When autumn rolls around in the South, county fairs and small-town festivals come to life. Whether you’re looking for thrill rides or handcrafted goods, these events capture the spirit of fall in the South. But beyond the rides and crafts, you’ll discover some hidden tastes of the South that will keep you coming back every year.
County fairs: A Southern spectacle
Step onto the fairgrounds, and you’re immediately swept up in a whirlwind of sights, sounds and smells. The air is thick with the scent of fried dough and grilled corn, the distant screech of ride machinery mingles with laughter and music, and there’s something new to see or do everywhere you look.
Midway madness
The heart of any county fair is its midway. Here, you’ll find thrill rides, from classic Ferris wheels to modern, stomach-churning contraptions that will test your courage. The carnival games are another fan favorite on the midway. You can try your luck at ring toss or balloon darts. The giant stuffed animal prizes are hard to resist, even if the games seem impossible to win.
Fair food frenzy
County fair food is an attraction all its own. Must-try items include funnel cakes, a crispy, golden web of fried dough dusted with powdered sugar, with some vendors offering unique toppings like fresh fruit or chocolate sauce. Beyond funnel cakes, you’ll find just about anything fried — Oreos, butter, ice cream and apple pies. If it exists, someone has probably figured out how to fry it.
Don’t forget the sliders and chocolate chip cookies. Sliders are perfect for a quick bite between rides, while warm, gooey cookies are a sweet treat to end the day. Of course, no fair is complete without classic cotton candy and caramel apples, which often come with a choice of toppings for a personalized touch.
Agricultural exhibits and competitions
County fairs have deep roots in agricultural traditions, such as livestock shows, where local farmers showcase their prize-winning cattle, pigs and poultry. These events are often a source of pride for local farming families. Many county fairs feature exciting grandstand events like tractor pulls, demolition derbies and rodeos.
Some rural fairs feature crop competitions, from giant pumpkins to perfect ears of corn, highlighting local farming prowess. Youth agricultural programs from local 4-H and Future Farmers of America chapters show off their hard work and learn valuable skills. These exhibits often feature educational components for visitors to learn about modern farming practices.
Tips for attending a county fair
Make sure to wear comfortable shoes, as you’ll be walking a lot. Bring some cash since not all vendors accept cards, and check the schedule for special events or discount days beforehand. To avoid an upset stomach, pace yourself with the rides and food. And don’t forget a light jacket or sweatshirt — October evenings can get chilly.
Small-town festivals feature charm and community spirit
While county fairs focus on over-the-top rides and food, small-town festivals celebrate local culture and craftsmanship. Stroll down Main Street during a small-town festival, and you’ll find it transformed into an open-air gallery of local talent and tradition.
Arts and crafts
During the fair, many towns transform their main streets into lively pedestrian zones filled with tents and booths showcasing a variety of unique wares. Local artisans display their handmade crafts, including quilts, pottery, woodworking and jewelry. Many are eager to share the stories and inspiration behind their creations, offering a personal touch to your shopping experience.
Art shows featuring paintings, sculptures and photography capture the region’s spirit and provide an opportunity to discover local talent. Demonstrations of traditional crafts like glassblowing and basket weaving offer a glimpse into these fascinating skills, and some even allow visitors to try their hand at the craft.
Local flavors
Food is a favorite part of small-town festivals, often showcasing regional favorites. In the South, expect to find plenty of barbecue, with each vendor boasting their own special recipe. Homemade pies, like apple, pecan, and sweet potato, are common and often made with cherished family recipes.
Jams and preserves are another highlight, perfect for gifts or slathering on biscuits at home. And, for a true taste of Southern tradition, try some boiled peanuts, a classic snack often sold warm in paper bags.
Music and performance
Entertainment at small-town festivals often has a more personal feel. You can catch local bands playing everything from bluegrass and folk to acoustic guitar, giving you a true sense of the area’s sound. Dance performances like clogging or square dancing showcase regional traditions, while storytelling sessions bring local history and folklore to life through captivating tales.
Community competitions
Friendly contests are a fun way to bring the community together at these festivals. Baking is a popular category, with bragging rights going to the creators of the best pies, cakes and breads. While the judging is serious business, it’s all in good fun.
For those with green thumbs, there are often contests to see who grew the most giant tomatoes or the longest squash. And, of course, talent shows provide a stage for local singers, dancers and high school bands to shine.
Historical celebrations
Many small-town festivals focus on celebrating history. Re-enactments often bring important local or regional events to life, giving visitors a glimpse into the past.
You’ll also find heritage crafts like blacksmithing or soap making, where traditional skills are demonstrated to show how things were once done. Local history exhibits, filled with photos and artifacts, provide a deeper look into the town’s rich and storied history.
Tips for festivalgoers
Engage with artisans, as they often enjoy sharing stories about their crafts. It’s also helpful to bring a reusable bag for any purchases. Before heading out, check if the festival offers a shuttle service from the parking areas to save yourself a long walk. If you’re a local, consider volunteering — it’s a great way to get involved and meet new friends.
A Southern way of life
County fairs and small-town festivals are a big part of fall in the South. These gatherings show off what makes each community special, from farming skills to local art and cooking.
These events offer a break from the routine in an increasingly digital and fast-paced world. They’re a chance to step away from screens and spend time with real people. Whether you’re watching a livestock show at the county fair or chatting with a local artist on Main Street, you’re joining in on something that’s been going on for generations.
Next time you see a Ferris wheel on the horizon or a banner announcing a fall festival, take a detour. You’ll get a taste of local life and have some fun along the way.
Lucy Brewer is a professional writer and fourth-generation Southern cook who founded Southern Food and Fun. She’s passionate about preserving classic Southern recipes while creating easy, crowd-pleasing dishes for the modern home cook.