Lousy at goodbyes and dreading summer’s send-off? This year, let Labor Day ring in a post-summer season of perpetual sun and fun at one of the big-time fairs setting up through October. Ignore your calendar; if you’re on a midway eating a hot dog on a stick, it can only be summer.
Minnesota State Fair
St. Paul, August 21-September 1
Mchaela says: “Something for everyone: lots of food on a stick, odorous livestock buildings, beer, concerts, contests, free stuff, and carnival rides that make you sick. What could be better?! There is so much to see and do for the whole family that I could never do it justice.”
Los Angeles County Fair
Pomona, September 5-28
Craig Randall says: “As former food vendors and now annual pilgrims to the greatest little county fair in California, we recommend the following places for ‘must-eat’ food at the fair: Texas Donuts; Hot Dog on a Stick (for lemonade...only for the lemonade); BBQ corn-on-the-cob from multiple vendors; and the Mexican Village (order some pozole for a hot treat).”
Oklahoma State Fair
Oklahoma City, September 11-21
zheiladarling says: “This is great for fun with friends and family. Plenty of rides, games, shows (Disney on Ice, concerts, car shows), and great food.”
Bloomsburg Fair
Bloomsburg, PA, September 20-27
MalervyC says: “There are rides, concerts, auctions, and FOOD! I'm not talking our typical fair treats. I'm talking home-cooked sausage and peppers, perogies, various potpies, corn dogs, chili dogs, cheese dogs...the best food north of the Susquehanna. The concerts draw big names: Hall & Oates, Lynard Skynard, LeAnn Rimes, and Reba McEntyre.”
State Fair of Texas
Dallas, September 26-October 19
Christie says: “I highly recommend the State Fair of Texas for anyone who is either visiting Dallas or who lives in the area. There are all sorts of things to do for people of all ages. There are concerts, livestock shows, demonstrations, exhibits, and (of course) food! One of the most popular areas is the auto show, where all the new cars are displayed in a salesman-free environment.”
Arkansas State Fair
Little Rock, October 10-19
ducksunset says: “While I don’t go to fairs every year, I did enjoy myself at this one, especially the good food that was available. There was a rodeo, four entertainment stages, livestock shows and auctions, a 10-acre midway, and every type of food you can think of. 4H and FFA students spend the whole year getting their animals ready for judging here, and many schools close for at least one fair day.”
Greater Gulf State Fair
Mobile, AL, October 17-26
Samlawali says: “After all the vendors, I came to the huge midway. This was one of the biggest setups of rides and games I have ever seen. There had to be close to 50 rides set up, from the huge log flume to the gigantic slide to the carousel swings to the flip-do-doo. I also passed a haunted mansion and basketball toss as well as the endless line of shooting, tossing, and balloon-popping games.”
Have a comment about this blog post? Log in or register to discuss blog topics on the IgoUgo Forums.