Back in Time Today
County fairs have always been a place for fun, excitement, and, most importantly, amazing food. In the ‘60s and ‘70s, before deep-fried everything took over, fair food was a mix of classic American comfort foods, carnival treats, and regional specialties.
Many of these nostalgic flavors still bring back memories of warm summer days, Ferris wheels, and prize-winning livestock. Let’s take a trip back in time to explore the best foods from county fairs in the ‘60s and ‘70s.
1. Corn Dogs
Corn dogs were a true fair classic, offering the perfect handheld snack experience. Juicy hot dogs were dipped in a slightly sweet cornmeal batter and deep-fried to golden perfection. The appeal of corn dogs lay in their simplicity and deliciousness.
Served on a stick, they were easy to carry while strolling through the fairgrounds. The crispy outer layer contrasted beautifully with the tender hot dog inside. These were often enjoyed with a side of mustard or ketchup, adding a burst of flavor. Corn dogs continue to be a nostalgic favorite at fairs today.
2. Cotton Candy
Cotton candy was a county fair staple, mesmerizing and delighting both young and old. Spun sugar transformed into fluffy clouds of sweetness right before your eyes. The pastel colors of pink and blue added to the visual treat.
Watching the sugar spin and accumulate on the stick was half the fun. The light, airy texture melted in your mouth, leaving behind a sugary bliss. Cotton candy stands were often surrounded by eager children, their faces lit up with joy. This treat remains a beloved symbol of fairground magic.
3. Funnel Cakes
Funnel cakes were a delightful indulgence, long before the era of deep-fried everything. This crispy, golden treat was made by pouring batter through a funnel into hot oil, creating a lacy pattern. Once fried to perfection, it was generously dusted with powdered sugar.
The combination of crispy texture and sweet flavor made it irresistible. Funnel cakes were enjoyed by sharing with friends or savoring alone. They were a testament to the creativity and simplicity of fair cuisine. Today, they evoke nostalgia for simpler times at the county fair.
4. Caramel Apples
Caramel apples were the perfect blend of tart and sweet, offering a unique fairground experience. Crisp apples were coated in a sticky, sweet caramel layer, creating a delightful contrast of flavors.
Often rolled in nuts or sprinkles, they added an extra crunch. Eating a caramel apple was a fun challenge, as you navigated the sticky coating to reach the juicy fruit inside. These treats were both a visual and culinary delight at county fairs. Caramel apples remain a nostalgic favorite, reminding us of carefree days at the fair.
5. Homemade Lemonade
Homemade lemonade stands were a refreshing oasis at county fairs, offering a sweet escape from the summer heat. Vendors squeezed fresh lemons on-site, combining the juice with plenty of sugar and ice.
The result was a tart yet sweet beverage that quenched thirst instantly. Served in large cups, homemade lemonade was both a treat and a necessity for fairgoers. The simple yet delightful taste brought smiles to many faces. This classic drink remains a staple at fairs, celebrating tradition with every sip.
6. Snow Cones
Snow cones were the perfect cooling treat for hot summer days at the fair. Made with crushed ice drenched in brightly colored syrups, snow cones offered a burst of refreshing flavor. Flavors ranged from blue raspberry to classic cherry, each one a delightful surprise.
Children lined up at snow cone stands, eager to choose their favorite colors and flavors. The icy texture and sweet syrup created a playful eating experience, leaving tongues tinted in vibrant hues. Snow cones remain a fun and festive treat at fairs.
7. Turkey Legs
Turkey legs offered a medieval feast in the palm of your hand, a county fair classic. These giant legs were slow-cooked to achieve a smoky, tender flavor. The sight of fairgoers gnawing on these massive pieces of meat was a common one.
Turkey legs were both a meal and a spectacle, satisfying hearty appetites. The rich, savory taste made them a favorite among all ages. Even before Renaissance fairs popularized them, turkey legs were a staple at county fairs, celebrated for their bold flavor and fun presentation.
8. Hot Buttered Corn on the Cob
Hot buttered corn on the cob was a simple yet delicious fair food loved by many. Freshly grilled, each ear was slathered in melted butter and sprinkled with salt. The sweet corn kernels burst with flavor in every bite.
Eating corn on the cob was a messy, fun experience, often leaving buttered fingers and satisfied smiles. This classic treat was a staple at fairs, offering a taste of summer. The combination of simplicity and taste has kept it a beloved choice at fairs through the decades.
9. Elephant Ears
Elephant ears were massive, flaky pastries that captured the hearts of fairgoers. Fried to golden perfection, they were coated in a generous layer of cinnamon and sugar. Their size and flavor made them an irresistible treat.
