State fairs are a quintessential American tradition—a chance to revel in local culture, food, art, and entertainment. From enormous pumpkins to gravity-defying rides, these sprawling celebrations have something for everyone. Which fairs offer the best blend of thrill, taste, and homegrown charm? An expert panel nominated their top picks, and readers have voted to award the blue ribbons. Here’s your guide to the 10 best state fairs across the country.

#10 Ohio State Fair

The Ohio State Fair, held in Columbus, attracts nearly a million attendees over its 12-day run. Featuring unique attractions like a Lego train, camel rides, an enormous tic-tac-toe game, and a tattoo competition, the fair is also home to one of the world's longest portable sky rides. Food enthusiasts can savor a variety of food on a stick amid a festive atmosphere.

This historic fair began in 1850 and has evolved from a humble event on 10 acres of grass with cattle tied to railings to a grand celebration of community and culture.

#9 Washington State Fair

The Washington State Fair in Puyallup is the largest single annual event in the state, drawing over a million visitors. The fair occurs twice a year, in fall and spring. The fall event spans over two weeks, showcasing food, entertainment, rides, produce competitions, wine-making, and other exhibits.

#8 Florida State Fair

Tampa hosts the Florida State Fair every February. This vibrant fair mixes agriculture, art, and entertainment, offering thrill rides, livestock competitions, cooking demos, and a midway with outrageous fair food. Culinary creations like deep-fried strawberry shortcake are highlights alongside concerts, circus acts, and Florida-themed exhibits celebrating the state's culture and history.

#7 Alaska State Fair

Located in Palmer, the Alaska State Fair features record-setting massive vegetables, stunning mountain views, colorful flower gardens, and unique Alaskan culture. Visitors can enjoy rides, horse shows, carnival games, live performances, and a wide variety of food and non-food vendors. The fair began in 1936 and takes place 45 minutes north of Anchorage.

#6 Indiana State Fair

The Indiana State Fair in Indianapolis has been a Midwest tradition for over 160 years. Highlighting Hoosier traditions and innovative experiences, the fair offers nationally recognized concerts, award-winning food, hands-on exhibits, and one of the largest midways in the country. Themes like the "Soundtrack of Summer" showcase Indiana’s best in farming, food, entertainment, and fun.

#5 South Carolina State Fair

Each October, the South Carolina State Fair lights up Columbia with rides, food, and family-friendly fun. With roller coasters, petting zoos, art exhibits, and livestock shows, the fair also offers unique food items like fried cookie dough and turkey legs. Live music, games, and creative competitions highlight local talent and agricultural pride.

#4 State Fair of Texas

The State Fair of Texas in Dallas is renowned for doing it big, drawing millions each autumn. Visitors enjoy car shows, chili cook-offs, shopping, agricultural expos, and creative food competitions like the Big Tex Choice Awards, where fried beer and fried peaches and cream have been previous highlights. Established in 1886, the fair continues to celebrate Texas agriculture, community, and education.

#3 Wisconsin State Fair

The Wisconsin State Fair, held in West Allis, attracts over a million visitors each summer. With thousands of animals, educational exhibits, competitions in various categories, and a vast array of shopping options, the fair also offers more than two dozen games and thrilling rides. Live entertainment with big-name headliners is a major draw.

#2 Iowa State Fair

Each August, the Iowa State Fair in Des Moines becomes the state's biggest celebration. Attracting over a million attendees, this iconic fair inspired the book "State Fair" by Phil Stong, a Broadway musical, and three movies. It is also listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Don't miss the giant butter cow sculpture.

#1 Minnesota State Fair

The Minnesota State Fair in St. Paul is a premier event in the region, attracting nearly two million visitors each year. Spanning 320 acres, the fair usually runs from late August through Labor Day. It employs 80 full-time and about 2,000 part-time employees during fair time, and it significantly boosts the Twin Cities' and surrounding areas' economy.