Every summer, as the days stretch longer and the evenings grow warmer, I find myself drawn to the local fair. There’s something about the sights, sounds, and smells that evoke a deep sense of nostalgia and joy. For me, attending the fair isn’t just an outing; it’s a cherished tradition that connects me to my childhood and brings a unique blend of excitement and comfort.
As a child, the fair was the highlight of my summer. I remember the anticipation that would build up in the weeks leading to it. My siblings and I would pore over the fair schedule, marking down the events we wanted to see and the rides we couldn’t wait to try. The night before the fair, I could barely sleep, too excited about the adventures that awaited.
On the day of the fair, we’d arrive just as the gates opened, the morning sun casting a golden glow over the fairgrounds. The first thing that always hit me was the smell—a delightful mix of popcorn, cotton candy, and sizzling hot dogs. It was a scent that meant fun and freedom, a scent that still brings a smile to my face.
I loved the sights—the vibrant colors of the rides spinning against the blue sky, the flashing lights of the game booths, and the rows of stalls selling everything from homemade jams to handcrafted jewelry. I remember the thrill of riding the Ferris wheel, the fairground spreading out beneath me like a colorful patchwork quilt. From the top, I felt like I could see forever, the horizon stretching out in a hazy summer blur.
The sounds of the fair were a symphony of joy. The laughter of children, the excited chatter of families, the ringing bells and buzzing alarms of the game booths, and the cheerful calls of the vendors—each sound was a note in the melody of the fair. I remember the delighted squeals from the tilt-a-whirl, the whoosh of the roller coaster, and the rhythmic clatter of the bumper cars.
One of my favorite parts of the fair was the livestock shows. I loved seeing the animals up close—cows, pigs, sheep, and chickens, all groomed to perfection. I was fascinated by the 4-H kids, not much older than I was, who seemed to know everything about raising and caring for their animals. Their dedication and hard work were inspiring, and I always dreamed of having my own animal to show one day (and now we own one goat named Pudgy!).
The food at the fair was a treat in itself. I still remember the first bite of a funnel cake, the crispy edges dusted with powdered sugar melting in my mouth. Corn dogs, caramel apples, fried dough—they were all part of the magic. Even now, no fair visit is complete without indulging in these childhood favorites.
As an adult, going to the fair brings back all those wonderful memories. I love watching the joy on children’s faces, knowing they’re creating their own memories that will last a lifetime. I feel a connection to my past, to those carefree days when the fair was the most exciting thing in the world.
Attending the fair each summer is my way of reliving those golden moments. It’s a reminder of simpler times, of the thrill of discovery and the joy of shared experiences. The fair is a timeless tradition, a celebration of community, and a touchstone of my childhood. Every year, it feels like coming home to a place where magic is real, and where, for a few wonderful hours, I can be a kid again and we all deserve that.
-Submitted by guest writer Maggie Blythe
Do you enjoy county and state fairs too? Check this site to find out where your next local one will be!
