The aroma of sizzling sausages, the sugary scent of funnel cakes, and the joyful shouts from carnival games – it’s Bloomsburg Fair time again! For over a century and a half, this iconic Pennsylvania tradition has drawn crowds from far and wide, offering a delightful blend of agricultural exhibits, thrilling rides, live entertainment, and, of course, an astonishing array of food. But with so many tempting treats vying for your attention, where do you even begin your culinary journey?
The Bloomsburg Fair is more than just a regional event; it’s a cultural phenomenon, a celebration of community, and a showcase of local talent. Spanning over two hundred acres, this enormous fairground becomes a bustling city of temporary stalls, each offering its own unique version of fair food classics and innovative creations. Navigating this gastronomic landscape can be overwhelming, so consider this your personal map to the best food at Bloomsburg Fair.
This article is your insider’s guide to the must-try foods that will elevate your Bloomsburg Fair experience from simply enjoyable to absolutely unforgettable. From perfectly crisp corn dogs to melt-in-your-mouth fudge, and from award-winning pies to deep-fried delicacies you never knew existed, we’ll reveal the hidden gems and time-tested favorites that will satisfy every craving.
From our experience, classic fair food is essential and needs to be done just right.
Classic Fair Food Elevated
The foundation of any great fair experience lies in its classic comfort foods. These are the dishes that evoke nostalgia, bring back childhood memories, and simply taste delicious. But not all corn dogs are created equal, and some funnel cakes rise far above the rest. Here’s where to find the best versions of the staples.
The Corn Dog
Let’s start with that iconic hand-dipped fair staple, the Corn Dog. The secret to a truly great corn dog lies in the quality of both the dog and the batter. Look for a vendor that uses premium hot dogs, preferably all-beef, known for their flavor and snap. The batter should be light, crispy, and golden brown, not greasy or heavy. A hint of sweetness in the batter complements the savory flavor of the hot dog perfectly. We recommend stopping by “Cody’s Corn Dogs,” located near the main entrance. Their batter is always perfectly golden and crispy, and they use a high-quality hot dog that is consistently delicious. Don’t forget the mustard!
The Funnel Cake
Next, no trip to the Bloomsburg Fair is complete without indulging in a Funnel Cake. This deep-fried masterpiece is a blank canvas for a variety of toppings. While powdered sugar is the traditional choice, don’t be afraid to experiment with fresh fruit, whipped cream, chocolate sauce, or even ice cream. The key is to find a vendor that makes their funnel cakes fresh to order, ensuring a light and airy texture. “Funnel Cake Fantasy,” near the midway, consistently receives high marks for its fresh, fluffy funnel cakes and generous topping portions. Their strawberry shortcake funnel cake, with fresh strawberries, whipped cream, and a drizzle of strawberry sauce, is a particular crowd-pleaser.
French Fries
Of course, you can’t forget the humble but delicious French Fries. The debate over fresh-cut versus frozen fries is a heated one, but we lean towards fresh-cut. The potato flavor is simply superior, and the texture is more satisfying. Look for vendors that use high-quality potatoes, fry them in clean oil, and offer a variety of seasonings and dipping sauces. “Fry Guys,” a long-standing Bloomsburg Fair vendor, is known for its perfectly crispy, fresh-cut fries. They offer a wide selection of seasonings, from classic salt and pepper to more adventurous options like Cajun spice and garlic parmesan. Their cheese sauce is also a must-try.
Lemonade or Iced Tea
To wash down all that deliciousness, you are going to need a Lemonade or Iced Tea. Look for fresh-squeezed lemonade stands. They are sure to have that refreshing flavor you need. We suggest “Lemonade Larrys” for a delicious lemon drink.
Unique and Unexpected Eats
Beyond the classics, the Bloomsburg Fair offers a surprising array of unique and unexpected culinary delights. These are the dishes that will surprise your taste buds, challenge your expectations, and leave you wanting more.
Grandma Betty’s Pierogies: A Bloomsburg Fair Tradition
For many, the trip is not complete until you visit “Grandma Betty’s Pierogies: A Bloomsburg Fair Tradition.” For generations, Grandma Betty has been serving up her famous homemade pierogies, filled with creamy mashed potatoes, tangy sauerkraut, and savory cheese. They are pan-fried to golden perfection and served with a dollop of sour cream and a sprinkle of chives. Her pierogies are a true taste of Pennsylvania heritage.
Deep-Fried Delights
What is a fair without the opportunity to try something deep-fried? Are you adventurous? Then you have to try the Deep-Fried Delights. The Bloomsburg Fair is known for its deep-fried innovations. From deep-fried Oreos to deep-fried Snickers bars to deep-fried pickles, there’s no limit to the culinary creativity. “Deep-Fried Dreams,” located near the livestock exhibits, is a popular destination for deep-fried enthusiasts. Their deep-fried Oreos are a particular favorite, with a warm, gooey center and a crispy chocolate shell.
