We are heading into one of my favorite seasons. Yes, I love summer (and fall) but that’s not what I’m talking about. I’m so excited because we are heading into Fair Season!

If you’ve ever been to a county or state fair, then you probably feel it to. If you haven’t, you don’t know what you’re missing! What’s incredible about many of the fairs in our country is that they have held onto old-time traditions over decades, and in some cases, over hundreds of years.

Sure, if you walk down a mid-way you’ll find faster rides, more technologically advanced games and just about any type of fried food you could ever imagine (we’re talking even fried Oreos!) But ultimately, images from a bygone era prevail. Walking through the front gate of a small town fair is like stepping back in time. You can peruse loads of homegrown vegetables, including pumpkins the size of a car. Hand-made quilts and clothing, pies, jams and jellies….the best ones with a prized blue ribbon attached!

Head to the grandstand for the oxen pull, where these large beasts try to beat each other out by seeing which team can pull the weight the farthest. Not interested in that? Check back for the fireman’s muster or make your way to the big top where kids are racing anything from frogs to piglets.

If you’ve ever wondered what those 4-H kids do, look for science projects on display or take in a show where cows, sheep or goats raised by these hard-working individuals are judged on their form, shape, cleanliness and more.

There is something for just about everyone at the fair. So check out the closest one in your neck of the woods and spend a day enjoying some yummy fair food (fries, cotton candy, funnel cakes) and supporting your local community!