Few would disagree that mouthwatering food is the number one reason to attend a county or state fair. With everything from foot-long corndogs to fresh lemon shake-ups, the fair has nearly every guilty pleasure item you could ever want. Here’s a bucket list of the nine must-haves you and your family can indulge in this year.

Deep-fried… well, everything!

If you can fry it, people will eat it. Oreos, Twinkies, doughnuts, cheesecake, candy bars and anything else you can think of (even Kool-Aid), the fair will provide fried. This twist on food gives a sweet and savory crunch and texture to the classics and some more unusual choices (such as butter and Pepsi). 

 
Funnel cake

Fried dough covered in powdered sugar, this old-fashioned creation will make anyone happy. Whether you share it with the family or keep it all for yourself, the funnel cake is always a good choice. Now served with strawberries, blueberries, with ice cream on top or in various flavors, it is hard to say, “No” to this delicious treat.

 
Pie

From deep-fried to dipped in chocolate, you can get pie anyway you want. Apple, cherry, blueberry, Indiana’s own sugar cream or whatever other flavor you may be craving, the fair will most likely have it. Don’t wait for Thanksgiving to taste your favorite dessert, eat it this summer.

Anything covered in cheese

Fries, potato skins, tater-tots and Philly cheesesteaks…the list could go on forever. Food that is smothered in cheese is irresistible, so why not try it this summer?

Cotton candy

This fluffy dessert can send you and your kids into a sugar rush. This simple treat can keep you feeling light and give you a rush of energy to keep looking at the animals and tracking down who won the 4-H cake decorating contest.

The bizarre

Anything from chocolate covered ants and frog legs, to bison hushpuppies and alligator bites,  the more adventurous can challenge their taste buds by looking for unusual foods while at the fair. Don’t be afraid to ask around to find out what the strangest thing you could try while at the fair.

Elephant ears

This yummy treat is a fair staple. Get your giant elephant ear with toppings like cinnamon sugar, powdered sugar—or both. One bite can take you back to when you were a kid and the first time you went to the fair. Whether you prefer the crispy edges or the soft middle, enjoy this 100-year-old classic treat while at the fair. If they look too big for your appetite, don’t worry; most vendors offer a mouse ear, a mini version.

Corn dogs

There is hardly anything better than a corn dog on a stick. This all-time favorite comes in regular or foot-long sizes and is easy to eat while walking from one food booth to the next! Simply squirt a line of ketchup and mustard and you’ll be on your way.

Lemon shake-ups

Looking for a refreshing way to quench your thirst in the 90-degree weather? The lemon shake-up is the just the thing to revive you and your family and keep you hydrated during hot days at the fair.

Whatever your favs may be, you will no doubt find them at your local county fair or the Indiana State Fair. Check out www.indianafestivals.org to see more in your area.