There’s nothing like the smell of kettle corn, the buzz of carnival games, and the thrill of a spinning ride to make you feel like a kid again.
How to Save Money at a County Fair
But as the fun adds up, so does the cost. If you’ve ever walked out of a county fair wondering where all your money went, you’re not alone. The good news? You don’t need a big budget to enjoy the fair. A little planning and a few smart habits can make a big difference.
Here’s how to make the most of your day without spending more than you planned.
Look for Discounts Before You Go
One of the easiest ways to save money is to plan ahead. Fair prices tend to be higher at the gate, especially if you’re buying everything last minute.
Buy Advance Tickets
Most fairs sell early bird tickets online. These are usually cheaper than gate prices and sometimes include perks like ride coupons or parking passes. Some fairs even partner with grocery stores or banks for promo codes.
Check for Special Discount Days
Many fairs offer reduced admission on certain days:
- Family Day: Kids get in free or discounted.
- Senior Day: Reduced rates for older adults.
- Military Discounts: Active-duty and veterans often receive free entry.
- Student Specials: Presenting a student ID might score you a cheaper pass.
Pack Smart and Skip Extra Purchases
You’d be surprised how much money goes toward small, avoidable things like bottled water or sunscreen.
Here’s a quick list of essentials to bring with you:
- Reusable water bottle (check if outside drinks are allowed)
- Sunscreen and hand wipes
- Portable charger
- Snacks for kids
- Compact umbrella or hat for shade
Packing your own bag ensures you’re not scrambling to buy $4 bottled water or overpriced hats from vendors.
Set a Food Budget (and Stick to It)
Food is one of the biggest temptations at a county fair. From foot-long corn dogs to deep-fried desserts, everything smells and looks amazing but the prices can be shocking.
Eat Before You Arrive
Having a meal at home helps you avoid showing up hungry and overspending right away. Bring light snacks like trail mix or crackers if outside food is allowed.
Share Fair Treats
Portions are often large, so split meals or snacks with your group. This way you can sample more without overspending.
Limit the Extras
Pick one or two fair-only splurges (like a funnel cake or lemonade), then stop there. Having a set food budget in cash can help you stay disciplined.
Use Ride Wristbands Instead of Individual Tickets
Ride tickets can burn a hole in your pocket quickly. If you or your kids plan to go on more than a few rides, buying an all-day wristband usually works out cheaper.
Tips for Ride Savings:
- Go early in the day to avoid long lines and get more value out of unlimited passes.
- Visit on preview night many fairs offer discounted ride tickets before the official opening.
- Check if rides are cheaper before 5 PM or during weekday hours.
- Prioritize must-do rides instead of trying everything.
Skip the Fair Games (Or Set a Limit)
Fair games look like easy fun but are often set up to be difficult to win. A few tries might be fun, but it’s easy to throw away $20 with nothing to show for it.
Treat It Like Entertainment
If you plan to play, think of it like a donation. Set a strict spending limit say $10 and don’t chase prizes.
Avoid Letting Kids Overspend
If your children are begging to play, let them choose just one game each and stick to a set budget. This avoids last-minute arguments and surprise expenses.
Be Selective with Souvenirs
It’s easy to fall for flashing toys, themed T-shirts, or glowing necklaces, especially at night. But souvenirs at the fair can be expensive and often poorly made.
Ways to Save on Souvenirs:
- Give each child a set amount of spending money before you arrive.
- Wait until the end of the day to buy many items lose their appeal after a few hours.
- Skip buying duplicates limit each person to one keepsake.
- Bring your own glow sticks or novelty items from the dollar store.
Enjoy the Free Attractions
Not everything at the fair comes with a price tag. In fact, some of the best moments are free.
Free Entertainment to Watch For:
- Live music from local bands
- Animal shows and petting zoos
- Pie-eating contests and dance-offs
- Magic shows, cultural performances, and stunt acts
- Community arts, crafts, and produce exhibits
Take a few minutes before you go to check the fair’s official schedule. You might find something fun to watch without spending a dime.
Carpool or Use Public Transportation
Parking can cost $10 to $25 at larger fairs, especially during prime hours. If possible, take public transit, rideshare, or carpool with friends.
Some county fairs offer shuttle buses from off-site lots that are free or cost much less than on-site parking. Look for park-and-ride options on the event’s website or local forums.
Family-Specific Tips to Make Every Dollar Count
Families often face the biggest hit when it comes to fair expenses. But a few small tweaks can stretch your budget a long way.
Smart Money Tips for Families:
- Use clear envelopes or small wallets to hand each child their budget for food and games.
- Visit during the day when ticket prices are lower and rides are less crowded.
- Plan group photos at designated fair booths instead of paying for printed ones.
- Bring a small cooler with water and sandwiches and eat picnic-style if outside food is allowed.
- Download the fair app (if available) for flash deals or coupons on-site.
Final Thoughts
A day at the county fair should leave you with lasting memories not an empty wallet. With a little planning, smart choices, and a few intentional trade-offs, you can enjoy all the color and charm the fair has to offer without going over budget.
Before you head out, make a checklist, plan your spending, and keep these tips handy. You’ll enjoy the same rides, food, and fun just with fewer regrets at the end of the day.
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