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National State Fair Food Day
This year, Food Service Direct will be celebrating the first-ever National State Fair Food Day on July 11. There is much to love about state fairs — the rides, competitions, stalls, and the best part, food! While nothing beats attending a state fair, sometimes we just want to enjoy all the great food without waiting in lines with crowds of people. Instead, you can order state fair food from Food Service Direct, prepare simple recipes, and enjoy fried and delicious food straight out of the oven.
Check out the State Fair Food section at Food Service Direct and bring the fairgrounds to your backyard this summer with easy-to-follow recipes of classic state fair foods. Whatever your food needs are, wherever you are, Food Service Direct has you covered — build your unique menu today.
History of National State Fair Food Day
State fairs are a summer staple. Taking place once a year, people flock to the fairgrounds to enjoy the stalls, livestock, rides, and gifts. But let’s be honest, it’s all about the fried and delicious food, on sticks, and otherwise. The food is memorable and we look forward to enjoying it again all year long. Some of the best state foods include corn dogs, cotton candy, funnel cakes, deep-fried cookies, cheese on a stick, and chicken wings.
The first U.S. state fair was held in Syracuse, New York in 1841, and has been running successfully every year since. The second state fair was in Detroit, Michigan, which ran annually from 1849 to 2009.
Originally, state fairs were a display and celebration of the country’s agriculture; the produce, crops, and the growers who worked dedicatedly to cultivate a successful harvest. It highlighted the agricultural pride of each state, its local vendors, and regional foodways. As the structure of the country gradually shifted from agrarian to industrial, state fairs evolved to include music, amusement rides, games, and more industrial products.
But why wait for the state fair every year when you can enjoy the mouthwatering state fair food at home? Food Service Direct has you covered with everything you’ll need — from supplies to ingredients, for recreating foods-on-a-stick, cultural dishes, over-the-top desserts, and more. It’s the choice marketplace for local distributors and large manufacturers, offering a vast variety of food and related products for creating tasty meals.
National State Fair Food Day timeline
15,000 B.C.
The Beginning of the Hospitality Industry
The ancient Lascaux caves in France are used to provide accommodation for other tribes.
19th Century
The Beginning of State Fairs
State fairs are organized to display and promote state agriculture, livestock, and farm products.
20th Century
A Shift Occurs
As societies shift from agrarian to industrial, modern state fairs expand with the addition of amusement rides, exhibitions of industrial products, entertainment, and more.
July 11, 2022
The First Celebration
Initiated by Food Service Direct, the first-ever National State Fair Food Day is celebrated.
2022 State Fair Food Index Key Stats
Methodology
Food Service Direct, the first food-focused online marketplace, executed a survey in July 2022 with 2,051 adults from all 50 U.S States. To discover how U.S. consumers love state fair food the most, what are their favorite state fair food items, and how it impacts their enjoyment and quality of life.
*Fairgoer is somebody who has gone to a state fair at least twice.
State Fair Food Favorites
#1 Fries
75% of the fairgoers in Maine always get fries at the State Fair, followed by 70% of the fairgoers in Pennsylvania.
#2 Corn Dogs
50% of the fairgoers in Arkansas and Texas always get Corn Dogs at the State Fair, followed by 45% of the fairgoers in Idaho.
#3 Roast Corn
43% of the fairgoers in Florida always get Roast Corn at the State Fair, followed by 40% of the fairgoers in New Mexico and Wisconsin.
Desserts
#1 Funnel Cake
83% of the fairgoers in Mississippi and Arkansas always get Funnel Cake at the State Fair, followed by 80% of fairgoers in Oklahoma.
#2 Cotton Candy
43% of the fairgoers in Vermont always get Cotton Candy at the State Fair, followed by 60% of the fairgoers in Mississippi.
#3 Snowcone
45% of the fairgoers in Mississippi always get Snow cones at the State Fair, followed by 40% of the fairgoers in Florida, Missouri, and South Carolina.
National State Fair Food Day FAQs
What is the most popular state fair food?
