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Must-See Attractions at a County Fair

The moment you step onto the fairgrounds, a mix of sights, sounds, and aromas pulls you in. The flashing lights of carnival rides, the laughter of families, and the scent of fried treats create an atmosphere filled with excitement. Whether it’s the thrill of fast-paced rides, the joy of tasting classic fair food, or the simple pleasure of watching a pig race, every fair offers something memorable. Must-See Attractions at a County Fair A county fair isn’t just another event. it’s a celebration of community, tradition, and fun. Whether you’re attending with family, friends, or even on your own, knowing what to expect can help you make the most of your experience. From heart-racing attractions to delicious snacks and one-of-a-kind entertainment, here’s a guide to the must-see attractions you shouldn’t miss. 1. Thrilling Carnival Rides That You Can’t Miss The carnival rides are often the most eye-catching part of any fair. Bright lights, pulsing music, and the screams of excited riders set the stage for an adrenaline-filled adventure. Classic Fair Rides: Ferris Wheel: A timeless ride that offers stunning views of the fairgrounds, especially breathtaking at night. Carousel: With hand-painted horses and charming music, this ride is perfect for both kids and those who enjoy a touch of nostalgia. Tilt-a-Whirl: A spinning, unpredictable ride that leaves riders laughing and dizzy. Drop Tower: Feel your stomach lurch as you experience the sensation of free-falling from the top. High-Speed and Extreme Thrill Rides: For those who love the rush of high speeds and unexpected twists, these rides are worth a try: Roller Coasters: Some fairs bring portable roller coasters that, despite their size, deliver big thrills. Zipper: A ride that combines flipping and spinning for a chaotic, heart-racing experience. Swing Rides: While it may seem gentle at first, some versions of these rides lift you high into the air and spin you at fast speeds. Whether you’re seeking a laid-back experience or a full-throttle adrenaline rush, the fair offers a variety of rides to match your excitement level. 2. The Irresistible World of Fair Food Fair food isn’t just about eating—it’s an experience in itself. From sweet treats to savory delights, the fairgrounds are home to some of the most unique and indulgent dishes you’ll find anywhere. Fairground Favorites: Corn Dogs: Crispy, golden, and perfect for eating on the go. Funnel Cake: A deep-fried, sugary masterpiece that’s an absolute staple. Cotton Candy: Light, fluffy, and a must-have for kids and adults alike. More Adventurous Options: Deep-Fried Everything: Oreos, Twinkies, [...]

By |2025-03-13T13:33:04+00:00March 13th, 2025|County Fair, Event, Fair, Festivals|0 Comments
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Thrill Rides vs. Classic Rides: The Best Amusements

Amusement parks have long been a favorite destination for families, friends, and thrill-seekers alike. Whether you're drawn to the heart-pounding intensity of high-speed coasters or the timeless charm of a Ferris wheel, there’s something for everyone. Thrill Rides vs Classic Rides: The Best Amusements But which type of ride offers the best amusement experience? Are high-adrenaline attractions truly superior to the nostalgia of classic rides, or does each hold its own special appeal? This guide explores the defining features of thrill rides and classic rides, their appeal to different audiences, and the factors that make each type a must-try experience. What Are Thrill Rides? Thrill rides are designed to push limits, providing an intense rush that keeps adrenaline junkies coming back for more. These attractions often involve high speeds, sudden drops, loops, and unexpected twists that leave riders breathless. Key Characteristics of Thrill Rides Speed and Intensity – Many thrill rides, especially roller coasters, reach speeds of 60 mph or more. Height and Drops – Towering structures with dramatic plunges add to the excitement. Loops and Inversions – Many modern coasters feature upside-down elements that defy gravity. Surprise Elements – Sudden accelerations, dark tunnels, and unexpected twists keep riders on edge. Popular Types of Thrill Rides Roller Coasters – From wooden coasters to hypercoasters, these are the ultimate test of courage. Drop Towers – Riders experience freefall from towering heights, creating a weightless sensation. Inverted Rides – Suspended coasters flip riders upside-down for an exhilarating perspective. Swing Rides – Giant pendulum attractions that reach extreme angles, providing both height and speed. The Timeless Appeal of Classic Rides Classic rides may not be the fastest or most intense, but they offer an experience rooted in nostalgia and tradition. These attractions have been around for generations, providing a sense of wonder and joy for visitors of all ages. Key Characteristics of Classic Rides Family-Friendly Appeal – Most classic rides are suitable for all ages, making them ideal for families with young children. Relaxed Experience – Unlike thrill rides, these attractions focus on scenery and comfort rather than heart-stopping excitement. Historic Significance – Many classic rides date back decades and are still beloved today. Popular Types of Classic Rides Ferris Wheels – Iconic for their breathtaking views and gentle rotations. Carousels – A staple at most parks, featuring beautifully designed horses and nostalgic music. Bumper Cars – Fun and interactive, allowing guests to engage in friendly competition. Swing Carousels – A mix of gentle movement and scenic enjoyment, perfect for [...]

