39 State Fairs Photos From Around the U.S. That Will Have You Feeling Pre-Pandemic Summer Nostalgia
These state fair photos show all the fun of fairs, from fried food to livestock competitions.
Each summer and fall, state fairs are held around the country as celebrations of state pride that feature fun carnival rides, delicious food, and a slew of livestock competitions. They're the best place to go if you want a freshly fried funnel cake, mouth-watering corn dogs, and desserts even Willy Wonka couldn't have imagined. And whether you're entering a farming or livestock competition or merely acting as a spectator, you'll be amazed at what you can find at a state fair. These state fair photos from across the U.S. show some of the wonders that can be experienced at these yearly celebrations.
Though many state fairs have been cancelled this year due to the pandemic and social distancing, these state fair photos will put you back in the action and bring back all your fondest state fair memories. And if you're really missing the state fairs this summer, consider bringing some of the best parts of the fairs home by making some fancy hot dogs.
Arizona State Fair
A couple rides an amusement ride at the Arizona State Fair.
California State Fair
Two Ferris wheels illuminate in front of the California sunset.
Colorado State Fair
Two men in western garb watch the livestock competition at the 2006 fair.
Iowa State Fair
Carnival game winners carry home their giant prizes at last year's fair.
California State Fair
Some freshly fried food, a staple of state fairs.
Iowa State Fair
An impressive butter statue of a cow is displayed at the Iowa State Fair in 2019.
California State Fair
State fair attendees play carnival games and ride amusement rides in 2008.
Colorado State Fair
State fair visitors ride a carnival ride after the sun has set.
California State Fair
People line up for tasty desserts at the 2012 fair.
Iowa State Fair
Produce is displayed and carefully judged during a farming competition at the 2007 fair.
Colorado State Fair
A young boy shows off his prize-winning rabbits at the 2017 fair.
Illinois State Fair
Performer Elvis Himselvis gives the 2005 crowd a little old-school entertainment.
Colorado State Fair
A young woman shows off her cow during a 2006 livestock competition.
Illinois State Fair
President Eisenhower visits the Illinois State Fair back in the day.
Colorado State Fair
Kids run through a fountain to cool off from the 2016 summer heat.
Florida State Fair
American clown and daredevil Bello Nock prepares for a performance at the 2011 Florida State Fair.
Illinois State Fair
A boy shows off his livestock to be judged during the 2005 fair.
Michigan State Fair
Livestock on display for judging at the 2001 Michigan State Fair.
Florida State Fair
A snack outpost proudly displays its offerings with neon signs.
Iowa State Fair
A pageant winner high fives a young girl during the 2019 parade.
Kelsey Hurwitz is the associate features editor for The Pioneer Woman Magazine. When she's not writing about ranch life, home decor and food, she can be found knitting and catching up on her favorite reality TV shows.
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