The South Florida Fair has returned to Palm Beach County once again until February 3rd, offering rides, games, and entertainment for all ages.
It takes about a minute of strolling through the fairgrounds to really hit the heart of the event. Before you’re greeted by the loud, blaring music and the bright and colorful flashing lights that illuminate the entire spectacle, the smells of all the delicious goodies that any visitor would hope for and expect at a carnival are overwhelming almost immediately.
New Year’s resolutions are put on pause as guests indulge in a variety of treats: Cotton candy, popcorn, pizza, corn dogs, elephant ears, funnel cake and other carnival classics. Don’t forget the deep-fried delights—Oreos, Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups, and anything else you can possibly imagine to batter and fry up. Seriously, this one of my main reasons for going to the fair.
When the smells of food start to grow weaker and turn into smells of, well, something not as pleasant—you know you’re getting close to the animal exhibits. Kids and animal lovers will appreciate the opportunity to pet and feed a variety of creatures, including rabbits, chickens, and goats.
In addition to the animal exhibits, there are other activities to partake in if you’re looking to take it slow and easy. Sit back and take in a show—whether it’s a concert or magic act you’re interested in, the acts that hit the main stage are constantly changing.
Looking for a little more excitement? Follow the screams of joy (and horror) to find your way to some of the many rides that the South Florida Fair has to offer. With 135 acres of fairgrounds, there is something for everyone—from tame and gentle rides for the kiddies, to adrenaline-pumping rides for adults.
Whether you’re weaving your way through the rides or choosing to skip them completely, ignore the urge to respond to the “step right up, step right up” sales pitch and pay even more money to view either the smallest, largest, fattest, or skinniest living being that cannot possibly be so big, tiny, hefty or thin. Save your money for the games, instead. (I’ve fallen victim to this way too many times!)
The games, which are expensive and often impossible to be victorious in, offer prizes that leave a lot to be desired. The prize theme throughout this year’s event appears to be an overwhelming amount of jumbo-sized stuffed bananas, and as tempting as it sounds, the games themselves can be challenging and fun—even if you have no intentions or hopes of actually winning. There is, after all, a great deal of satisfaction in simply being able to successfully toss a ring around the neck of an empty beer bottle. I wouldn’t know how that feels, though.
Tickets are priced at $15.00 for adults, $8.00 for children and $9.00 for seniors. The South Florida Fair is located at 9067 Southern Boulevard in West Palm Beach, Florida. For more information about the fair, call 561-793-0333 or visit them on the web at southfloridafair.com.