By |2025-03-13T13:27:33+00:00March 13th, 2025|County Fair, Fair, Festivals|0 Comments
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Best Times to Visit the County Fair for Fewer Crowds

There’s nothing quite like the excitement of a local fair—the smell of fried food, the flashing lights of carnival rides, and the thrill of winning a prize at a game booth. These events bring together families, friends, and visitors looking for a fun-filled day. But as much as fairs offer an unforgettable experience, they can also get overwhelmingly crowded, making it difficult to enjoy the attractions without long waits and packed walkways. What Are the Best Times to Visit the County Fair? If you’ve ever found yourself stuck in a sea of people, struggling to move from one ride to the next, you know how frustrating it can be. The good news is that with a little planning, you can avoid the busiest hours and make the most of your visit. Whether you prefer a quiet morning stroll through the exhibits or an evening filled with carnival games, this guide will help you choose the best times to go for a more relaxed experience. County Fair Crowd Patterns Certain factors play a significant role in how busy a fair gets. Some days and times naturally attract more visitors than others. Before selecting a date, it helps to consider a few key elements that influence crowd sizes. Weekends tend to be the busiest times, as more people are available to attend. Fridays and Saturdays, in particular, see the highest attendance, while Sundays may slow down slightly toward the evening. Holidays and special event days can significantly impact fair traffic. Fireworks nights, live concerts, and promotional days often bring in larger crowds. Checking the fair schedule in advance can help you avoid these peak times. Weather conditions also play a role. Pleasant, sunny days attract more visitors, while extreme heat or light rain can discourage attendance. School schedules make a noticeable difference as well. If the fair is held during the school year, weekdays are much quieter. However, if it takes place during summer break, crowd levels can remain high throughout the week. Best Days to Visit the County Fair Weekdays are generally the best time to visit for a calmer experience. Tuesday through Thursday tends to have the least foot traffic, making it easier to explore attractions without long waits. Many families and working professionals opt for weekend visits, so going during the week provides a more peaceful atmosphere. The first and last days of the fair can also be strategic times to visit. The opening day may have a steady stream of visitors, but it usually isn’t [...]

By |2025-03-13T13:15:20+00:00March 13th, 2025|Festivals|0 Comments
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The Bubble Tower:A Unique Attraction at the Unicorn Festival

Unicorn Festival June 2023, Littleton - Colorado. These images show kids chasing and loving the bubbles. The solar powered Bubble Tower can be found at BubbleTower.com and find information about the Unicorn Festival on their website. CoolKay has interviewed the Unicorn Festival before - you can listen to it here - our interview from June 2022 it is a yearly Festival in Littleton, Colorado held in June. Bubble Tower on a Facebook page It has also has a Facebook page and there are a lot of images and information on the page.

By |2024-01-15T10:47:14+00:00June 14th, 2023|Unicorn Festival, Bubble Tower, Children, Littleton|0 Comments
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The Unicorn Festival 2022