Some of the most popular state fair foods are deep-fried Oreos, fried chicken in a waffle cone, deep-fried Snickers bars, pizza cones, and cotton candy.
What is a state fair?
A state fair is an annual display of the best of a state’s local produce and products, as well as a recreational gathering for people in the U.S.
What is the most popular state fair?
The State Fair of Texas attracts a staggering 2.25 million visitors every year, making it the largest state fair in the country.
How To Celebrate National State Fair Food Day
Order your favorite state fair foodsHead over to Food Service Direct’s website. Browse and order from their large variety of state fair foods.
Try new recipesRecreate state fair foods by following different recipes. You won’t miss out on anything!
Host a state fair partyInvite your friends and family to a backyard state fair gathering. Include your favorite state fair food on the menu, and include games and other activities.
5 State Fair Foods You Can Easily Make At Home
Corn dogsCorn dogs on a stick can easily be made at home, and our pro-tip is to dunk the dogs in a tall jar full of batter for an even coating.
No-fry fried ice creamEnjoy the great taste with a crispy cinnamon coating, minus the oily mess.
Deep-fried cookiesA true indulgence that is a hit with kids especially.
Turkey legsThe best marinade for turkey legs or any other state fair meat dish is available at Food Service Direct.
State fair lemonadeSip on this thirst-quenching beverage, close your eyes, and imagine you’re at the state fair.
Why We Love National State Fair Food Day
For the love of foodWe at National Today love food holidays best. And if it is a day that celebrates countless well-loved dishes? We just can’t contain our excitement.
Bringing state fair food to your kitchenWhy not enjoy great state fair food in the comfort of your home without having to stand in sweltering temperatures and long queues. We are all for it.
Services making life easierFood Service Direct is dedicated to making the distribution of food easier for home cooks, chefs, food vendors, manufacturers, and event planners. With everything you could possibly need for creating culinary delights under one roof, what’s not to love?
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Wortgeschichte Nr. 135: Chilbi und Knabenschiessen
Landauf, landab finden besonders im Spätsommer und Frühherbst die Chilbenen oder Chilbinen statt – Jahrmärkte mit einem (wie man in Deutschland sagt) Rummelplatz. Dieses Wort lässt kaum mehr erkennen, was dahintersteckt: Es ist Chilch-Wîhi, also «Kirchweihe». In fast allen Deutschschweizer Mundarten wurde das Grundwort Wîhi aber zu -wi verkürzt und das inlautende -ch- ist fast überall geschwunden, womit das Wort nun Chilwi hiess. In alten Texten ist «kilwi» verbreitet zu finden; heute hat es sich auf die Urschweiz zurückgezogen. In einem weiteren Schritt hat sich nämlich aus -lw- ein -lb- entwickelt (wie auch das schriftdeutsche «gelb» aus einen mittelhochdeutschen gelw- entstanden ist), womit wir bei «durchschnittsschweizerdeutschem» Chilbi gelandet sind. Die eigentliche Bedeutung war «Weihe einer neuen Kirche». Gewöhnlich verstand man dann aber «jährliches Gedächtnisfest der Weihe einer Kirche (oder eines Altars)» darunter. Dieses Gedächtnisfest hat sich indes nach und nach verselbständigt, sodass die heutigen Chilbenen kaum mehr an dem Datum gefeiert werden, an dem die Kirche oder der Altar einst geweiht worden war – das Wort bedeutete je länger je mehr einfach «Jahrmarkt» und noch jünger schlicht «Rummelplatz». Bei der grössten aller Schweizer Chilbenen ist der historische Zusammenhang aber noch zu erahnen: Das Zürcher Knabenschiessen findet nicht zufällig am zweiten Septemberwochenende statt, sondern es setzt das alte Patronatsfest des Grossmünsters fort, das in vorreformatorischer Zeit Felix und Regula geweiht war – und deren Tag ist der 11. September. Chilbenen waren schon