Fulton County Fair Grounds

«We’re gettin’ ready for a good time/​At the Fulton County Faiiiiiiirrr!»
That’s the jingle I remember hearing every summer growing up. Because Fulton’s truly is the top county fair in the State of Ohio. Really, check it out.
While I haven’t attended the FC Fair since moving to Phoenix in 2001, I have been to the fairgrounds twice now for the Thresher’s Convention. In addition to one of the largest collections of thresher equipment and antique implements, the Thresher’s Convention also has some terrific finds at their flea market. This year was no exception. That said, leave your city shoes at home; ain’t nobody got time for that. If you’re fortunate enough to go during a time when the machinery is actually operating, you’ll get a treat. Well, it’ll be exciting. Eh, in a historic educational sort of way. Oh, just go!

Home to one of the best fairs in Ohio, and one of the largest after the Ohio State Fair, held annually on Labor Day weekend. I grew up here, and have spent every more time than I can imagine at this fair over the past 22 years. From Jr Fair Day (Tuesday-​Kids get in free, plus discounts on ride tickets) to the concerts, there’s something to do for everyone. The concerts are fantastic– Sunday night is a «classic rock» show that has featured REO Speedwagon, Kansas and the Beach Boys in recent years. The Labor Day Country Concert is an incredible experience. Most years, the fair board is able to pick an act that is right on the brink of being huge and brings them out here. I’ve seen Brad Paisley, Rascal Flatts, Blake Shelton, and Dierks Bentley to name a few, never paying more than $ 25 for a ticket (no seriously, that’s as expensive as they get)
The fair food is amazing: I prefer «local» stands– the Cattle Feeders, Pork Producers and Dairy Barns are a great place to start for sandwiches and milkshakes. Head north up the midway to Fat Guy’s Funnel Cakes and then after you see one of the nightly grandstand events (concerts, demo derbys, horse racing and rodeos have all been options), grab a box of donuts from the Wauseon Music Boosters I am partial to them after spending 5 years making them as a band member. Get a custom box of powdered sugar, cinnamon sugar and chocolate frosted for the next morning. Or to eat in the car, as you’re probably going to be stuck in some traffic if you wait until closing time. If you’re out and about at the fairgrounds early, I love a Blackbird special from the Pettisville Music Boosters stand.
From merchant exhibits, craft entries, 4-​H club projects and booths and animals (including an ever popular baby animal barn), there is plenty to see. In addition, there’s your standard carny rides and games. The location of these, as well as the food booths NEVER change, so it always feels like a comfortable return to home every year.