National State Fair Food Day – July 11: Origins, Tips & Quotes

Are you ready to indulge in a mouthwatering celebration of all things deep-fried and delicious? National State Fair Food Day on July 11th is the perfect occasion to satisfy your cravings for classic fair treats. From funnel cakes to corn dogs, this annual food celebration brings the nostalgic flavors of the fairgrounds right to your taste buds. 

In this article, we will explore the origins of National State Fair Food Day, highlight some iconic fair foods, and provide tips for enjoying these delectable delights. So, let’s dive in and embark on a gastronomic adventure!

The allure of state fairs goes beyond thrilling rides and live entertainment. One of the highlights of any fair experience is undoubtedly the diverse range of mouthwatering foods available. National State Fair Food Day, observed on July 11th each year, celebrates these culinary delights that have become synonymous with the joy and indulgence of fairs across the country.

• Related: National Free Slurpee Day

The Origins of National State Fair Food Day

National State Fair Food Day was established to honor the rich tradition of fair foods and the joy they bring to millions of people attending state fairs nationwide. It serves as a reminder of the unique culinary experiences found within the vibrant atmosphere of a fair, where people of all ages come together to create lasting memories while savoring their favorite treats.

Iconic Fair Foods: A Culinary Journey

1. Funnel Cakes

Bold and beautiful, funnel cakes are a staple at state fairs. These deep-fried dough confections are made by pouring batter through a funnel into hot oil, creating intricate and irresistible patterns. Once golden brown, they are dusted with powdered sugar and often served with a generous dollop of whipped cream or a drizzle of chocolate sauce. The crispy yet tender texture and the delightful combination of sweetness and warmth make funnel cakes a beloved fair classic.

2. Corn Dogs

The iconic corn dog is a portable and flavorful delight. A juicy hot dog on a stick, coated in a cornmeal-based batter, is deep-fried until golden and crispy. The result is a perfect fusion of meaty goodness and crunchy cornbread. Corn dogs are typically enjoyed with a side of mustard or ketchup, adding an extra zing to each bite. These handheld treats are a must-try for fair enthusiasts.

3. Deep-Fried Oreos

Prepare your taste buds for a mind-blowing experience with deep-fried Oreos. A twist on the beloved cookie, this fair favorite involves dipping Oreo cookies into a sweet batter and frying them until they reach a delectable golden brown. The heat transforms the cookie, creating a warm, melty center that harmonizes beautifully with the crispy exterior. It’s a heavenly combination that will leave you craving more.

4. Elephant Ears

Step right up and treat yourself to an elephant ear, a sugary sensation that resembles the ear of an elephant. These oversized pastries are made by stretching and flattening the dough, which is then deep-fried and generously dusted with cinnamon and sugar. Elephant ears offer a delightful mix of crispy and chewy textures, making them an ideal sweet indulgence for fairgoers.

5. Fried Pickles

For pickle enthusiasts, fairgrounds provide the perfect opportunity to try fried pickles. Crisp dill pickle slices are coated in a seasoned batter and fried until they become golden and crunchy. The result is a tangy, savory snack with a delightful contrast between the crispiness of the coating and the juiciness of the pickle. This unique fair food is a true flavor adventure.

Tips for Enjoying Fair Foods

While fair foods are undeniably tempting, it’s essential to enjoy them in moderation and keep some simple tips in mind:

1. Moderation is Key

Indulge in your favorite fair treats but remember to practice moderation. Enjoy smaller portions to satisfy your cravings without overindulging.

2. Sharing is Caring

Consider sharing your fair food finds with friends or family. This way, you can sample a wider variety of treats while still enjoying the experience together.

3. Hydration is Important

Stay hydrated by drinking water throughout the day. It’s easy to get caught up in the excitement of fair festivities, but keeping yourself well-hydrated is crucial for a pleasant experience.

4. Exploring New Flavors

Take the opportunity to try unique fair foods you’ve never tasted before. Discovering new flavors and expanding your culinary horizons is part of the joy of attending state fairs.

