State fairs represent a unique intersection of agricultural tradition, local entertainment, and culinary innovation. In 2017, several fairs across the United States reached new heights in attendance and community engagement. This article provides a detailed look at the top-ranked state fairs from 2017, examining the factors that made them successful and how they compared to one another. Whether you are looking for historical data or planning future trips based on long-standing reputations, this guide offers a clear perspective on the 2017 fair season.
Defining the Best Fairs of 2017
Ranking a state fair involves looking at several key metrics that define the visitor experience. While attendance numbers are a primary indicator of popularity, other factors like food variety, agricultural exhibits, and entertainment quality are equally important. In 2017, the most successful fairs were those that balanced traditional livestock shows with modern attractions like high-tech carnival rides and diverse musical lineups.
Economic impact is another way to measure the success of these events. Many fairs in 2017 contributed millions of dollars to their local economies, supporting vendors, farmers, and seasonal workers. By looking at official reports and visitor reviews from that year, we can identify which fairs stood out as the premier destinations for families and travelers.
The Top Ranked Fairs by Attendance and Popularity
Several fairs consistently lead the nation in terms of scale and scope. In 2017, these specific events set the standard for what a large-scale agricultural exposition should look like. Below are the fairs that dominated the rankings during that year.
1. The State Fair of Texas
Located in Dallas, the State Fair of Texas is often cited as the largest fair in the country by total attendance. In 2017, the fair ran for 24 days, starting in late September and ending in late October. It recorded over 2.25 million visitors, maintaining its position as a cultural powerhouse in the Southern United States.
A major draw in 2017 was the Big Tex Choice Awards, which honors the most creative and delicious fried foods. That year, winners included items like Funnel Cake Bacon Fries and Gulf Coast Fish Tacos. Beyond the food, the fair is famous for its 55-foot tall talking cowboy, Big Tex, and the annual football game between the University of Texas and the University of Oklahoma held at the Cotton Bowl Stadium.
2. The Minnesota State Fair
Often called "The Great Minnesota Get-Together," this fair is frequently ranked as the best in the nation for its food and agricultural displays. In 2017, the Minnesota State Fair saw a record-breaking 1,997,320 visitors over its 12-day run. This high daily average attendance makes it one of the most densely populated fairs in the world during its operation.
The 2017 season was notable for its "New Foods" list, which featured 31 new items and two new vendors. Popular additions included the Honey Cream Soda Float and the Brown Ale Onion Gouda Tips. The fair also maintained its strong focus on agriculture, with thousands of livestock entries and the iconic Princess Kay of the Milky Way butter sculptures, which remain a staple of the event.
3. The Iowa State Fair
The Iowa State Fair in Des Moines is renowned for its political significance and classic Americana atmosphere. In 2017, the fair attracted over 1.1 million people. It is widely considered one of the oldest and largest agricultural and industrial expositions in the country, having inspired books and movies.
In 2017, the fair featured its famous 600-pound Butter Cow, a tradition that dates back to 1911. The fair also hosted a wide array of grandstand performances and the "Cast Your Kernel" poll, which allowed visitors to vote for their preferred political candidates. This blend of civic engagement and traditional fair fun solidified its ranking as a top-tier event.
Notable Regional Highlights
While the largest fairs often get the most attention, several regional fairs in 2017 were highly ranked for their specific niches. These events offered high-quality experiences that rivaled their larger counterparts in terms of satisfaction and value.
- The Great New York State Fair: In 2017, this fair in Syracuse saw record attendance of over 1.16 million people. It benefited from significant state investment in its infrastructure, providing a modern and accessible experience for visitors.
- The Wisconsin State Fair: Known for its legendary Cream Puffs, the Wisconsin State Fair in West Allis exceeded one million visitors in 2017. Its focus on dairy promotion and local music made it a standout in the Midwest.
- The Ohio State Fair: This fair is celebrated for its massive butter sculptures and its commitment to showcasing the state’s agricultural achievements. In 2017, it remained a top destination for families in the Great Lakes region.
Memorable Food Trends of the 2017 Season
Food is a primary motivator for many fairgoers, and 2017 was a year of experimentation. The trend moved toward "mash-up" foods that combined sweet and savory flavors in unexpected ways. Deep-frying remained a dominant theme, with vendors competing to see who could fry the most unusual items.
In 2017, we saw the rise of breakfast-themed fair foods, such as deep-fried cereal and bacon-wrapped items. There was also an increased focus on craft beverages, with many fairs expanding their beer and wine gardens to feature local breweries. These culinary trends helped the fairs appeal to a younger demographic while maintaining the classic favorites like corn dogs and funnel cakes that long-time fans expect.
How to Research Historical Fair Data
If you are looking for more specific information about the 2017 fair season, there are several reliable ways to find the data you need. Historical records are often maintained by state agricultural departments and local news organizations.
- Visit Official State Fair Archives: Most major fairs maintain an "About Us" or "History" section on their official websites. These pages often include attendance records and lists of past award winners.
- Consult Local News Libraries: Local newspapers in host cities usually provide extensive coverage of fair events. Searching their archives for August or September 2017 will yield detailed reports on concerts, food reviews, and daily highlights.
- Check Agricultural Department Reports: State governments often publish annual reports on the economic impact and attendance of their state fairs. These documents provide the most accurate statistical data.
- Social Media Tags: Searching platforms for hashtags related to specific 2017 fairs can provide a first-hand look at the visitor experience through photos and videos shared by attendees at the time.
Conclusion
The 2017 state fair season was a period of growth and innovation for many of America’s most beloved events. From the massive scale of the State Fair of Texas to the record-setting crowds in Minnesota, these fairs proved that the tradition of the agricultural exposition remains a vital part of American culture. By focusing on quality entertainment, unique food, and community heritage, these fairs earned their spots as the best of the year. To learn more about current events or to find tips for your next trip, explore our other articles on travel and local entertainment.