This is an interview with Dana Cain, producer of the Unicorn Festival in Littleton, Colorado (at Clement Park). Its a great event for children and their parents. This year the festival is June 10-11th, 2023 - Check out their website. Come see the unicorns! Craft Vendors and food at the Unicorn Festival! - They also have stage entertainment too. JUNE 10-11, 2023 IN CLEMENT PARK, LITTLETON! Spend a beautiful weekend in a magical world! Ongoing entertainment and activities all day long Hours Sat. & Sun.: 10:00 am - 5:00 pm Multiple Unicorn Corrals for photo opps! More Unicorns than ever before! NEW: Fairyland! Meet sooo many fairies! 66-ft Dragon Slide Obstacle Course! NEW: Meet April Showers, founder of Afro Unicorn! Castle Obstacle course and 20-ft slide! Mermaid Lagoon full of mermaids! Storytime Cottage with Authors and fun stories! - ALL INCLUDED WITH ADMISSION TICKET! GET TICKETS AT THE GATE! ​$25 Admission  - All Weekend! FREE - Kids 2 and younger $79 - Family 4-Pack $15 - Military /1st Responders (Police, Fire, Paramedics) Tickets are good for any time, both days! LISTEN to the podcast... with Dana Cain , that was done on June 2022

By |2023-09-29T17:45:41+00:00June 10th, 2019|Littleton, Unicorn Festival|0 Comments
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7 Rock & Roll Festivals that Changed History (For Better or Worse)

7 Rock & Roll Festivals, - or Hooligans causing a ruckus. That’s modern music in a nutshell, right? Don’t be so quick to judge! After all, you may have been one of those hooligans. Today we are reviewing 7 Rock & Roll festivals that altered public perception figuratively and literally. But first, we need to look at Rock’s roots. Beatles or Stones notwithstanding, Rock & Roll has a uniquely American flavor. March 21st, 1952: The Moondog Coronation Ball Where: Cleveland, Ohio What went right: Walk down a music store aisle 65 years earlier and you’d notice records sorted by ethnicity. One man decided music was colorblind. Sportscaster Sportscaster Alan Freed liked this Rhythm & Blues thing. And, despite being marketed towards African-Americans, young Americans did too. Record store owner, Leo Mintz, exclaimed to Freed, “Kids are rockin’ and rollin’ in the aisles to these records, but they won’t buy them!” Freed would bring R&B to the masses. Freed changed gears and became “King of Moondoggers” for WJW radio. His late-night program broadcast artists of all backgrounds to all Americans. Having cornered the market, Freed’s next move would be to host “the most terrible ball of them all.”  The Moondog Coronation Ball at 3717 Euclid Avenue is America’s first Rock & Roll concert. Though pre-Civil Rights Movement, Freed’s audience was multi-racial. African-American patrons were elated to discover that their champion was white. What went wrong: Moondog’s Coronation Ball promised an eclectic lineup. It never made it past the first song. No one could have anticipated the turnout. 20,000 attendees spilled in to the 10,000 capacity Cleveland Arena. Unbeknownst to ticket holders, Freed arranged follow-up dates. A printing error omitted this detail. Counterfeiting contributed to the exaggerated attendance. Irate attendees broke the central glass panel. A riot erupted and law officials broke up the concert. July 25th, 1965: Newport Folk Festival Where: Newport, Rhode Island What went right: Bob Dylan owes his career to the Newport Folk Festival. It was the first venue he achieved national recognition. His second performance marked a public transition from acoustic to electric. What went wrong: It’s understandable that Dylan’s audience felt they held stake in his career and image. The organizer, according to roadie Jonathon Taplin, discouraged electric sound. Dylan opened with electric version of Maggie’s Farm. Boos immediately erupted from the crowd. Dylan and company left the stage after the booing made their sound inaudible. He would not play at the festival for 37 years. [...]

By |2023-07-26T20:31:33+00:00June 30th, 2016|Festivals, Music, Rock|0 Comments
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9 Steps to the PERFECT Music Festival

