August is fair season—There’s still time to make lasting family memories this summer.
Do you remember going to a summer fair as a kid? Craning your neck to see the top of the Ferris wheel. Licking mini-donut sugar off your fingers. Longing for one of those 6-foot-tall stuffed bears. Fair memories are sticky like cotton candy. As adults, we have the opportunity to relive the excitement of seeing the biggest pumpkin through a child’s eyes. Fairs are the perfect end-of-summer family trip for kids of all ages.
Last-minute family travel doesn’t get much easier than the fair—there’s no need to research attractions or plan-out activities. Twenty-three states have state fairs taking place sometime in August. And with thousands of county fairs, there’s probably a fair near you. It’s fair time—let’s make some memories!
Here are a few tips to help you make the most of your summer fair day.
Moving through a fair with little ones
The right baby gear can help simplify your fair day. If you’re hitting the fair with an infant, consider strapping on a baby carrier. When baby gets tired or overstimulated, they can sit facing you. This position is calming and secure for baby. If you’re new to babywearing, a local Babywearing International chapter can help you find a carrier that works for you. Many chapters operate carrier lending libraries, which allow you to try-before-you-buy. When you travel with baby, you can rent a carrier from a BabyQuip Quality Provider.
For toddlers and their tiny, tired feet, strollers are a fair must-have. As a bonus, a full-feature stroller doubles as a gear hauler! Keep your camera and water handy in the stroller caddy and stash your diaper bag and cotton candy leftovers in the underneath storage compartment. Stroller rentals are available at some fairs, but inventory can be limited. BabyQuip Quality Providers can help outfit your fair day with a variety of stroller options.
Fair fuel for families
When you think of fair food, what comes to mind? Corn dogs. Deep-fried cheese curds. Funnel cakes. We’ve seen the food options at fairs grow in recent years to include items like green salad bowls and fresh smoothies—but it’s definitely not the norm! If you’re concerned about finding something for your little one to eat—that they want to eat too—then pack a lunch. Most fairs allow carry-in food and water. Looking for inspiration? These toddler lunches don’t require any reheating!
Kid-approved fair activities
Since you won’t likely be pulling a 12-hour marathon day at the fair with little ones, we suggest prioritizing your time with kid-approved activities. Be sure to check out your fair’s unique offerings and see what local families recommend by doing a search online. Coast-to-coast, here are three of our favorite fair sights and experiences for little ones:
- Carousel rides—A timeless favorite. There’s just something about going up and down and round and round on a brightly painted horse that brings out big grins and giggles.
- Animal exhibits and petting zoos—Kids love to get up close to the same animals that Old MacDonald has on his farm.
- Fire trucks, tractors and machinery—The chrome bumpers, bright paint and driver’s seat photo opportunities please little ones of all ages.
