8 Popular State Fairs and the Foods that Make Them Great

Minnesota State Fair

Known affectionately as "The Great Minnesota Get-Together," the Minnesota State Fair in St. Paul is one of the largest state fairs in the United States, drawing around 2 million visitors over its 12-day run. Despite being shorter in duration than some other large fairs, it packs in a ton of entertainment and culinary delights. On a busy day, you might find over 150,000 people enjoying the festivities, from the animal barns to the national musical acts. And let’s not forget the famous Giant Slide that’s been thrilling fairgoers for generations.

Even with all these amazing attractions, the true star of the Minnesota State Fair is the food. And nothing says Minnesota State fair quite like food on a stick! Whether it’s Pronto Pups (Minnesota’s version of a corn dog) or giant pickles, food on a stick makes it extra-fun and portable for eating while you take in the sights. And don’t forget that Minnesota State Fair staple, deep-fried cheese curds. For a taste of this fair at home, try making some State Fair Crescent Cheese Curds. These crispy, gooey bites capture the taste of the fair in every mouthful. Or whip up some Cornbread Corn Dogs for a fun twist on the classic. And for dessert, Chocolate Chip Cookies inspired by the legendary Sweet Martha’s Cookies are a must!

Source

Iowa State Fair

The Iowa State Fair, one of the oldest and largest agricultural and industrial expositions in the country, is an essential stop on any fair lover’s list. This iconic event, held annually in Des Moines, draws nearly a million visitors each year, who are eager to check out free concerts and family entertainment, join in on the Governor’s Steer Show, or compete in quirky contests like the Ugliest Cake Competition.

The food at the Iowa State Fair is what truly makes it memorable. One of the most loved treats is the Pork Chop on a Stick—a simple yet incredibly flavorful bite that captures the spirit of Iowa’s farming heritage. You can recreate this state fair classic at home with these juicy, delicious Parmesan Crusted Pork Chops. And when your sweet tooth takes over, the fair’s deep-fried Twinkies are a must-try. Get your fill any time of the year with this recipe for Deep Fried Candy Bars—a decadent treat that’s perfect for a fair-themed party. If you’re craving something cool and refreshing, try a slice of Peppermint French Silk Pie, a nod to Bauder’s Peppermint Bar, a fair exclusive that’s loved by locals.

Source

Ohio State Fair

With a history dating back to 1850, the Ohio State Fair is one of the longest-standing fairs in the United States. Held in Columbus, the fair is famous for its life-sized Butter Cow sculpture, a must-see attraction that draws impressive crowds year after year. Beyond the butter art, the Ohio State Fair is packed with fun activities, including circus performances, daily parades, and cooking contests that showcase local talent.

The food at the Ohio State Fair is just as impressive as the attractions. Fried Buckeyes are a fan favorite, a delicious nod to Ohio’s official state tree. You can bring a bit of the Ohio State Fair to your kitchen with these Peanut Butter Chocolate Truffles, a rich and indulgent, Buckeye-like treat. Another must-try is roasted corn on the cob, which you can easily make at home with this Boiled Corn on the Cob recipe. And for dessert, give these Strawberry Lemonade Crescent Cream Puffs a try. They’re a light and airy treat that’s a nod to the fair’s famous cream puffs.

Source

Texas State Fair

Everything is bigger in Texas, and the Texas State Fair is no exception! Held in Dallas, this is the largest state fair in the United States in terms of attendance, drawing over 2.5 million visitors during its 24-day run. The fair is best known for its mascot, Big Tex, a 55-foot-tall cowboy who greets visitors as they enter the fairgrounds. Other highlights include the Red River Showdown football game between Texas and Oklahoma and, of course, the incredible array of fried foods that are a hallmark of the fair.

One of the most famous dishes at the Texas State Fair is Fried Butter—yes, you read that right! Balls of frozen butter are battered and deep-fried until golden, creating a crispy, melt-in-your-mouth treat that’s surprisingly delicious. If you’re feeling adventurous, try making these Oreo-Stuffed Crescents for a fun, sweet snack. Another fair staple is the Corny Dog, the original corn dog on a stick, which can be recreated with this Cornbread Corn Dogs recipe that adds a Southern spin with its cornbread coating.