5. Embracing the Fun

Remember to embrace the festive atmosphere and enjoy the fair beyond just the food. Take part in games, rides, and live performances to create a well-rounded and memorable experience.

7 State Fair Foods You Can Easily Make at Home

State fairs are synonymous with delicious and decadent foods. Recreating these fair favorites at home allows you to enjoy the flavors and excitement of the fair whenever you desire. Let’s dive into the recipes and learn how to make some classic state fair treats.

1. Funnel Cakes

Ingredients:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour

• 2 tablespoons granulated sugar

• 1 teaspoon baking powder

• 1/2 teaspoon salt

• 2 large eggs

• 1 1/2 cups milk

• Vegetable oil, for frying

• Powdered sugar, for dusting

Instructions:

• In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.

• In a separate bowl, whisk together the eggs and milk.

• Gradually pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients, whisking until smooth and well combined.

• Heat the vegetable oil in a deep skillet or pot to approximately 375°F (190°C).

• Using a funnel or a plastic squeeze bottle with a large hole, pour the batter into the hot oil in a circular motion, creating a lacy pattern.

• Fry the funnel cake for about 2 minutes on each side or until golden brown.

• Remove the funnel cake from the oil and drain on a paper towel-lined plate.

• Dust the funnel cake generously with powdered sugar.

• Serve warm and enjoy!

2. Corn Dogs

Ingredients:

• 1 cup yellow cornmeal

• 1 cup all-purpose flour

• 1/4 cup granulated sugar

• 1 tablespoon baking powder

• 1/2 teaspoon salt

• 1 cup milk

• 1/4 cup melted butter

• 1 egg

• Hot dogs

• Vegetable oil, for frying

Instructions:

• In a large bowl, whisk together the cornmeal, flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.

• In a separate bowl, whisk together the milk, melted butter, and egg.

• Gradually pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients, stirring until well combined.

• Insert a wooden skewer or popsicle stick into each hot dog.

• Heat the vegetable oil in a deep skillet or pot to approximately 350°F (175°C).

• Dip each hot dog into the batter, coating it evenly.

• Carefully place the coated hot dogs into the hot oil and fry until golden brown, turning occasionally.

• Remove the corn dogs from the oil and drain on a paper towel-lined plate.

• Serve hot with your favorite condiments.

3. Fried Oreos

Ingredients:

• 1 cup pancake mix

• 2/3 cup milk

• 1 large egg

• Vegetable oil, for frying

• Oreo cookies

• Powdered sugar, for dusting

Instructions:

• In a bowl, whisk together the pancake mix, milk, and egg until smooth.

• Heat the vegetable oil in a deep skillet or pot to approximately 375°F (190°C).

• Dip each Oreo cookie into the batter, making sure it is fully coated.

• Carefully place the coated Oreos into the hot oil and fry until golden brown, turning once.

• Remove the fried Oreos from the oil and drain on a paper towel-lined plate.

• Dust with powdered sugar while still warm.

• Serve and enjoy the crispy, chocolaty goodness!

4. Elephant Ears

Ingredients:

• 1 sheet puff pastry, thawed

• 1/4 cup granulated sugar

• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

Instructions:

• Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

• In a small bowl, combine the sugar and cinnamon.

• Sprinkle some of the cinnamon-sugar mixture onto a clean work surface.

• Unfold the puff pastry sheet onto the cinnamon-sugar mixture, pressing it lightly to adhere.

• Sprinkle more cinnamon-sugar mixture on top of the puff pastry.

• Using a rolling pin, gently roll out the puff pastry to increase its size and ensure the cinnamon-sugar mixture sticks to both sides.

• Fold the puff pastry in half lengthwise and press lightly.

• Cut the puff pastry crosswise into 1/2-inch-wide strips.

• Place the strips onto the prepared baking sheet, leaving some space between them.

• Bake for about 10-12 minutes or until golden brown and crispy.

• Remove from the oven and let cool slightly.

