Bellies full and lungs are screaming. It’s time for the fair. Honestly , I haven’t been to the fair in about 3 years. I love the atmosphere of the fair. The mesmerizing smells of the fresh fried foods, simple sweet cotton candy. Nostalgic Fresh Squeezed Lemonade and the dazzle of fireworks over the lake . There’s a thrill when you overhear the screams of riders on the Fireball ride swinging like a pendulum . The bright lights and buzzing music. Do you remember the crazy exaggerated curves of the Crazy Mouse roller coaster? The fair always represents cool hoodie weather, rocking to music while waiting your turn to scream your lungs out then turn around and grab some food! The fair was a staple in my childhood.
This year I’m going back – just to eat. I love to ride the rides but we have to pick and choose our battles. I’m bound to get sick if I try to eat and ride at the same time. We are heading to the South Carolina State Fair to grub on some classics and try some new things. Some of the classic eats on my list include a Carmel Apple with peanuts, OG Funnel Cake with powdered sugar and cinnamon, Cheese Fries, a Gyro and maybe a pizza slice. I still have a few days to work out the scheduling of these meals because they must be spread out. I might even have a doggie bag to take home!
On top of 90+ vendors selling all your favorites like Boiled Peanuts, Chicken on a Stick, Corndogs and Curly Fries – There will be some new eats on the scene. I have my eye on the new Rice and Beans Sundae. This treat features sautéed onions and peppers, diced tomatoes, red beans, chorizo sausage, spices, and sweet corn. It is mixed with red rice and topped with a choice of Sirloin Steak, Cajun Shrimp, Grilled Chicken Tenders, or Pulled Pork. 
There will also be some new sweets on the scene like Maple Cotton Candy and Apple Dumplings. The Apple Dumplings are Red Delicious Apples peeled and cored — wrapped in a flaky pie crust – oven baked and served with a caramel cinnamon sauce and vanilla ice cream. 
Ahh! I caught you drooling ! Come on and join us at the South Carolina State Fair. There’s always something for everyone including crazy fried items to try like fried pickles. You can float in midair on the Good Ol Gravitron space ride or you can grab a Root Beer Float – which ever floats your boat!
South Carolina State Fair / Columbia , SC October 10-21nd
Coastal Carolina Fair / Ladson, SC October 25- November 4nd
