21st October 2024, 8:19 PM
(20th October 2024, 7:24 PM)Camer the Dragon Wrote: I don't think I've ever been to one of these as idk if they're US-only, but I have been to ones that are a lot smaller and local where they have a few rides and a couple of food stalls. They're alright to spend like an hour or two at with people you know depending on what they have, a bigger one I could definitely see being an afternoon-long event if you like them.
Yeah food prices in such places can get to be really marked up (e.g. if I were to go to the cinema again, I'd eat and drink beforehand), also ngl if I'm going on a ride that's gonna spin me round then I don't wanna eat at all for a few hours before because I feel I'd be sick. In terms of the increase from $7 to $18, I would assume inflation here and there is at least similar, but £7 in 2009 is now £11 in 2024 (£7 in 2000 is £13 in 2024) so it definitely seems even above general inflation. I don't think the ones I've been to have had awful prices but then again they were local things so it's not like you're that far away from other shops if you need.
I'm not that big a fan of the rides nor massive crowds, so I don't tend to go to these types of events much (small or large).
Yeah, they’re only based in the US, I think. If you came to the US and tried one of the State fair rides, you’d probably gain a different experience and develop a different opinion. But yeah, the inflation has gotten ridiculous since the 2010s from what I remember. Where I am, it was so crowded during the late afternoon because we had a concert going on that day.
(21st October 2024, 3:38 AM)Addy Wrote: its always a great time with a partner! i've always wanted to take my girlfriend on my state fair but never really went because of being busy. i think the prices are what they are and has a reason to be as high so people can support the locals, heck, where else can i go to grab a giant turkey leg and eat one?
Oh yeah, for sure. You just gotta make arrangements and take days off ahead of time, you know. Considering the turkey leg, I feel you on that one. The closest you’ll get to that is probably Costco or BJ’s, maybe. On the flip side, I can see why almost everyone says you gotta bring at least $200 to go to the fair because of the ridiculous prices and all.
(21st October 2024, 2:37 PM)Mia Wrote: I've been to a county fair. It had the sketchiest looking carnival rides ever, and a vendor selling deep fried pickles. Not really my vibe.
Oh wow. Doesn’t sound like any State Fair that I’ve ever been to, and certainly wouldn’t go to. I didn’t even bother getting on any rides anymore because I hear stories about them breaking down. In fact, it’s been about 10 years since I’ve been on a ride at the State fair.
(21st October 2024, 5:23 PM)Uptight 534 Wrote: Wait until you read about deep fried butter and deep fried Kool-Aid, lol.
The state I grew up in was not really that big on the State Fair thing. There was one, but because it was a pretty urbanized state, there was no heavy rural connection that is usually associated with state fairs.
In terms of the prices of concessions and parking, it has always been that way (maybe slightly adjusted for inflation now). I still remember ten to fifteen years ago having to pay $15-20 for basic food at an amusement park. Parking was at least $20, as well.
Tbh, I don’t see why anyone would want to try deep fried Kool-aid… it just sounds disgusting. Now the deep-fried Oreos, I’ll try that ?
Yeah the parking has always been a nightmare, but you know what… it’s the price of food that really hits home with inflation and all. Since when are funnel cakes $12? Then I tried some, soggy ass nachos with cheese for $8. Complete rip off.
