State fairs in America have a rich history dating back to the early 19th century. The first recognized state fair (today known as the Great New York State Fair) was held in 1841 in Syracuse, New York, aimed at promoting agriculture and livestock breeding. These events quickly gained popularity, showcasing local produce, crafts, and innovations.
Throughout the 1850s and 1860s, many states established their own fairs, often linked to agricultural societies. The fairs served as a platform for farmers to exhibit their best livestock, crops, and homemade goods, fostering community pride and competition.
By the late 19th century, state fairs evolved into major social events, featuring entertainment like carnival rides, games, and concerts. The introduction of technology, such as railroads, allowed for greater attendance and participation.
In the 20th century, state fairs continued to grow, becoming a staple of American culture. They began to include more diverse attractions, reflecting changing social norms and interests, while still emphasizing agriculture. Today, state fairs are celebrated for their food, rides, and cultural exhibits, remaining a beloved tradition that highlights local heritage and community spirit. Most state fairs take place during the months of August, September, and October.
Here is a list of the Top 10 state fairs in the USA (2023):
10. Great New York State Fair | Syracuse, NY | 932k visitors
9. Washington State Fair | Payallup, WA | 973k visitors
8. Ohio State Fair | Columbus, OH | 1 million visitors
7. Wisconsin State Fair | West Allis, WI | 1 million visitors
6. Tulsa State Fair | Tulsa, OK | 1.1 million visitors
5. Iowa State Fair | Des Moines, IA | 1.1 million visitors
4. The Big E, New England State Fair (also known as the Eastern States Exposition) | West Springfield, MA | 1.4 million visitors
3. Arizona State Fair | Phoenix, AZ | 1.4 million visitors
2. Minnesota State Fair | St. Paul, MN | 1.8 million visitors
1. State Fair of Texas | Dallas, TX | 2.3 million visitors
Source: Carnival Warehouse
Below we will explore the five largest state fairs in greater detail.
Iowa State Fair
The Iowa State Fair, held annually in Des Moines, has a long and storied history that began in 1854. Initially established to promote agriculture and showcase the state’s agricultural products, the first fair featured a modest selection of exhibits, livestock, and competitions.
By the late 19th century, the fair grew in size and scope, moving to its current location in 1886. The event became a key platform for Iowa farmers to exhibit their best livestock and crops, helping to establish the state as a leader in agriculture.
Over the years, the Iowa State Fair expanded to include a wide array of attractions, such as carnival rides, live music, and food vendors. Its famous butter cow sculpture, first introduced in 1911, has become an iconic symbol of the fair.
Today, the Iowa State Fair attracts over a million visitors each year, showcasing Iowa’s agricultural heritage while also offering entertainment, education, and community engagement. It’s known for its unique food offerings, competitive exhibits, and lively atmosphere, making it a cherished tradition for many Iowans and visitors alike.
Recent Food Highlights
The popular bacon cheeseburger from Winn & Sara’s Kitchen is a fusion between American and Asian-inspired cuisine. The delectable creation features a rich and flavorful blend of seasoned ground beef, cooked smoky bacon, pickles and cheese filling, all wrapped in a crispy golden brown pastry eggroll, and then drizzled with Winn and Sara’s house-made burger sauce.
Located at Whatcha Smokin? BBQ,the Iowa Sm’Oak’ed Roll is a pork tenderloin stuffed with jasmine rice, jalapeno creamed corn, smoked poblano queso and Giddy Up Texas taco sauce, and finished with poblano ranch, Giddy Up sauce, green onion and smoked sesame seeds.
Prepared with a full North American lobster tail and pulled through scratch-made batter seasoned with cayenne pepper and salt, the corn dog is hand-formed on a wooden skewer and lightly deep-fried to perfection. It’s finished with a lemon aioli drizzle and topped with paprika, herbs and 24-month-aged Parmigiano Reggiano.
Planning Your Trip To Des Moines, IA
The Big E
The Big E, officially known as the Eastern States Exposition, is an annual fair held in West Springfield, Massachusetts, and is one of the largest agricultural fairs in the Northeast. It was first established in 1916 to promote the agricultural, industrial, and cultural resources of the six New England states: Massachusetts, Connecticut, Rhode Island, New Hampshire, Vermont, and Maine.
The fair started as a regional agricultural showcase, featuring livestock, produce, and handicrafts. Over the years, it has expanded significantly, incorporating diverse attractions such as carnival rides, concerts, and a variety of food vendors.
