The Fair is a fun place to be and a little preparation can help the day go even smoother.
The State Fair is a fun place to be, but with thousands of people on the grounds every day, the population of the fairgrounds is larger than most cities and towns across the state. With that, keep in mind that the same things that happen every day in a city could happen at the fair.
Here are a few suggestions to help make your day at the Fair even more enjoyable.
RIDES
Follow the instructions of ride operators. The majority of ride incidents occur because of rider error. Don’t rock the seats on gondola rides such as the Ferris Wheel or State Fair Flyer. (Don’t be that guy.) Also, the height restrictions are there for a reason, so, don’t try to sneak kids on a ride that they aren’t tall enough for.
SHOES
You can literally walk miles at the fair. (We do every day!) So wear comfortable shoes. On warm days, flip flops may be the coolest, but might not be the smartest. Protect your toes and wear closed-toed shoes. Also, if you plan to ride rides, plan to wear shoes that won’t fall off.
FAMILIES & GROUPS
If you’re bringing kids to the fair, stop by an information booth and pick up a lost-child tag when you get here, so if you get separated, we can help reunite you faster. It’s also a good idea to set a meeting location if you do get separated. Cell phones don’t always work. Snap a picture of your family at a selfie spot near a gate. Not only is it a great memento, it also serves as a reminder of what your kids are wearing if they do get lost.
OTHER TIPS
Wash your hands often. (It’s always good practice)
Pay attention to signs and don’t touch the animals. When you leave animal exhibit areas, use the hand washing stations.
Stay hydrated. Many medical emergencies can occur when you get dehydrated.
Pay attention to your surroundings and watch for trip hazards, like uneven ground.
Don’t bring your dog, monkey, ferret, etc. (Yes, people have tried.) The fair is a sensory overload for people — imagine how your dog would feel. Only trained service dogs (as defined by the Americans with Disabilities Act) are allowed in the gates.
Finally, if you do find yourself in need of minor first aid, the Red Cross has stations outside of the Martin Building, Expo Center and in Kiddieland. Law enforcement will be also be on the grounds and can help you should you need them.
