1. Cow Chip Throwing (Kansas)
Cow chip throwing is an oddly popular event in Kansas. Participants are challenged to throw dried cow dung as far as they can. The tradition dates back to when early settlers used cow patties as frisbees or makeshift tools. Nowadays, it’s a competitive sport, with even professional competitions happening during county fairs.
While it might sound gross, cow chip throwing is a great way to celebrate rural life and bring some humor into the fair. There are even official records for how far someone can throw a cow chip, with some reaching impressive distances. It’s a unique tradition that has persisted as a way of embracing local culture with a bit of fun.
2. Bed Races (Ohio)
In the small town of Troy, Ohio, one of the most unusual traditions at their county fair is the bed race. Teams of people race in beds on wheels, complete with participants running beside or pushing the bed while trying to finish the course as fast as possible. The idea started in the 1970s as a quirky way to raise money for local charities and has since become a beloved event. The race usually involves themed costumes and plenty of laughs along the way.
The bed race is a perfect example of how county fairs bring out the spirit of community and creativity. It’s not about how fast you go, but how entertaining the race is for spectators. The event often includes obstacles and challenges, making it a true test of teamwork and coordination. It’s fun to watch and even more fun to be a part of if you’re willing to get a little silly.
3. Pig Wrestling (Minnesota)
Pig wrestling is a bizarre event that has taken place at county fairs for decades. In this competition, participants jump into a muddy pit and attempt to catch a slippery pig—no easy feat! The tradition likely started as a way to show off strength and agility, with local farmers challenging each other. Over time, it has turned into a fun spectacle for fairgoers, with people cheering for their favorite pig wrestlers.
While some might find it a bit ridiculous, it’s a great way to raise money for charity and support local 4-H clubs. The pigs, of course, are treated well and are not harmed during the event. Pig wrestling has become an iconic and wild tradition that’s hard to miss if you’re at a Minnesota county fair. It’s not your average sporting event, and that’s what makes it so uniquely entertaining.
4. The Human Cannonball (South Dakota)
At the Brown County Fair in Aberdeen, South Dakota, they take the concept of a carnival stunt to the extreme with the human cannonball act. This tradition has been thrilling crowds for decades, as a brave volunteer gets launched from a giant cannon into a safety net. While it may sound like a one-off circus trick, it’s actually a highly organized performance with trained professionals. The human cannonball is a crowd favorite that draws attention from people all over the region.
Although it’s definitely a wild tradition, the human cannonball act is also a testament to the creativity and daredevil spirit of county fairs. The act is not just for entertainment; it also takes careful planning and the perfect timing to ensure safety. It adds a sense of excitement to the fair, offering something totally unexpected for attendees. For those looking for thrills, it’s a must-see event.
5. Anvil Tossing (Oregon)
At the Oregon State Fair, one of the most unexpected events is the anvil tossing competition. Instead of the typical heavy lifting or strength challenges, participants here throw actual anvils as far as they can. This tradition dates back to the 1930s when local blacksmiths would challenge each other to see who could throw an anvil the farthest. While the competition itself is rooted in history, it has become a quirky but iconic fair event.
Anvil tossing isn’t just about throwing a heavy metal object; it’s a celebration of strength, tradition, and the hardworking folks of Oregon. Spectators get a chance to witness some serious feats of strength as competitors toss these surprisingly heavy tools across the fairgrounds. It’s a unique way to showcase local talent and add an element of surprise to the fair. If you’ve never seen an anvil thrown, it’s definitely a spectacle to remember.
6. Churning Butter Contest (Iowa)
In Iowa, one of the most unusual traditions at county fairs is the butter-churning contest. Contestants must churn their own butter from scratch, competing to see who can create the smoothest and most flavorful batch in a limited amount of time. This contest celebrates Iowa’s agricultural roots and pays homage to the importance of dairy farming in the state’s economy. The skill of butter churning is passed down through generations, often as part of family traditions.
The event is both fun and educational, reminding visitors about how much effort goes into the foods we take for granted. It’s not just about speed, but about the quality of the butter produced and the technique used. Sometimes, there are even variations where the butter is flavored with herbs or other local ingredients. For anyone looking to learn about the old-fashioned ways of food preparation, this is one tradition that shouldn’t be missed.
