Bloomsburg Fair

     The Bloomsburg fair is not just any old fair. For a cheap admission, you have the opportunity to play all sorts of games, try just about any food, see many different animals in the exhibits, and most importantly, spend quality time with loved ones. The fair was described by one patron as "almost like Christmas, we wait in anticipation every year for the fair, and once it comes its a week full of fun and a small break from the normal work life."

    There is a wide variety of attractions at the fair, but few compare to the Grandstand. While walking through the Grandstand, the sounds of conversation fill your ears with the background of whatever music or event is being held on stage. there are two walking paths through the Grandstand, with vendors on either side selling all sorts of items from novelty trinkets, clothing, and gifts for others. The colorful sights create a sort-of mosaic as the smell of food from outside pulls you through the stand. The Grandstand also offers a variety of captivating performances. Commonly, the fair hosts musical performances from multiple genres of artists, some being local even, providing a nostalgic experience for all who attend. The motorsport and tractor pull events can be heard from around the whole fair, providing a grounding background to all, reminding you that you're at the Bloomsburg Fair. 

 

  The fair instills a very inviting culture, making a great tradition of being family friendly, offering experiences that can make childhood memories and worthwhile family time. Children under 12 years old get admission for free everyday, and those under 18 also can get in for free on certain days. This is a great policy as it allows children from all economic backgrounds to be able to experience the fair, and it gives parents a little less to stress about with the cost of bringing the whole family to the fair. To instill this family oriented culture, the fair also offers a huge assortment of fun games to play and possibly win a toy, stuffed animal, or candy. Walking around the game area is like being a kid in a candy store, constantly bombarded by bright lights, playful nostalgic music, and operators calling for you to come play their game. In addition to games, a dog show full of puppies of many breeds, as well as farm animals like bunnies, cows, pigs, and horse can be seen at a close view, giving a deep and very fun experience for children of all ages. Additionally, the different art exhibits are very special to many as they give the chance for a "personal spotlight" through school related art and things like the science fair, giving some students or their schools a display to be proud of.     

    The west half of the fairgrounds is star-studded with iconic vendors and just about any food you could crave. Walking past Mr. Sticky's, a strong aroma of sweet cinnamon fills the air as friendly faces greet all patrons. The sights and smells offered by walking around some of the iconic spots like Bissinger's apple dumplings, Grotto's pizza, and Vince's cheese steaks give a familiar sense of home unlike any other. Adam Martinez, owner of Sabor Boriken, a new Puerto Rican style food vendor, described his experience starting his first year at the fair. "I get here early in the morning to set up and start making everything, but most of my prep like marinating chicken, chopping ingredients, and preparing skewers is done the night before." For his first year, the menu is limited but business has been good so far and he is looking forward to big developments next year. 

    From the art exhibits, wildlife, large productions, and great food, the fair has something for everyone. It's more than just food and sights, it's a whole experience unlike any other where you can meet new friends and create lifelong memories and traditions.