Fairgoers often shared them with friends and family, making them a communal delight. The delicate, crispy texture combined with the sweet coating created a unique eating experience. Elephant ears were a must-have for those seeking both flavor and fun at the fair. They continue to evoke fond memories of county fairs.
10. Sausage and Peppers
Sausage and peppers offered bold, savory flavors that were a highlight at county fairs. Grilled Italian sausages were served with sautéed onions and peppers in a soft bun. The combination of spices, smoky sausage, and sweet peppers created a harmonious blend.
This hearty meal was perfect for satisfying hunger while exploring the fairgrounds. The aroma of grilling sausages wafted through the air, drawing in eager fairgoers. Sausage and peppers remain a beloved fair food, cherished for their robust taste and satisfying nature.
11. Homemade Pies
Homemade pies were a highlight at county fairs, with competitions showcasing the best of local baking talent. Stalls offered slices of apple, cherry, and pecan pies, each crafted with love and skill. The flaky crust and flavorful fillings created a perfect harmony that delighted taste buds.
Bakers took pride in their creations, often using family recipes passed down through generations. Fairgoers savored each slice, celebrating the tradition of homemade goodness. Pies continue to be a cherished part of the fair experience, bringing warmth and nostalgia to all.
12. Fresh Taffy Pulls
Fresh taffy pulls were a mesmerizing sight at county fairs. Saltwater taffy was often made on-site, with machines stretching and twisting the candy into long strands. The vivid colors and unique texture made it a visual and edible delight.
Vendors wrapped the taffy in wax paper, offering sweet samples to eager fairgoers. The soft, chewy candy was available in a variety of flavors, each one a treat for the taste buds. Taffy pulls remain a beloved tradition, capturing the imagination and taste of fair attendees.
13. Soft Pretzels
Soft pretzels were a warm, salty delight that were perfect for munching while exploring the fairgrounds. Twisted into classic shapes, they were baked to golden perfection. Served with mustard, each bite was a combination of chewy texture and savory flavor.
Pretzel stands were a popular gathering spot, with the aroma of freshly baked bread enticing passersby. These treats offered a simple yet satisfying snack experience. Soft pretzels remain a fair staple, cherished for their comforting taste and versatility.
14. Roast Beef Sandwiches
Roast beef sandwiches offered a hearty, comforting meal option at the fair. Slow-roasted beef, thinly sliced, was served on a bun with au jus or horseradish sauce. The rich, savory flavor and tender texture made these sandwiches a favorite among fairgoers seeking a substantial meal.
The sandwich stalls were always bustling, with patrons eager to enjoy this classic dish. Roast beef sandwiches continue to be a popular choice at fairs, celebrated for their satisfying taste and nostalgic appeal.
15. Homemade Ice Cream
Homemade ice cream at county fairs was a delightful, creamy treat that brought smiles to faces. Before pre-packaged ice cream trucks, fairs featured hand-cranked ice cream, made fresh and served in scoops or cones.
The rich, smooth texture and variety of flavors made it a beloved choice. Fairgoers cherished the opportunity to enjoy this homemade goodness, often savoring it with friends and family. The tradition of homemade ice cream continues to evoke warm memories of county fairs, celebrating the joy of simple pleasures.
16. Apple Cider and Donuts
In the fall fair season, apple cider and donuts were a match made in heaven. Warm, spiced apple cider paired perfectly with fresh, cinnamon-sugar-dusted donuts. This comforting combination offered a taste of autumn, celebrating the bounty of the season.
Fairgoers enjoyed sipping cider while strolling through the vibrant fairgrounds. The sweet, spiced aroma filled the air, creating a cozy atmosphere. Apple cider and donuts remain a cherished fall tradition, bringing warmth and flavor to the fair experience.
17. Deep-Fried Chicken
Before the era of fried Oreos, county fairs were known for good old-fashioned deep-fried chicken. Crispy, golden, and full of flavor, this classic dish was a crowd pleaser. Fairgoers enjoyed the rich, savory taste of perfectly fried chicken, often accompanied by sides like coleslaw.
The crispy crust and tender meat made it an irresistible choice. Fried chicken continues to be a staple at fairs, celebrated for its timeless appeal and delicious taste.
18. Chili and Cornbread
Chili and cornbread offered a hearty, flavorful combination that was a staple at county fairs. Served in large bowls, this dish was perfect for satisfying hunger on cooler fair days. The bold spices in the chili paired beautifully with the sweet, crumbly cornbread. Regional variations showcased different flavors, adding to the diversity of fair cuisine.
Fairgoers gathered around picnic tables to enjoy this comforting meal, sharing stories and laughter. Chili and cornbread remain a beloved part of the fair experience, celebrating the joy of good food and good company.