The Funniest and Strangest County Fair Contests

Ever watched someone yell their husband's name at the top of their lungs for a trophy? Or sculpt a masterpiece out of Spam? At county fairs across the country, these kinds of offbeat competitions are more common than you’d think. Strange? Definitely. Entertaining? Without a doubt. These events add a splash of unpredictability to the fairgrounds and keep crowds coming back for more. Funniest and Strangest County Fair Contests to Watch While most folks show up for funnel cakes and carnival rides, it's often these strange contests that leave the biggest impression. Let’s dive into some of the wildest, funniest, and downright odd competitions that make county fairs unforgettable. Why These Quirky Contests Matter You might wonder what inspires people to spend time crafting meat sculptures or training roosters to crow on command. At the heart of it, these contests are more than just sideshow entertainment they bring people together, spark creativity, and carry forward decades-old traditions. County fairs are about celebrating local culture, and that includes its quirks. These contests give everyday folks a chance to shine in unexpected ways, often with nothing more than humor and heart. 10 Hilariously Strange County Fair Contests Worth Knowing Here’s a closer look at the contests that break the mold and make us laugh out loud. 1. The Husband Calling Contest This contest, made famous by the Iowa State Fair, is exactly what it sounds like. Women call out for their husbands sometimes lovingly, sometimes in frustration in front of a cheering crowd. Loudness and creativity count Bonus points for dramatic delivery Phrases like “Bobbbbbbb, get over here!” fill the air It's not just a competition it’s a comedic performance, and the crowd eats it up every time. 2. Cow Chip Throwing Only in farm country would people gather to toss dried cow dung as far as they can. Known as “cow chips,” these discs of manure are surprisingly aerodynamic. Longest throw wins Gloves optional, but encouraged Events often include costume categories too Odd as it may sound, it’s been a staple in parts of Oklahoma and Kansas for decades. 3. Spam Sculpting Forget clay or marble contestants use canned Spam to carve out their creations. Tools may include toothpicks, plastic knives, and a healthy sense of humor. Popular designs: castles, animals, or pop culture references Judged on creativity and structure Cleanup is part of the challenge It’s salty, squishy, and somehow still wildly entertaining. 4. Beard and Moustache Contest Facial hair is serious business at many fairs. These [...]