In late summer or early fall every year, the smell of kettle corn and funnel cakes drifts through the air, the Ferris wheel lights glow against the evening sky, and families gather for one of America’s most time-honored traditions — the state or county fair. While fairs are often seen as nostalgic fun for adults, they’re also an incredible experience for children, offering excitement, education, and memories that last a lifetime. I still remember being taken to the Rose Festival fair in Portland when I was a kid.

1. A Break from Screens and Routines

In an age where so much of life happens through a screen, the fair is refreshingly real. Kids get to interact with animals, play games, and enjoy rides that spark genuine laughter and movement. It’s a full-sensory experience that reminds families how much joy can come from being outdoors together.

2. Hands-On Learning Opportunities

Fairs are packed with educational exhibits disguised as fun. From livestock barns and petting zoos to science displays and agricultural demonstrations, children see firsthand where their food comes from, how crops grow, and the care it takes to raise animals. Many fairs even offer STEM and art exhibits where kids can explore, touch, and learn by doing. 

3. Building Confidence and Independence

Whether it’s entering a craft or baking contest, trying a new adrenaline pumping ride, or managing a few dollars at the midway games, the fair gives kids a chance to make decisions and test their independence in a safe, family-friendly setting. These small challenges can help build confidence and responsibility.

In the United States, county fairs can be traced back into the 1700’s. They originated as a business activity. They were a means to promote agricultural and industrial advances by providing the opportunity to display livestock, agricultural produce, and new technology.

County fairs evolved to become more than a business function. They grew into a tradition that brought communities together. These gatherings inspired competitions, and celebrations of local culture, music, food, agriculture, and creativity. These county fairs were and still are more than just events; they are vibrant gatherings where families can explore, learn, and enjoy a wide array of activities.

Local county fairs still preserve some of that community bonding and educational function. In the mid-1800’s, states got into the business of promoting and operating a “state fair”. This forever changed the dynamic of the fair experience.

State fairs were still the traditional place to showcase the “best of” a variety of categories that were grown, raised, or created in that state. But they added something more. By the late 1800’s they added on the entertainment feature.

Amusement rides, games, and food vendors became a prominent feature of the classic state fair.

This changed the attendance from a collection of primarily agricultural workers to also include “city folk”. Urban dwellers discovered a new “date night” activity and began to throng the midway to engage in the latest thrill rides and game attractions.