• Serve the elephant ears warm and enjoy the sweet, flaky delight.

5. Fried Pickles

Ingredients:

• 1 cup dill pickle slices, drained

• 1 cup all-purpose flour

• 1 tablespoon paprika

• 1 teaspoon garlic powder

• 1/2 teaspoon salt

• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper

• 1 cup buttermilk

• Vegetable oil, for frying

• Ranch dressing or your preferred dipping sauce

Instructions:

• In a shallow bowl, combine the flour, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper.

• Dip each pickle slice into the buttermilk, allowing the excess to drip off.

• Coat the pickle slice in the flour mixture, pressing lightly to adhere.

• Repeat the dipping and coating process for all the pickle slices.

• Heat the vegetable oil in a deep skillet or pot to approximately 375°F (190°C).

• Fry the coated pickle slices in batches until golden brown and crispy, turning occasionally.

• Remove the fried pickles from the oil and drain on a paper towel-lined plate.

• Serve hot with ranch dressing or your preferred dipping sauce.

6. Mini Donuts

Ingredients:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour

• 1/2 cup granulated sugar

• 2 teaspoons baking powder

• 1/2 teaspoon salt

• 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon

• 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg

• 3/4 cup milk

• 1/4 cup melted butter

• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

• Vegetable oil, for frying

• Powdered sugar, for dusting

Instructions:

• In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg.

• In a separate bowl, combine the milk, melted butter, and vanilla extract.

• Gradually pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients, stirring until just combined.

• Heat the vegetable oil in a deep skillet or pot to approximately 375°F (190°C).

• Drop small spoonfuls of batter into the hot oil, frying the mini donuts until golden brown, turning occasionally.

• Remove the mini donuts from the oil and drain on a paper towel-lined plate.

• Dust with powdered sugar while still warm.

• Serve and enjoy these delightful bite-sized treats!

National State Fair Food Day Dates

Year	Date	Day
2023	July 11	Tuesday
2024	July 11	Thursday
2025	July 11	Friday
2026	July 11	Saturday
2027	July 11	Sunday

National State Fair Food Day Quotes, Wishes & Messages

“Wishing you a delicious and memorable National State Fair Food Day! May your taste buds be delighted with all the amazing treats and snacks!”

“Sending you warm wishes on National State Fair Food Day! Enjoy the mouthwatering flavors, tempting aromas, and the joy of indulging in your favorite fair foods.”

“Happy National State Fair Food Day! May your day be filled with cotton candy clouds, corn dogs of happiness, and funnel cake dreams come true!”

“On this special day, let’s celebrate the joy of indulging in all the deep-fried delights and scrumptious treats of the state fair. Happy National State Fair Food Day!”

“Wishing you a day filled with laughter, fun, and incredible flavors on National State Fair Food Day. Enjoy the unique and delectable dishes that make the fair truly special!”

“Cheers to National State Fair Food Day! May your plate be full of tantalizing treats, your heart be filled with joy, and your memories be flavored with the magic of the fair.”

“As we celebrate National State Fair Food Day, let’s savor the moments of pure culinary bliss and relish in the simple pleasures of indulging in our favorite fair foods.”

“On this delightful occasion, may the aroma of freshly popped popcorn, the sizzle of corn on the cob, and the taste of sugary delights bring you happiness and satisfaction. Happy National State Fair Food Day!”

“Wishing you a day of gastronomic adventures, delightful surprises, and unforgettable flavors on National State Fair Food Day. Enjoy every bite and create memories that will last a lifetime!”

“Let’s raise our forks and celebrate the culinary wonders of the state fair on National State Fair Food Day. May your day be filled with scrumptious bites and delightful moments!”

Conclusion

National State Fair Food Day on July 11th is a delightful celebration of the culinary wonders found at state fairs across the nation. From the enchanting aroma of funnel cakes to the savory crunch of fried pickles, these fair foods bring joy and nostalgia to people of all ages. So mark your calendars and indulge in the delicious treats of the fair, creating lasting memories and savoring every delectable bite.

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