County Fair Traditions Kids Loved That Would Be Banned Today

The county fair was once a place where kids could roam free, take risks, and make memories that would last a lifetime. Today’s fairs are carefully regulated affairs with safety barriers and warning signs everywhere. Let’s take a nostalgic look back at some of the activities that made county fairs thrilling adventures – even if they wouldn’t pass today’s safety standards.

1. Riding in the Back of Pickup Trucks to the Fair

Whole families would pile into pickup trucks for the drive to the fairgrounds, with kids bouncing around in the back. The excitement built as you spotted the Ferris wheel on the horizon. The wind in your hair and the sound of gravel under the tires were part of the experience.

2. Wandering the Fairgrounds Unsupervised

Parents would give kids a few dollars and tell them to be back by dark. Children as young as seven or eight would explore in groups, making their own decisions about rides and food. The fairgrounds became a kingdom of childhood independence.

3. Handling Farm Animals Without Sanitizer

Kids would spend hours in the livestock areas, petting animals and helping with feeding. No hand sanitizer stations or warning signs about washing hands – just direct contact with nature. Sometimes you’d even help clean the stalls or assist with milking demonstrations.

4. Climbing the Ferris Wheel Structure

Daring kids would sometimes climb on the support structure of the Ferris wheel for better views or photos. The carnival workers might even encourage it, as long as you didn’t go too high. No security guards or liability concerns in sight.

5. Riding Without Safety Harnesses

Many rides had simple lap bars or no restraints at all. The Tilt-A-Whirl relied on centrifugal force and your own grip strength to keep you in place. The more daring you were, the more fun you had.

6. Working the Game Booths

Local kids would often help run game booths for pocket money, handling cash and prizes without any background checks or permits. It was a chance to earn some spending money and be part of the fair atmosphere.

7. Helping Set Up Rides

Kids would volunteer to help carnival workers set up rides and booths, often earning free ride tickets for their trouble. No liability waivers or age restrictions – just eager helpers learning how the carnival worked.

8. Drinking from Shared Water Fountains

Everyone used the same water fountains without concern for germs. On hot summer days, kids would take turns splashing water on their faces and getting drinks. No bottled water or sanitation worries in sight.

9. Carrying Prize Animals Around

Winners of carnival games would walk around with live goldfish in plastic bags or baby chicks in cardboard boxes. No concerns about animal welfare or proper care instructions – just proud kids with their new pets.

10. Eating Unwrapped Cotton Candy

Cotton candy was spun right in front of you and handed over without any packaging. The sticky treat would collect dust and bugs, but nobody seemed to mind. The experience of watching it being made was part of the magic.

11. Shooting Real BB Guns

Shooting galleries used actual BB guns with minimal supervision. Kids would line up to test their marksmanship at metal targets. No age restrictions or safety goggles required – just steady aim and a few nickels.

12. Testing Strength Games

Kids would attempt the high striker and other strength tests designed for adults. No weight restrictions or warning signs – if you could lift the hammer, you could try your luck. Many a young show-off learned humility at these attractions.

13. Riding Home in Open Truck Beds

The ride home was often in darkness, with exhausted kids piled in truck beds watching the stars. Prize stuffed animals and leftover snacks would be shared as everyone relived the day’s adventures. No seatbelts or safety concerns dampened the magical ending to a fair day.