to Mower Fun ride passes are available and are good throughout the week. Other day passes for teens and children will be available.