Source

North Carolina State Fair

The North Carolina State Fair in Raleigh is a celebration of Southern charm and family-friendly fun. Known for its traditional feel, this fair offers everything from agricultural exhibits to a huge variety of entertainment options. One of the most popular attractions is the Village of Yesteryear, where you can watch artisans demonstrate traditional crafts. The nightly fireworks display is another highlight that draws crowds to the fairgrounds. Food is a central part of the experience at the North Carolina State Fair, with an emphasis on deep-fried delicacies. Deep Fried Cinnamon Apple Bread Pudding Bites are a standout treat, combining warm, comforting flavors with a crispy exterior. You can make your own version at home with this Biscuit Bread Pudding recipe. For something savory, try the Buffalo Chicken Waffles, a fun and spicy twist on a classic. And don’t forget the Bacon Mac ‘N Cheese Bites, which offer a perfect bite-sized version of a fair favorite.

Source

New York State Fair

The New York State Fair, held every year in Syracuse, is a diverse and vibrant event that showcases the best of the state’s agricultural heritage along with modern-day entertainment. The fair features everything from the Dairy Cow Birthing Center to the State Fair SkyRide, offering something for everyone. Music lovers can also enjoy numerous free concerts by national and local artists throughout the fair’s run.

When it comes to food, the New York State Fair offers a little bit of everything, but some of the most iconic dishes include Salt Potatoes, Gianelli Sausage Sandwiches, and Wine Slushies. For a taste of Syracuse at home, try these Sausage and Pepper Calzones, which capture the essence of one of the fair’s most hearty, flavorful offerings. And when it’s time to cool down, mix up this Strawberry Citrus Slush that’s perfect for sipping on a hot summer day.

Source

The Big E

The Big E, also known as New England's Great State Fair, is a unique event that represents all six New England states. Held annually in West Springfield, MA, it’s the only multi-state fair, offering a one-of-a-kind experience that blends all the traditions and flavors of New England. One of the most famous attractions is the Avenue of States, where each state has its own building showcasing replicas and historical exhibits from the original Colonies.

Food at The Big E is as diverse as the fair itself, with options ranging from lobster rolls and stuffed clams  to pastries. But no visit is complete without trying The Big E Cream Puff, a massive, airy pastry filled with a mountain of whipped cream. You can try a taste of this iconic treat at home with these Strawberry Cream Cheese Cream Puffs. For something savory, try this delicious Baked Clam Dip that captures the flavors of the New England coast.

Source

California State Fair

The California State Fair in Sacramento may be smaller in scale compared to some of the other state fairs, with just around 500,000 visitors, but it still offers plenty of excitement and flavor. Known for its focus on local ingredients and innovative culinary creations, this fair features a food festival that showcases everything from traditional fair foods to gourmet offerings. In addition to the food, visitors can enjoy horse racing, and various food and drink competitions, including cheeses, wine, canning, and baking contests.

Some of the top food items at the California State Fair include Banana Pudding Cheesecake, Deep Fried Artichoke Hearts, and Maple Bacon Cinnamon Rolls. To bring a bit of California flair to your kitchen, try these yummy Oreo Crumble Banana Pudding Pies, which offer a fun and flavorful twist on a classic dessert. For a savory snack, these Spinach Artichoke Mini Bites are perfect. And for a sweet finish, whip up some Maple Bacon Breakfast Rolls that blend the perfect mix of salty and sweet, just like you’d find at the fair.

Source

State fairs are more than just a place to eat—they’re a celebration of local culture, a gathering of community, and a showcase of fun and creativity. Whether you’re enjoying the golden goodness of a deep-fried treat or savoring the sweet taste of a homemade cream puff, the state fairs offer something special that goes beyond the food itself. By trying out these recipes at home, you can bring a little bit of that magic to your own kitchen, creating your own state fair experience no matter where you are!