Glistening colorful lights, rapid roller coasters, Southern food, cuddly farm animals, and unforgettable concerts all announce the arrival of the North Georgia State Fair. The annual celebration’s small-town charm attracted attendees from cities around Georgia, bringing people from all ages to Jim Miller Park.

Excitement filled the park when parents, teenagers, and children stood anxiously in line for rollercoasters, high-flying swings, and ferris wheel rides. Face painting, fun houses, and “Kids win everytime!” games also gave a popular alternative for children not meeting the height requirements.

The eleven days of fair entertainment provided ample opportunities for fun, but burned a hole in attendees’ pockets. Booths staggered around the park made purchasing tickets to experience rides and activities convenient for participants, but cost $1.50 per ticket. However, the option of a $20 stamp allowed attendees to enjoy unlimited rides, which became the preferred choice among fair contributors.

The North Georgia State Fair also provided a variety of food choices. The air approaching the food stands sustained a pleasant aroma of fried chicken and delicious sweet tea for tasting. The roots of Georgia stem from deep fried everything, but Island Noodles provided delectable vegetarian choices. Still, attending a Southern fair without indulging in chicken and waffles? Unheard of.

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Melissa Sagaseta

Gliding through the air on the Swing Tower, spectators could view the surrounding games and passersby underneath their feet. While the lines for the rides became lengthy towards the later half of the fair, the exhilarating experience overcame the long wait. The Wildcat, Cyclops, Mantis, and X-factor rollercoasters became popular attractions at the fair. A mixture of eagerness and dread filled the minds and hearts of the riders, watching the coasters zip by.

Additionally, free entertainment from popular country radio station 94.9 “The Bull” delighted country music lovers. Artists Granger Smith, Scotty McCreery, Frankie Ballard, Jana Kramer, and Georgia natives Zach Seabaugh and Colt Ford made appearances at the fair. The vocals of the country music stars heard throughout the park gave the perfect touch of Southern flair to the crisp autumn nights.

After attending the North Georgia State Fair for the first time, I found myself genuinely wishing I could relive the moments already the next day. The positivity in the air and the rush of adrenaline felt when a rollercoaster slowly approaches the first slope all creates irreplaceable memories for all ages. The North Georgia State Fair will remain just as charming, entertaining, extraordinary, and aesthetically pleasing next fall.

The Chant’s Grade: A