This Summer’s Standout State Fairs
Nothing says good old-fashioned summer fun quite like a state fair. With exhibits, music, games, and plenty of food, head to one of these fairs this season for a deep-fried good time.
Sacramento is home to this state fair, which features free horse races, concerts, and classic amusement rides that anyone will enjoy. There’s a unique range of other live sporting events taking place, like dog races, cornhole championships, and motorcross races. Being close to Napa Valley, adults are sure to flock to the wine exhibits, or if history is more your speed, there’s an adventurous dinosaur exhibit or a classic car show going on as well.
Since 1854, Iowa’s state fair has been going strong, and remains one of the biggest fairs in the nation. Over a million people visit this fair over the 11 days it’s in operation, and the entertainment value is substantial. Some of last year’s headliners included Casting Crowns, Sugarland, and Florida Georgia Line. But food is the true MVP, with their “food on a stick” options ranging from deep fried brownies to jalapeno corndogs.
Louisville’s annual state fair is nothing short of a spectacle. Horse shows galore, acrobats, magic shows, and various other traditions make this an annual event for generations of families. The event also has its own app, which provides fair goers with numerous interactive features to keep them aware of the entertainment going on throughout the grounds.
The Alaska State Fair takes place in the surrounding Anchorage area, with the main attraction being the musical acts the fair features. Last year’s concert series included the Goo Goo Dolls and Luke Combs, among others. There’s farm exhibits to show off Alaska’s best in honey & beekeeping, flowers, and livestock, as well as ones for arts & crafts, woodwork, and photography.