From My Mailbox: Arizona State Fair

I received this email from Mary in Ithaca, New York:

We have subscribed to your guide now since last winter, and have been very satisfied with the recommendations, tips, and tricks for living in the desert. However, we were very disappointed by the Arizona State fair. In New York, it would take us one very full day to see most of the attractions, without taking any time to go on any rides, which we generally don't do. Yesterday, we went through the Arizona state fair in about 2 1/2 hours. It was such a disappointment.

The crafts and photography were great, but where were the prize vegetables, plants, tractor pulls, horse competitions, etc.?....Anyway, I know Arizona doesn't have a significant history of agricultural fairs, however, what they bill as the "state fair" is little better than a small county fair back in NY.

Gee, Mary, I'm sorry you didn't enjoy the fair. I would agree that it is probably a bigger hit with the folks who enjoy all the rides and the food. The concerts in the evenings are also a big draw, since they are general admission, included with the entrance fee. Like you, I found myself looking for giant zucchinis, and came up short. If you are ever here in the springtime, stop by the Maricopa County Fair (same location except for the horsemanship events) and I think you'll get more of what you were expecting.

For those of you who enjoy the Arizona State Fair, you have just one more week to get there.

Arizona State Fair Details

Arizona State Fair Pictures