32 million people attend music festivals each year.  Are you interested in hosting the PERFECT Music Festival? Is yours on their radar? Hosting the perfect music festival is not easy. Talent aside, there are monetary, zoning, and scheduling considerations. County Fair USA breaks down what makes the best festivals tick. Follow each step for an event that can't be beat! Step 1) Fund your music festival Firefly Music Festival in Delaware is nothing less than an underdog success story. Their festival raised $1 million within 24 hours of launch. Yes, 24 hours plus 5 years of planning. You've got an idea, but what's your pitch? A music festival is a pipe dream without money. A sad fact is that profit is the only reason suits would take a shot on an eager upstart. Bootstrapping will be your primary option until the festival inevitably scales up (Am I being presumptuous? Of course!). Firefly built expertise hosting smaller, niche events. Investors won't take a shot on festivals that aim too high. If you're more an 'ideas kind of guy/gal', hire someone that has been down this road. Crowdfunding websites like Kickstarter and GoFundMe let amateurs test the waters. Hell, even experienced planners use crowdfunding to quickly build capital. The premise is simple: Pitch your festival online. People from all over the world can back your project. If there is demand, it will reach appropriate funding before a deadline. Combine crowdfunding with social media for maximum exposure. Facebook Pages are mandatory! Younger attendees prefer to keep friends in the loop on Facebook and Twitter. Proposition other event managers in your niche. Most local establishments are keen to help entrepreneurs because this opens a cross-promotional avenue. Don't be discouraged if your project fails to garner adequate backing. Even festivals boasting world-famous headliners flop. Rock band 'My Bloody Valentine' agreed to headline Hop Farm Music Festival in Kent, England. A hostile economic climate killed its momentum. There could be a number of reasons for an initial failure. Pinpoint costs down to the last toilet paper roll and be prepared to recalculate your budget several times. Don't be surprised to break even your first time 'round. Potential backers desire some semblance of structure. Work through the remaining steps on our list before making your pitch. Step 2) Insure your music festival You name it, someone's insured it. So why not music festivals? Festivals are a profit-making enterprise like any brick-and-mortar business. City/town officials will regard it as such. Suppose an errant cigarette burns [...]

By |2024-01-12T14:12:37+00:00May 9th, 2016|Festivals, Food, Music, Rock|0 Comments
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Cinco de Mayo, means freedom

Cinco de Mayo,  Grito de Dolores honors Mexican independence. Cinco de Mayo proves she deserves it. Yet Mexico’s future was uncertain concurrent the American Civil War. In 1861, France peered across the Atlantic and saw a distraction. Hitherto, Mexico owed several backers large interest sums. France would make her pay by force! But there was an ulterior motive. A Tale of Two Presidents President Lincoln understood that a Mexican alliance was pivotal to Union victory. Mexico’s President Benito Juarez was happy to oblige – European puppet governments were legitimate concerns. United States policy discouraged European nations from intervening. Conversely, France’s Emperor Napoleon III would profit from Confederate victory. Union occupation halted French trade. Without Union policy holding them back, France was free to engage Mexico. A True Underdog Story And it did, despite standing policy. Lincoln’s Union was pre-occupied and could not intervene. French military covered Mexico like a plague. There were two French soldiers for every one Mexican! Mexico City was destined to fall, but not before one of the biggest upsets in military history. On May 5th, under General Zaragoza’s command, Mexico’s army repelled France at ‘Puebla’. Word travelled internationally. The improbable victory emboldened Mexican’s home and abroad. The Fight for Freedom Continued resistance made France’s endeavour fruitless. America, eventually reunited, pressured France into relinquishing control. Napoleon III’s puppet emperor was executed and President Juarez returned to power. Cinco de Mayo (“Five of May”) remembers Mexico’s struggle and acknowledges her spirit. Celebrating at the Turn of the Century Cinco de Mayo enjoyed renewed American interest following the 1960’s. Today, Cinco de Mayo ceremonies are held in every state. In fact, General Zaragoza’s birthplace, Goliad, Texas, is the official celebration location. Puebla, however, still boasts being Cinco de Mayo’s largest celebratory location. Participants re-enact the conflict between Mexican and French soldiers. (We hate to ruin a surprise, but Mexico always wins.) Food, song, and dance proceed. Color floats and piñatas adorn Puebla’s streets. Adult and child alike scarf down plate after plate of Mole Poblano. Ingredients like chili pepper and chocolate make a unique juxtaposition for your palate. Tequila is, naturally, imbibed liberally. In recent years, focus has been placed on international music plus traditional Mexican artists. United we Stand Benito Juarez remarked that Mexico would be wise to imitate her neighbour’s democratic principles. Lincoln and Juarez had mutual affection, despite never meeting. Cinco de Mayo reminds all nations that freedom is worth striving for.

By |2019-03-15T02:28:57+00:00April 29th, 2016|Festivals, Cinco de Mayo, Holidays|0 Comments
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