After a three-year hiatus, it was time to again to tackle the Arkansas state fair. The idea of joining over 450,000 people hasn’t sounded that appealing, until this year. It also didn’t hurt that The Daily Record provided two free fair passes and a $5 free parking ticket. It was nice to save a little money, because we found out how easily it is to spend $100 in a four-hour period.
That included $40 on tickets for rides and some adult beverages, but it was difficult to find a fried snack for under $6. Right after we entered the gates, Parish darted to the fried Oreo cart and ordered a batch. I noshed on these little bites of goodness during my first visit to the fair. I was excited to sink my teeth into them again – they did not disappoint. I skipped the fried dough and fried Twinkie booth, because I want my heart to keep pumping a few more decades. I heard that someone was selling fried watermelon, but I never found it.
I think the vendors make most of their sales based on curiosity. Parish, who skipped lunch, knowing he would give into the fried aroma, enjoyed a smorgasbord of fair delights. He found a place that served wings and fries for $10. He thought this was a steal compared to the snacks that cost almost that much. In the Hall of Industry, we bought a piece of sour watermelon candy for $4. At that point, we were numb to the exorbitant prices of everything so we bought an 18-inch candy rope and promptly left the Hall. The chewy piece of candy was so good, I ended up eating most of it before Parish had the chance. Clearly, no one went hungry during our time at the fairgrounds. I’m hoping our walks between the glimpses of gluttony balanced everything out.
It was perfect a day for the fair; the sun was shining, there was no humidity and zero chance of rain. We went on some rides, including the classic tilt-a-whirl and one called Musik Express that basically went around in a big circle and smashed the person on the outside (Parish). I laughed until I my sides were burning. I get motion sickness easily, so I usually try to stay off the rides were you go upside down or round and round and round.
This was also the first year we tried our luck at some of the games operated by carnies. Parish spent about $15 on a basketball shooting game before he finally gave up. He played basketball in high school and college (on a full scholarship) but couldn’t win an over-sized, stuffed purple dog for me. After spending almost $10 on a water gun shooting game, we did win a small prize, but we gave it to the 2-year-old we beat. I had a hoot playing games, eating food and people watching.
We also roamed through the livestock buildings and saw some huge bulls and a very cute calf. There is something about attending a fair that makes you feel real American. Maybe it’s the cotton candy or 12-inch corn dogs, but the mood in the air is pure and enticing. As we walked hand in hand through the crowds of people, Parish looked at me and said, “Make sure to get tickets for next year.” It will be hard to duplicate the fun we had, but I’m willing to give it another chance.