1. Elotes
If you haven’t tried Mexican street corn, you should. While the idea of corn may elicit childhood memories of plain-with-butter and shredded cob bits stuck between your teeth, the savory and spicy Elotes served at the fair are the perfect treat to transition you to fall. At around $5 they’re quite cheap as well!
2. Milk
This isn’t your father’s lactose free stuff. The Milk Bar gives you a cup for just $0.25. They serve regular and chocolate milk, and all of it is made locally. I can’t even describe how good this milk tastes, so grab your pocket change and try it.
3. Deep Fried Oreos
Fairs are known for deep frying everything, and the NY State Fair proves this to be true. While I’m always one for avoiding saturated fat, deep fried Oreos are worth the sacrifice. They are sweet, doughy, with just the right amount of chocolate. A great option for sharing with friends!
4. Funnel Cake
Can you really say you’ve been to the fair without this classic? It’s dough, fried and covered in sugar, with sweet sauces if you’d like. I mean, what’s not to like? Fried dough is a staple across cultures, but personally I think fairs get to the heart of the dish…or at least the arteries.
5. Chocolate Covered Frozen Bananas
Alright, this is just a personal favorite. But on those hot fair days, it’s the perfect treat to cool down. Phallic symbols aside, chocolate frozen bananas are amazing fair fare that are too often forgotten to not put on this list. Vive la Banana!
The State Fair is $10 normally with special low-price days for students. There’s also a free bus to and from the fair via College Place from noon until 10 p.m. on Sept. 1, 2, and 3.! See you there!
Bonus Option: Deep Fried Pickles – Remember how I said you can find anything deep fried? Yup. Pickles. I personally haven’t tried them, and know very few people who have. But, if you’re feeling brave, maybe try it and let me know whether or not it kills you. I already don’t trust pickles, and I especially don’t trust them wrapped in sweet, lovely dough. They must be hiding something.
Article Written By: Erin Elliott ’18, S.I. Newhouse School of Public Communications and the College of Arts and Sciences