7. Baby Calf Scramble (Texas)
At the Texas State Fair, the Baby Calf Scramble is one of the most unique and chaotic events you’ll find. Kids aged 6 to 18 are released into a pen with young calves, and their mission is to catch one and lead it to a designated area. The scramble is an opportunity for kids to gain experience with livestock while learning about the importance of ranching and farming. It’s a fun and messy event that never fails to entertain the crowd.
Though it sounds like a simple game, the Baby Calf Scramble actually provides valuable skills for kids interested in farming and animal care. It also creates a fun and lighthearted atmosphere for families at the fair. Watching kids chase down energetic calves can be both hilarious and heartwarming. It’s an event that combines tradition, education, and plenty of laughs.
8. Watermelon Seed Spitting Contest (Michigan)
The Watermelon Seed Spitting Contest at the Michigan State Fair is a fan favorite that draws large crowds each year. Participants gather to see who can spit a watermelon seed the furthest, with a bit of friendly competition at play. This quirky event has become a staple of summer fairs, symbolizing the fun and nostalgia of enjoying a juicy watermelon on a hot day. The tradition likely began informally among kids and evolved into a competitive sport.
What’s interesting about the watermelon seed spitting contest is that it has a surprisingly serious following. Some people practice all year long to perfect their spitting technique, and there are even state and national competitions for the event. It’s an entertaining way to embrace the sillier side of fair traditions, reminding everyone that it’s okay to have fun and not take things too seriously. It’s one of those events you have to see to believe!
9. Frog Jumping Contest (California)
In Calaveras County, California, the Frog Jumping Contest is an event so famous that it’s been immortalized in literature. Inspired by Mark Twain’s short story The Celebrated Jumping Frog of Calaveras County, the event sees frogs racing to see who can jump the furthest. Contestants bring their best frogs to the fair, where they compete in heats until one frog leaps its way to victory. It’s a nod to the region’s history and the quirky, competitive spirit of rural America.
The frog jumping tradition has become a beloved part of Calaveras County’s identity. The event draws tourists from around the world, eager to see the famous frogs in action. In addition to the race, there’s often a carnival atmosphere with frog-related games and food. It’s a fun, lighthearted tradition that celebrates local culture in the most unexpected way.
10. Turtle Races (Florida)
At the Sarasota County Fair in Florida, turtle races have become a popular and slightly strange tradition. Participants choose a turtle to race, and the turtles are placed in a large arena where they race to the finish line. The turtles don’t exactly run, but they do their best to make it to the end of the course, much to the delight of spectators. This quirky event is part of Florida’s dedication to celebrating the strange and unique aspects of their state.
While turtle racing might not sound like the most thrilling sport, it’s surprisingly competitive. People often root for their chosen turtle as if they were cheering for a top athlete. The event is more about fun and community than winning, and it’s a great way to introduce kids to the idea of friendly competition. If you’ve ever seen a turtle make a mad dash (well, sort of), you know it’s an experience that will stick with you.
11. Pumpkin Chucking (Colorado)
Pumpkin chucking is the perfect example of why county fairs in Colorado are always full of surprises. Contestants take giant pumpkins and launch them using catapults, slingshots, or even air cannons to see who can send them the furthest. This explosive event started as a fun way to see how far people could send pumpkins, and now it’s grown into a competitive sport with real bragging rights. The pumpkins often explode on impact, adding a satisfying visual element to the event.
While the competition is serious, the atmosphere is lighthearted and full of excitement. It’s a great way for families to spend the day together, watching pumpkins soar through the air. The pumpkins, of course, are often donated after the competition to local farms for composting. This event shows how county fairs turn ordinary objects, like pumpkins, into an opportunity for fun and creativity.
12. Squirrel Appreciation Day (Missouri)
Squirrel Appreciation Day at the Missouri State Fair is a tradition unlike any other. On this day, fairgoers come together to celebrate all things squirrels, including squirrel-themed contests, games, and even a squirrel look-alike competition. The event highlights the small yet resilient creatures that are so common in the area and gives them a spotlight they usually don’t get. It’s a quirky tribute to wildlife and the connection between humans and nature.
While the idea of an entire day dedicated to squirrels may seem strange, it’s actually a charming and fun tradition. Visitors often dress up as squirrels or create squirrel-themed art to display. The event promotes local wildlife appreciation and encourages people to learn more about the creatures in their own backyards. It’s a perfect example of how county fairs can turn the everyday into something special and memorable.
