It’s fair time in Des Moines. But put away your suntan lotion and bug spray because this fair is inside. The KDSM Fox-17 Family Fair promises to have all the action and fun of a real fair, but without the scorching August heat, biting insects or the possibility of stepping in cow pies.

Instead of looking for the sheep barn, go to Vets Auditorium in Des Moines this weekend, and find Joel West, Calvin Klein supermodel from Indianola. Or boldly go and find “Star Trek Voyager’s” Robert Duncan McNeill who plays Lieutenant Tom Paris. Lacey Chambert, who plays Claudia on Fox’s “Party of Five” also will be on hand to greet fans and sign autographs.

This it the third year KDSM has hosted the event, which is larger and better than ever, said Josh Alsberg, assistant coordinator of the Fox-17 Family Fair.

Previously, the event was called Kid’s Fair, but this year, the name changed to Family Fair. “It’s not just for kids,” Alsberg explained. “Although many attractions are geared toward kids, there are many family-oriented activities also.”

Highlights include laser tag from Laser X — the ultimate in computerized combat inside a futuristic labyrinth. In Virtual Reality 2000, participants interface with cyberspace and become immersed in a 3-D cyberworld.

Kids can catch a wave on the Surf Simulator, slide down the Super Slide, take a leap on the Bungee Bounce or ride one of many carnival rides.

Best of all, almost all rides and attractions are free with paid admission, Alsberg said.

Live entertainment and celebrities will appear throughout the day on three different stages. Magician Ben Ulin, Fox’s Kid’s Club host Michele, comedian Lee Cole and the Air Force’s Heartland of America Band will all be there, as well as many other shows and appearances by WWF wrestlers, Batman and Robin, and Bart and Lisa Simpson.

Fair-goers have the chance to be a commander of the starship Enterprise, a sports announcer for NFL football or to compete in a “Home Improvement” lawnmower race in The Magic of Television location.

“The Magic of Television is an exciting area were people can star in their own video,” Alsberg said.

In addition to the exciting games and entertainment, a portion of the proceeds will be donated to Junior Achievement of Central Iowa. “KDSM Fox-17 created the Family Fair to offer their best in fun and entertainment to enhance our commitment to kids through the Family Fair beneficiary, Junior Achievement,” Alsberg said.

Thousands of dollars in prizes, including a trip for four to Disney World, a $4,000 “Home Improvement” giveaway, shopping sprees and gift certificates from Toys R Us will be given away every hour.

More than 100 booths and activity areas with interactive games and activities, along with sample products and coupons from different vendors will span two floors of Vets Auditorium.

The Family Fair is April 27 and 28; hours for both days are 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. The fair is held at Veterans Memorial Auditorium in downtown Des Moines. Admission is $5 for adults, $4 for children; children 2 and under are free.

Coupons are available at participating Subways. For more information, contact Alsberg or Tina DePhillips at (515) 287-1717.