Soak up the Fun at the Florida State Fair (Feb. 4-15)

The Florida State Fair is an annual event that brings out some of the best of Florida. Whether you’re looking for mouthwatering treats, outstanding crafts, or thrilling rides, you’ll find what you’re after at the fair.

Cracker Country

The Florida State Fair is one of the few times that Cracker Country opens its doors to visitors. This historic area features 13 original structures, costumed period interpreters, live demonstrations, musical performances, and old-fashioned souvenirs and crafts to take home. During the fair you can even get a newspaper created right in front of you on an antique printing press. Cracker Country snacks include boiled peanuts, kettle corn, pork rinds, and beef jerky.

People’s Choice Burger Contest

The winning two burgers from the People’s Choice Burger Contest will have a spot on the fair menu. Two of the following picks will give you a mouthwatering delight to look forward to:

• Bacon Bomb Explosion Burger: BBQ sauce, ranch, and special seasoning give a unique kick to this burger loaded with bacon and hickory smoked.
• French Toast Burger: French toast takes the place of the bun on this burger drizzled in special sauce.
• Ice Cream Burger: A classic burger topped with Mexican-style fried ice cream.
• Redneck Burger: Fried bologna, potato sticks, and baked beans add extra pizzazz to a traditional bacon cheeseburger.

Live Entertainment

The Florida State Fair brings live entertainment to the stage every day. Daily performers include Swashchucklers Comedy Pirate Show, Dennis Lee, Matt’s Family Jam, Sundown, Yesterdaze, and the Brown Entertainment High Dive. On select days you can also catch The Country Gold Tour, Lazy Bonez, 10th Avenue North, Beatlemania, Gary Puckett and the Union Gap, and more.

Midway Excitement

Head to the Midway to enjoy some classic rides or try a half a dozen new ones. Take the whole family on the Balloon Fiesta Wheel for a gentle spin. Thrill seekers should head to the spinning Disko roller coaster or Super Cyclone Roller Coaster. The New York New York Super Funhouse is the largest on the midway at three stories tall. If you’re looking for an exciting spin, try the Jungle Twist or Stampeded double Ferris wheel.

Competitive Exhibits

The Florida State Fair helps showcase some of the best of the best in the state. Check out the competitive exhibits for baking, woodworking, china painting, sewing, decorative arts, and more by clicking the link above. With everything from antique displays to youth art contests, there’s plenty to browse at the fair.

Mark your calendar now so you don’t miss any of the excitement. The Florida State Fair is just a day trip away from Springs at Estero, so get out of the apartment and make the most of it!