im Mittelalter beliebt, und man besuchte gerne alle möglichen, selbst wenn sie weit entfernt waren. An die «kylby zuo Basel» am Sebastianstag 1521 «komen die von Ury, Schwitz und Lutzern mitsampt ettlichen zuogewantten by hundert manen». Dabei wurde so viel gegessen, dass ein Kritiker 1601 schrieb, die Chilbenen seien «reine Buchfest», also Bauchfeste. Das tüchtige Feiern bereitete der Obrigkeit natürlich immer wieder Sorge: 1540 ärgerte sich die Schaffhauser Synode etwa, dass «die frömbden kilchwihinen [...] mit unzüchtigem dantzen, spilen, trincken et cetera» begangen würden. Spiele und Wettkämpfe waren ebenfalls ein fester Bestandteil – darunter häufig das Armbrustschiessen. Andernorts ging es ziviler zu und her, so kannte man im Luzerner Hinterland das Chääszänne: Wer die ulkigste Grimasse schneiden konnte, bekam als Belohnung ein Stück Käse. Ein weiterer Chilbibrauch war ebenda das Chäässtäche, an dem die Teilnehmer mit verbundenen Augen mit einem Säbel auf einen Käse einstechen mussten. Um aber Mord- und Totschlag zu verhindern, wurde den Besuchern sonst befohlen, ihre Waffen zu Hause lassen; so bestimmte der Zürcher Rat 1418, «daz nieman, wer der ist, mit enkeiner wery an und uff enhein kilwi gan sol». Zum Schluss noch einmal zum Knabenschiessen, dem heute alle Chnaabeschüüsse sagen und über das man witzelt, dass hier Knaben erschossen würden. Das kommt davon, wenn die Zürcher und Zürcherinnen nicht mehr wissen, dass dieser Anlass eigentlich richtig Chnaabeschüüsset heisst! Ein Schüüsset oder Schiesset ist ein Anlass, an dem geschossen wird. Und das Knabenschiessen, Pardon: der Knabenschiesset war einst eine vormilitärische Waffenübung der Zürcher Jugend. Versüsst wird die Teilnahme nicht erst heute mit Gaben: 1692 war der höchste Preis «ein Taler mit drei silbernen Kettemlein», und jeder Teilnehmer erhielt zumindest ein «silbernes Ringlein, dardurch ein weis und blau Dafetband als der Statt Ehrenfarb gezogen». Heute erhält der Schützenkönig oder die Schützenkönigin von der Kantonalbank 5000 Franken, und alle, die teilgenommen haben, bekommen von derselben 20 Franken plus einen Franken je geschossenen Punkt auf ihr Jugendkonto gutgeschrieben. Der Nutzen hat sich also vom Staat (schiesstüchtige Jungmannschaft) auf dessen Bank (neue Kunden) verschoben ... (CL)
National Ferris Wheel Day
Ferris wheels have always been associated with childhood; it’s no surprise how loved they are around the world, as people who aren’t afraid of heights get to see the horizon of the world around them.
Ferris wheels, however, are a most recent invention over the past 200 years. That’s why National Ferris Wheel Day exists! National Ferris Wheel Day is all about teaching people the history and cultural significance of this magnificent machine.
Learn about National Ferris Wheel Day
National Ferris Wheel Day has been designed to honor George Washington Gale Ferris, Jr, who is, of course, the inventor of the Ferris Wheel! We’re sure that most people reading this have fond memories of going on a Ferris Wheel, whether at a theme park or at a tourist attraction. Ferris Wheels are a lot of fun, coming in different sizes and enabling us to see for miles and miles! You may have even had your first kiss on a Ferris Wheel!
Since the Ferris Wheel has been invented, there have been some incredible Ferris Wheels built around the world. This includes Canada’s Niagara Skywheel, which enables you to look over the Niagara Falls. It’s truly breathtaking. You also have The London Eye, which looks over London’s Thames River. Another famous Ferris Wheel is the Tianjin Eye Ferris Wheel in Tianjin, China. What makes this Ferris Wheel so spectacular is the fact that is erected over a bridge that spans the Hair River. There are so many incredible Ferris Wheels, so we definitely recommend doing a bit of digging online on this day. You could even make a bucket list of Ferris Wheels that you would like to visit!
