Finer Fair Food Offerings

Nothing embodies summer more than a county fair: with greasy food, activities, crowds of folks and open air—fun with friends is practically guaranteed. Having food limitations such as allergies, restricted diet and exclusions, however, can damper the merriment. But don’t fret, fellow picky eaters, I ate my way through this year’s OC Fair, and you can too! Here’s how.

Upcoming local fairs you won’t want to miss:

OC Fair (Costa Mesa): July 16 – August 15, open Wed. – Sun. (see site for hours)

L.A. County Fair (Pomona): September 4 – October 3, open daily. (see site for hours)

Arrive Prepared

Check out the fair’s downloadable food guide before you hop on the road. Identify which food stands provide your kind of eats and know where they are located on the map. Don’t see anything that suits your palate? Pack your own healthy snacks!

Save Dough

Before you go, take a peek at the fair’s online coupons. You may save coin on food, beverages and activities!

Don’t Eat It? Still Enjoy It!

Fair food is just another term for gluttony on a stick. For the past few years Fried Coca-Cola has been popping up around the county. But here in southern California, that’s just not greasy enough. Have you ever tried Deep-Fried Butter? You can’t miss it at the OC Fair’s aptly named eatery, Heart Attack Café. Perhaps you’re in the mood for something meatier, in which case the massive 5-pound burger with “colossal” curly fries is looking good. Or maybe even the Krispy Kreme Chicken Sandwich might whet your appetite. Even if you never touch the stuff, watching others indulge is nearly as satisfying!

Know Your Perfect Meal

As for me, I was completely satisfied with a vegetarian burrito (made vegan) and a fresh fruit basket from Terri’s Berries. No antacids required.

Photos via Emily Goldstone