Are you wondering what to eat at the Florida State Fair?
The fair is known for its carnival rides, games, and of course, its food. With over 100 vendors offering a wide variety of treats, there’s sure to be something for everyone.
The Florida State Fair is a yearly celebration of the Sunshine State’s culture, traditions, and heritage. With a variety of activities, food, and music, the Florida State Fair is a great place to have fun with your family and friends.
This annual event is held in Tampa. The first fair was held in 1904 and has been a part of the state’s history for more than 100 years. It has become a beloved tradition for Floridians and visitors alike.
In this post, we’ll explore a bit of the history of the fair, traditional Florida food, and the most delicious and wildest eats you’ll find on the fairgrounds.
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So let’s talk food because it is the star of the show.
Don’t miss the video review below where we rate some of our favorites.
Classic Florida State Fair Foods
Here are some of the most popular and delicious foods to try:
FUNNEL CAKE – This classic fair food is a must-try.
DEEP FRIED OREOS – Oreo cookies battered and deep-fried, then dusted with powdered sugar.
CORN DOGS- hot dogs dipped in cornmeal batter and deep-fried on a stick.
TURKEY LEG – Giant roasted turkey legs. This meaty treat is perfect for carnivores.
ELEPHANT EARS- a flat, fried dough pastry topped with butter, cinnamon, and sugar.
Craziest Florida State Fair Treats
If you’re feeling adventurous, you might want to try some of the wildest and most unusual foods available at the fair:
KRISPY KREME BURGER – This burger is sandwiched between two Krispy Kreme donuts.
DEEP-FRIED TWINKIES – Twinkies are battered and deep-fried for a sweet and crispy treat. From deep-fried pickles to deep-fried mac and cheese, many foods are battered and deep-fried to create unique fair treats.
SPAGHETTI ICE CREAM- Vanilla ice cream extruded through a pasta maker to resemble spaghetti, topped with strawberry sauce and white chocolate shavings.
BACON-WRAPPED GRILLED CHEESE – This sandwich is a combination of gooey cheese and salty bacon. You can basically find every kind of bacon-wrapped item to munch on.
What’s NEW to Eat at the Florida State Fair
New treats are added to the fair every year. Here are a few of the latest.
PEANUT BUTTER CREAM DOUGHNUT
Homemade vanilla pudding, peanut butter crumbles, and whipped cream layered over a yummy doughnut. Served up by Sarasota local doughnut truck Peachey’s Baking Co. Our absolute favorite at the fair. We ate one when we arrived and grabbed another on our way out.
HOT CHEETO BURGER
A fresh grilled ground beef patty, covered in gooey melty cheese and topped with crispy crunchy HOT CHEETOS, a real adventure in flavor.
APPLE FRIES
Granny Smith apples battered and deep fried, coated in cinnamon sugar. They are light, crispy, and delicious.
MAC DADDY
BBQ pulled pork & mac n cheese stuffed between two waffles.
DILLYLICIOUS LOADED PICKLES
Pickle Fries Loaded with Bacon, Ranch & Cheese.
DILL PICKLE LEMONADE
Ice cold cup of lemonade with pickles and pickle juice. It’s a big dill.
MANGONADA
Real mango blended into a slushy topped with chamoy (a sweet tangy syrup), tajin (lime tangy salt), and a tamarind stick (sweet chewy, spicy candy). We tried this sweet and delicious treat. the stick candy was spicier than expected.
There are also many other options for international cuisine, including Cuban sandwiches, gyros, and pizza.
No matter what you’re in the mood for, the Florida State Fair is sure to have a variety of delicious and unusual foods to try.
What Else Can I Expect From the Florida State Fair?
The Florida State Fair is a yearly celebration of the Sunshine State’s culture, traditions, and heritage.
In addition to the food, the fair offers a variety of activities for visitors of all ages. Carnival rides, games, and a petting zoo are just a few of the family-friendly options available.
Cracker Country
What is Cracker Country?
Cracker Country is a historical village at the fair where you can experience traditional Florida life from the late 1800s to the early 1900s. There are costumed interpreters, demonstrating life during that time period.
The name “Cracker” comes from the cracking sound made by the whips used by Florida cowboys (also known as “crackers”) to herd cattle.
In addition to demonstrations of traditional crafts and trades, Cracker Country also offers a variety of traditional Florida foods. Visitors can try fried catfish, hushpuppies, and boiled peanuts, among other classic dishes.
Live Entertainment
The Florida State Fair offers a variety of live entertainment, from musical acts to animal shows. The fair’s headline entertainment includes a variety of musical acts, ranging from country to rock.
Additionally, visitors can enjoy animal shows, such as the Pig Races and Otter Adventures, and the Extreme Dog show.
Activities
Every year, the Florida State Fair attracts visitors from all over the region, eager to witness livestock competitions, carnival rides, and amusements.
There are more than 100 rides available, and visitors can also enjoy a variety of exhibitions, lumberjack demonstrations, glass blowing, circus acts, and a high dive show.
The main point of the fair has always been to showcase Florida’s agricultural history and industry, and it is a great way to learn more about Florida’s past.
With a variety of activities, food, and music, the Florida State Fair is a great place to have fun with your family and friends.
The Florida State Fair offers a variety of delicious and adventurous foods for visitors to try. From classic funnel cakes to deep-fried Oreos and Krispy Kreme burgers, there’s something for everyone.
Check out the other attractions, from live entertainment to carnival rides.
After tasting all the food from the Florida State Fair, be sure to consult this list of what foods to bring back home from Florida.
We hope this guide helps you make the most of your visit and to decide what to eat at the Florida State Fair!
Where to Stay Nearby
Need a place to stay near the Florida State Fair?
The Florida State Fairgrounds is located in Tampa, Florida, and is home to many attractions and nightlife options.
If you are planning to make more than just a day trip out of your visit then there are several hotels nearby that offer great amenities and prices.
Use this Tampa Hotel Guide for reviews and photos of accommodations in Tampa.
For those staying in nearby Sarasota here is the ultimate vacation guide for you.
Frequently Asked Questions
When is the Florida State Fair?
The Florida State Fair is held annually in the month of February.
How much does it cost to attend the Florida State Fair?
2023 Florida State Fair admission prices are:
$15 for adults, $10 for children, and $10 for seniors on weekdays.
Can I bring my own food and drinks to the Florida State Fair?
Outside food and drinks are not allowed on the fairgrounds, with the exception of a bottle of water per person.
Are there rides at the Florida State Fair?
Yes, there are numerous rides and games for children and adults. You can purchase individual tickets or a ride armband to save money.
Can I bring my pet to the Florida State Fair?
Pets are not allowed in the fairgrounds, with the exception of service animals
What are some practical tips for visiting the Florida State Fair?
Arrive early to beat the crowds and find good parking, wear comfortable shoes and dress in layers, bring cash, and if you plan to ride the rides, purchase a ride armband to save money on individual tickets.
RESOURCES
“Cracker Country.” Florida State Fair, https://floridastatefair.com/cracker-country/. Accessed 17 Feb. 2023.
Florida Cattle Ranching Exhibit. https://crackercountry.org/index.php/come-visit/when-to-visit/florida-state-fair/florida-cattle-ranching-exhibit. Accessed 17 Feb. 2023.
“Florida State Fair.” Florida State Fair, https://floridastatefair.com/. Accessed 17 Feb. 2023.