History of National Ferris Wheel Day
George Washington Gale Ferris invented the Ferris wheel in 1893 when at age 33, he introduced his invention to the World’s Columbian Exposition.
This exhibition was also known as the Chicago World’s Fair, where people at the time were celebrating the 400th anniversary of Columbus’ landing in the New World. When people saw it for the first time, they immediately saw it as the United States’ version of the Effiel Tower.
Ferris’s creation stood at an enormous 260 feet high, with 36 cars encased with glass and locked doors, and weighed in at a total 26,000 pounds. After the exhibition, the Ferris wheel ran from June until October 1863. It wasn’t until 1894 that the Ferris wheel got taken down completely.
The dismantled part of the Ferris wheel was actually made into good use; During World War I, the scraps were used to make battleships, specifically the U.S.S Illinois. Now, Ferris wheels are everywhere, from carnivals, festivals, and can be seen at any kind of celebration.
This holiday honors his birthday as well as his invention. People celebrate this holiday by taking the time to ride the Ferris wheel and feel the wonder and excitement that comes from it.
Some make it a lover’s date, as it is the perfect place to gain some intimacy. Others come with their friends and family to take part in the event and some just take the time to learn about the different kinds of Ferris wheels around the world, which is fun in its own right.
How to Celebrate National Ferris Wheel Day
Head to your closest fairground, theme park, or showground and go straight to the Ferris wheel for some awesome fun! Bring your friends, family or lover with you when you go, and make it a date.
The theme parks that have been built over the years are truly incredible. If you plan ahead of time, you can make sure that National Ferris Wheel Day is one to remember by visiting one of the most thrilling theme parks in your area. Not only will you be able to go on a Ferris Wheel but there will be plenty of other rides for you to enjoy as well, from rollercoasters to dark rides and themed experiences. There is something for everyone!
Take some time to learn about the ingenuity involved with inventing the Ferris wheel, and look up all the most well-known Ferris wheels from around the world. Host a party and make the theme all about Ferris wheels.
You can also take some time to learn about the different facts associated with Ferris Wheels. If you take a look online, you will see that there are some really interesting facts. For example, did you know that the largest Ferris wheel in the world is found in Las Vegas? It is called the High Roller and it is 550 feet tall! You can also look up some of the more classic Ferris Wheels. For example, there is the Wonder Wheel of Coney Island. This Ferris Wheel has been standing for over 100 years now and it was constructed by the Eccentric Ferris Wheel Company. You’ll find it in New York.
Of course, the day has been chosen because it is the same date as the birthday of the inventor, George Washington Gale Ferris Jr. So, why not learn a bit more about him? A civil engineer, born in Galesburg, Illinois, George is known for the Ferris wheel concept and the original Chicago Ferris Wheel. He lived a short life, dying at the age of 37-years-old. This was shortly after the death of his father. Both died of typhoid fever. Despite having a short life, George Washington Gale Ferris Jr. certainly achieved a lot, and you will find a lot of interesting reads about his achievements.
If you’re an avid collector, start collecting antiques associated with Ferris wheels and help share your love of Ferris wheels with your friends.
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Carousel Day
When we think of carousels, we think of the beautifully designed horses, with golden metal poles mounted down the center and accompanied by circus music. Since the early 1800’s, carousels are all about the children, laughing as they go round and round and have been a huge part of American history.
While there are many designs to carousels, the idea of a carousel has been around for centuries before America even existed. So, to observe the fine-tuned history of carousels, Carousel Day is a day just for that! So strap in and enjoy the ride on an American pastime.
Learn about Carousel Day
The purpose of Carousel Day is to honor this incredible invention. This is one of the most instantly recognizable fairground and amusement park rides. A carousel, which is also known as a merry-go-round, is a sort of amusement ride, which consists of a circular platform that rotates and has seats for riders. Traditionally, these seats would be wooden horses or other animals. However, we have seen different themed carousels pop up over the world.
