The Youth Fair: Families and Friends Chase the Wild Magic
The Youth Fair is the hot spot during the spring break season for residents in the tri-county area. It’s a place where memories are made with family and friends. The Youth Fair has everything from exhilarating rides to delicious food, games, live music, and more. It also allows students to exhibit their artistic talents and skills.
This year, the Youth Fair is centered around the theme “Wild About the Fair.” The theme celebrates safari animals, bold explorers, and the wild energy that makes the Fair unforgettable. A perfect way to interact with the concept is to explore the wild animals themselves.
The Show Me Safari petting zoo is a great way to start. At the fair’s petting zoo, you can meet friendly animals and enjoy camel rides. The fair’s barn is the next part of this interactive adventure. The barn is home to multiple species of livestock and allows visitors to partake in hands-on agricultural activities. The last recommendation is the Sea Lion Splash, a heartwarming show where you can watch playful and talented sea lions perform.
The fair’s exhibits are the next attractions visitors must see. Held in Arnold Hall and Edwards Hall, the exhibits showcase the achievements of many young individuals, whether through art, photography, Photoshop, digital design, or other creative activities.
“I loved participating because it gave me the opportunity to use everything I learned in and out of class and show my skills. I put in about two to three weeks of working in class and had a lot of fun experimenting with my design. Getting second place felt so relieving because I knew my hard work was worth it. I participated in the Business, Finance, Marketing, and IT division for magazine design,” said sophomore Amaya Hollerman.
After a calm introduction to the fairgrounds, the real fun begins with the thrilling rides. The top thrills at the fair are Mach 3, Mega Drop, and Cliffhanger. Family favorites include the Double Decker Merry-Go-Round and the Giant Wheel. Everyone enjoys the classic rides, but the fair also knows how to bring in the new. Recently, they released a heart-racing attraction that has been the talk of the town: the Pegasus.
“Initially intimidated by its intensity, I found the ‘claw’ ride far scarier in motion than it appeared. The constant spinning and shifting directions left me disoriented and unsure of which way was up. At one point, I felt weightless in my seat as my heart dropped straight into my stomach. Ultimately, it was a thrilling experience that was even better because I shared it with friends. I enjoyed the adrenaline rush so much that I would definitely choose to ride it again,” stated sophomore Absara Sagarra.
However, nothing can beat the most breathtaking ride: the Euro Slide. Riders are immediately astonished by the scenic views when they reach the top. Then, after taking in the beautiful sight, riders go down the electrifying slide to the sound of laughter.
After an action-packed day, you will surely work up an appetite. Fortunately, the fair has a variety of food options for you to choose from. Offerings range from all-time fair favorites like corn dogs, turkey legs, and funnel cakes to unique culinary blends such as the Mojo Pork Megaton, Pickle Fries, and the Walking Taco. Visitors can also enjoy delicious sweet treats like the Berry Wild Pop Tart Sundae, Strawberry Cheesecake Funnel Cake, or the Churro Snake. You can then wash it all down with a classic, refreshing fair lemonade that everyone looks forward to.
The Youth Fair is truly a beautiful experience with its interactive attractions, rides, music, food, and overall great vibe. Memories are waiting to be made with family and friends that will be remembered for a lifetime.
