We have now entered a period of time which many Albert Leans refer to as “the six best days of summer,” a.k.a. the Freeborn County Fair. I’m not a huge fan of the fair because I really don’t enjoy large crowds of people, but I am a huge fan of food and country music.

This week, I will see Frankie Ballard and Tyler Farr, two newer names in country. I was excited to see both Ballard and Farr as they are both up-and-coming and should be very big names in the industry in a matter of years.

As for fair food, I thought I’d name my favorite food and drink at the fair.

1. Lemonade. The best place to get an ice cold glass of lemonade anywhere is the place that looks like a giant lemon. It’s super fresh, cold and delicious.

2. Strawberry smoothies. These can be found at a stand that also sells mini donuts. I’m pretty sure these smoothies are loaded up with sugar, but they are oh-so-good. Plus, after a hot day, a cold smoothie really hits the spot.

3. Queen’s Apples. As far as caramel apples go, they’re really kind of difficult to eat. Think about it. An apple on a stick, covered in ooey-gooey caramel. It doesn’t sound too easy to bite into. Queen’s Apples are sliced, covered in warm caramel sauce, peanuts and whipped cream with a cherry on top. They are amazing.

4. Deep-fried Oreos. Deepfried Oreos are so rich, but they are totally worth it for a once-a-year treat. Add ice cream on top, and they’re even better.

5. Funnel cake. Funnel cakes are great because they’re versatile. You can either eat them plain or with just about any topping you can think of.

6. Mini donuts. Hot, sugary and deep fried. Need I say more?

7. Greek kebabs. The pork on these are seasoned just right. The bread they stick on top is warm, soft and baked to perfection.

8. Shrimp kebabs. I just discovered these a few years ago. You can get your shrimp seasoned with either garlic or Cajun seasoning. Both are super tasty.

9. Hot beef sundaes. I just stumbled upon these last fair season. I’ve been able to enjoy them a few times since at various events and festivals. It’s a piece of Texas bread, mashed potatoes, shredded beef, gravy, shredded cheese and a cherry tomato on top. Basically, it’s comfort food in a dish, and it’s heaven on earth.

I hope you get a chance to enjoy all the fair has to offer this week, and especially enjoy some great food.

 

Erin Murtaugh is an undergraduate at Bemidji State University studying elementary education. She can be reached at murtaugh.erin@gmail.com.