A Day at The Washington State Fair (Puyallup, Washington)
I haven’t really been one for the fair, but this week I couldn’t pass it up. Growing up in Olympia, Washington, most of us have memories of our smaller fair, Lakefair, which happens every summer along Capitol Lake in downtown. But most Washingtonians know about The Washington State Fair (or, “The Puyallup Fair”) in Puyallup, Washington. This fair is next level: Rows upon rows of food vendors, expos and craft fairs, games galore, tons of cute animals, and only the best of the best rides. Take a look:
When my friend Lauren and I first arrived you know we headed straight to the food. I was committed to finding a garden burger and the new addition to the food lineup this year: Glow Teas, a bubble-tea-in-lightbulb-glass place from Seattle! Luckily, Bernies Burgers had the most delicious curly fries and garden burger (I’ve never tasted a fluffier bun!). These stops fueled us up and we were ready to explore.
First up: The horses, sheep, and 4-H dogs. Is it even a fair if it doesn’t have livestock?
Next, we walked through the fair as we planned our next move. We visited the indoor centers with expos - one for commercial businesses and more food vendors (where Lauren proceeded to get a cotton candy pig on a stick - this adorable couple creates amazing animal-shaped art out of sugar! It’s a must-do.), and one for smaller, local craft artisans. We walked by a magician performing on stage, caricature artists sketching, and were finally approaching all the live action.
Then, we were ready to ride & play! Lauren loves the rides and had been wanting to try out the Classic Coaster since the year before, so we patiently waited for an hour or so for the line to die down. After the Coaster commenced, I wanted to see if I could win a prize. I’m a game girly through and through, you’ll never catch me on a ride (not even the ferris wheel! Those days have passed). While I didn’t do too well, I did win a small little s’more plush which I’ve decided to name Svetlana the S’more.
Ah, the quintessential Washington State Fair staple: The Fisher Scones. These delicious fair scones are slathered in jam and cream, freshly made hot at their various spots around the fair, and even come in dozen packs so you can take them home to your family and friends. I’m embarrassed to admit that I don’t think I had tried a Fisher scone prior to this year and DAMN was it good!
We had such a blast at the fair this year and will definitely be back for more in September 2023. :)
