That got me thinking—what a neat travel project it would be to go around the country visiting state fairs and writing about the differences. I’ve only been to the California State Fair years ago and to the Minnesota State Fair once. I can’t say I’m much of a fairgoer. I usually enjoy myself once I’m there—it’s just the idea of the crowds that puts me off. The good news is that outdoor crowds feel much easier to handle than indoor ones.
Curious, I wondered if anyone else had already written about this idea. I came across a piece called Why the State Fair is One of America’s Most Iconic Traditions (America Rewind). Even if you’re not a fair lover, the article is worth a glance—it has a reference list that really highlights the cultural importance of state fairs in America.
References
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National Association of State Fairs – History and Evolution of State Fairs
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Smithsonian Magazine – The Cultural Impact of State Fairs in America
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Library of Congress – Agricultural Exhibitions and Their Influence on Society
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American Heritage Journal – The Role of State Fairs in American Tradition
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Historical Society of the Midwest – A Look at State Fairs Through the Decades
According to my reading, 48 states and Washington D.C. host a state fair. Connecticut and Rhode Island don’t, but both celebrate with a variety of regional fairs and festivals throughout the year.
Although we didn’t make it to the Minnesota State Fair this year, I’ve been entertained by videos of fair food adventures. One man makes a whole series about finding stands without long lines, and sometimes the hidden gems turn out to be delicious. If my food budget were unlimited, I know I’d have a heyday trying everything.
So now I’ll turn it over to you—what are your favorite fair memories? Whether from a small local fair or one of the big state ones, I’d love to hear the stories that stand out to you.
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