Gourmet Grilled Cheese
You might think a grilled cheese sandwich is simple, but at the fair, it can be so much more! Check out “Cheese Please” for the best Gourmet Grilled Cheese around. “Cheese Please” will elevate your expectations. They offer a variety of gourmet grilled cheese sandwiches featuring artisan cheeses, locally sourced ingredients, and creative flavor combinations. Their brie and apple grilled cheese, with melted brie cheese, thinly sliced apples, and a drizzle of honey, is a sophisticated and satisfying treat.
Ethnic Food Options
And let us not forget the various Ethnic Food Options! The Bloomsburg Fair is a melting pot of culinary traditions, with vendors offering a wide range of ethnic cuisines. From Greek gyros to Mexican tacos to Italian pasta, there’s something for every palate. Keep an eye out for smaller, family-run vendors who are passionate about sharing their cultural heritage through food.
Sweet Treats and Decadent Desserts
After exploring the savory side of the Bloomsburg Fair, it’s time to indulge in some sweet treats and decadent desserts. From creamy ice cream to rich fudge, these are the perfect way to end your culinary adventure on a high note.
Ice Cream
What is better than fresh ice cream made locally? You should search for the Ice Cream stands featuring local dairies. Pennsylvania is known for its dairy farms, and many of them have a presence at the Bloomsburg Fair. Look for vendors offering homemade ice cream with fresh, locally sourced ingredients. “Clover Farms Dairy” is a perennial favorite, with a wide range of classic and creative flavors. Their Pennsylvania Dutch Chocolate ice cream is a must-try, with a rich, creamy chocolate flavor that is simply irresistible.
Caramel Apples
And you can’t forget that classic fair dessert: Caramel Apples. These are available at many spots around the fair. Look for vendors offering a variety of toppings, from nuts and sprinkles to chocolate chips and crushed candy. “Apple Delights” is known for its high-quality caramel and generous toppings. Their peanut butter cup caramel apple, dipped in rich caramel and coated in crushed peanut butter cups, is a decadent treat.
Fudge
Another oldie but goodie is Fudge. Fudge is a simple treat and a wonderful dessert when done right. The fair has multiple vendors, each with a wide selection of flavors. “Fudge Fantasy” stands out with its creamy texture and rich flavor. Their chocolate peanut butter fudge is a particular favorite, with a perfect balance of sweet and salty flavors.
Homemade Pies and Baked Goods
If you are more of a pie person, then you need to look for Homemade Pies and Baked Goods from the award-winning bakers that have a presence at the fair. Be sure to arrive early, as these treats tend to sell out quickly. If you see a pie made from a local fruit, we recommend you give it a try!
Practical Tips for Eating at the Fair
Now that you know what to eat, here are a few practical tips for navigating the Bloomsburg Fair’s food scene:
Bring Cash
Remember to bring Cash. While some vendors may accept credit cards, many are still cash-only. Save yourself the hassle of searching for an ATM by bringing plenty of cash with you.
Pace Yourself
It is easy to over eat at a fair! Remember to Pace Yourself. With so many tempting treats, it’s easy to overeat. Pace yourself, share dishes with friends, and take breaks to walk around and enjoy the other attractions.
Look for Long Lines (Sometimes)
Sometimes, you need to Look for Long Lines (Sometimes). A long line can often indicate a popular and delicious vendor, but not always! Don’t be afraid to wait in line for a particularly appealing dish, but also be mindful of your time and energy.
Check for Allergy Information
If you have allergies, be sure to Check for Allergy Information and ask vendors about ingredients. The Bloomsburg Fair can be a challenging environment for people with food allergies, so it’s important to be vigilant and take precautions.
Hydrate!
It’s important to Hydrate! Drink plenty of water or lemonade throughout the day to stay hydrated. The fair can be hot and crowded, so it’s important to take care of your body.
Read Reviews (if possible)
Finally, you can Read Reviews (if possible). While not all vendors have online reviews, it’s worth checking to see what other people have said about their experiences. This can help you make informed decisions about where to eat.
Conclusion
The Bloomsburg Fair is more than just a fair; it’s a culinary adventure waiting to be explored. With its diverse range of classic and innovative dishes, there’s something to satisfy every palate. From the perfectly crisp corn dogs at Cody’s to the award-winning pies at the baking contest, the Bloomsburg Fair offers a food experience you won’t soon forget. It truly is the best food at Bloomsburg Fair you can find.
So, grab your friends, loosen your belt, and get ready for a delicious adventure at the Bloomsburg Fair! And remember, don’t be afraid to try something new, embrace the chaos, and most importantly, have fun! The memories you make and the flavors you savor will last long after the fairgrounds close. Bon appétit!