Some of the world’s most magical carousels can be found at:
The Musée des Arts Forains at the Pavillons de Bercy in Paris
Wisconsin’s House on the Rock
Jane’s Carousel in Brooklyn, New York
The Stoomcarrousel in Efteling, Netherlands
These carousels are special for different reasons. Jane’s Carousel is housed in a glass box, providing amazing urban views of New York. The Stoomcarrousel, on the other hand, is a much older carousel, which celebrates steam power. It was built in 1895, and it traveled around many places until an amusement park in Efteling purchased it in 1956. These are just a few of the incredible carousels you can find all over the world, and so we definitely recommend doing a bit of digging online. You will be amazed by some of the stunning and magical carousels that are situated around the world.
History of Carousel Day
In order to understand the history of Carousel Day, we need to understand the history of the carousel. One of the first conceptual designs for a carousel was in 500 A.D. in the Byzantine Empire, which depicts baskets, carrying riders, suspended from a central pole.
This was an activity that needed excellent horsemanship and skill. In fact, the word carousel comes from the word ‘garosello,’ which is Italian, and the word ‘carosella,’ which is Spanish. It means ‘little battle.’ This was used by crusaders as a description of the combat preparation exercises and games that were played by the Arabian and Turkish horsemen during the 12th century.
There were carousels being created and operated at a number of different gatherings and fairs in England and Central Europe in the early 18th century. However, it was not until the 1840s when Franz Wiesenoffer created the first merry-go-round in the United States in Hessville, Ohio. Unfortunately, though. He did not patent the design, and so he’s not officially credited as the creator.
Then, Bette Largent, President of the National Carousel Association, and carousel historian, Ronald Hopkins founded National Merry-Go-Round Day in 2014. Also called Carousel Day, it was formed to honor William Schneider of Davenport, Iowa who, due to patenting the carousel in 1871, is considered the official inventor of the modern carousel by the U.S. Patent Office.
The National Carousel Association, operating since 1973, aims to keep carousels running and preserve their history in the United States. Since then, the NCA tracks the history of carousels all around the United States in its census. The NCA is a non-profit organization and accepts donations to help keep carousel history alive.
The NCA also has a census, a giant data collection of carousels all over North America, keeping track of vintage and modern carousels, as well as repairing old carousels to keep them functioning. Every year, the NCA hosts a convention called The New England Carousel Revolution, where people travel around in buses all over the New England area to check out vintage carousels in parks, museums, and boardwalks.
How to celebrate Carousel Day
According to the NCA census, there are hundreds of registered carousels in the United States. In fact, chances are there is a carousel hiding your neighborhood just waiting to be discovered. Celebrate this holiday with a visit to your local fair by checking the national census on the NCA’s webpage.
Also, check your local area for county fairs or amusement parks and head on out there. If you’re interested in learning more about the history of your local carousel, find out by contacting your local directors and asking them about it. Take your kids to the local fair, or if you don’t have kids, ride one yourself. Go out there and have fun!
If you’re looking for a way to celebrate Carousel Day from the comfort of your own home, why not watch the film Carousel? This is a 1956 musical movie, which is based on a musical from 1945 that had the same name.
A lot of critics have stated that this musical contains the most beautiful songs that have been created by Rodgers and Hammerstein. For those who are unaware, Rodgers and Hammerstein refer to a duo of the lyricist-dramatist Oscar Hammerstein II and composer Richard Rodgers. The story is about a handsome, macho, and rough-talking carousel barker, called Billy Bigelow, and an innocent and young mill worker, Julie Jordan.
The plot is one of the most serious storylines found in a musical by Rodgers and Hammerstein, as you go on a journey of love and heartbreak. It is a great film to watch, and it has received a lot of positive reviews, so why not celebrate Carousel Day by getting the popcorn in and watching this movie?
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Clouds (No. 184)
Lake Lucerne, Switzerland
Clouds (No. 76)
Lucerne