One of the highlights of the Big E is the Avenue of States, where each New England state has its own pavilion showcasing local foods, crafts, and tourism information. The fair has also become known for its unique culinary offerings, including the famous Big E cream puff.
Today, the Big E draws over a million visitors each year, blending agricultural traditions with entertainment and community spirit, making it a beloved event in the region.
Recent Food Highlights
These giant cream puffs from The Big E Bakery are classic for a reason. Piled high with cream and topped with an optional chocolate ganache, they’re available at multiple locations across the fair.
This delicious burger is made up of a smashed burger patty, two strips of bacon, American cheese, and the most important part, two donuts being used as the bun.
Brought to you by Storrowton Tavern (Ave. of States), the combination of blackened chicken, Cajun mac and cheese, stuffed inside a bread bowl is a foodie’s dream.
Planning Your Trip To West Springfield, MA
Arizona State Fair
The Arizona State Fair has a rich history that dates back to 1884, making it one of the oldest state fairs in the western United States. Originally held in Tucson, the fair aimed to promote agriculture, livestock, and the region’s cultural heritage.
In 1905, the fair was moved to Phoenix, where it has remained ever since. The fairgrounds were established in the early 20th century, and the event began to grow in popularity, showcasing agricultural exhibits, livestock competitions, and local crafts.
Throughout the years, the Arizona State Fair expanded its offerings to include entertainment, carnival rides, and food vendors, reflecting the state’s diverse culture and community. The fair has become known for its unique attractions, such as the famous deep-fried foods and a variety of live performances.
Today, the Arizona State Fair attracts over one million visitors each year, celebrating the state’s agricultural roots while providing a platform for entertainment and community engagement. It remains a beloved tradition, highlighting the rich cultural tapestry of Arizona.
Recent Food Highlights
Smoked turkey legs are a flavorful treat, slow-cooked to perfection with a rich, smoky aroma that enhances their tender, juicy meat.
Planning Your Trip To Phoenix, AZ
Minnesota State Fair
The Minnesota State Fair, known as “The Great Minnesota Get-Together,” has a long and vibrant history that dates back to 1859. Originally held in various locations, the first official state fair took place in 1860 in Fort Snelling, with a focus on agriculture and showcasing local products.
In 1885, the fair moved to its current location in Falcon Heights, just outside Minneapolis. This new site allowed for expanded exhibits and attractions, and the fair quickly became a highlight of the state’s summer calendar. The Minnesota State Fair has grown significantly over the years, featuring livestock shows, agricultural competitions, and a wide array of exhibits highlighting Minnesota’s industries and communities.
The fair is also famous for its food, including unique offerings like cheese curds and the iconic pronto pup. Over time, it has incorporated entertainment such as concerts, rides, and cultural showcases, drawing millions of visitors each year.
Today, the Minnesota State Fair is one of the largest and most attended state fairs in the U.S., celebrated for its blend of agricultural tradition and modern attractions, embodying the spirit of Minnesota.
Recent Food Highlights
Fried buffalo-flavored cheese curds and chicken topped with blue cheese slaw, drizzled with buffalo sauce, and served in a fried flour shell.
Purple sticky rice grilled over an open flame until crunchy, then topped with choice of shredded Hmong beef jerky or pickled mushrooms.
Patata Frita kettle-flavored ice cream created by Minnesota Dairy Lab, sandwiched between focaccia bread from Wrecktangele. Topped with honey butter, kettle chips, and herbs.
Planning Your Trip To St. Paul, MN
State Fair of Texas
The State Fair of Texas, held annually in Dallas, has a rich history dating back to 1886. Initially established to promote agriculture and showcase Texas’s agricultural products, the fair was first held at a location near the banks of the Trinity River.
In 1904, the fair moved to its current site, Fair Park, which features a large exhibition hall and various attractions. The fair grew rapidly, becoming known for its large livestock shows, agricultural competitions, and the famous auto show, which began in 1905.
The fair is particularly renowned for its food, introducing iconic dishes like the corn dog and fried foods that continue to draw visitors. The fair also features a wide range of entertainment, including concerts, carnival rides, and cultural exhibits, celebrating Texas’s diverse heritage.
Today, the State Fair of Texas is one of the largest and most attended fairs in the country, attracting millions of visitors each year. It serves as a showcase for Texas agriculture, industry, and culture, embodying the spirit of the Lone Star State.
Recent Food Highlights
Buttery biscuit, loaded with shredded brisket, corn queso, bacon, and Texas honey.
Fritura cheese and Dominican salami corn dog that’s split open and topped with garlic plantain chips, cilantro, and a special sauce.
Planning Your Trip To Dallas, Texas
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