Last Updated on April 30, 2025 by Matt Staff
These vintage state fair photos capture a time when prize rabbits, demolition derbies, and sky-high Ferris wheels drew crowds from every corner of the county. From Water-Bugs boat rides to pumpkin weigh-offs, fairs between 1900 and the 1980s offered a front-row seat to America’s quirkiest competitions and inventions. Let’s roll back the midway and relive 17 classic moments you won’t find on TikTok.
1. Looks like she took home the grand prize.
That rabbit seems like it had no doubt it was taking the victory home.
2. People really loved to show off their horses back in the day.
I just wonder how the horse (or pony) felt about it.
3. So many animals made themselves known at the fair.
Petting zoos were mad fun, and still are for plenty of folks.
4. What’s so funny fellas?
The matching suits too.
5. This guy doesn’t look too thrilled about things.
This dude wants to be anywhere but where he finds himself.
6. I don’t even know where to begin with this level of chaos.
The thunderous boom of that collision must’ve been staggering.
7. The pumpkins must’ve been stressed out, man.
Because, why not put some unsuspecting pumpkins into competition with one another?
8. Looks like another hot day on the clock.
Not clear on what he’s staying hydrated with though.
9. Must be a nice view from up there.
Hopefully, you’re not afraid of heights.
10. That kid must be just a tad bit terrified.
That kid wanted off that ride.
11. Kid’s taking a big ole swing at that.
The real question is whether or not he got the high score?
12. The lads at those booths could be quite mischievous.
That fake bird isn’t fooling anyone though.
13. These girls seem to be having a nice enough day.
State fairs and sodas go together like peanut butter and jelly.
14. It was quite difficult to succeed at that game going on in the background.
Those balloons were not easy to pop in the slightest.
15. That guy won the big prize.
The fits here are iconic. Definite ’80s vibes.
16. Water-Bugs, but the good kind.
Water-bugs look like a fun and refreshing ride.
17. Now that’s a fun throwback.
Not the horse-drawn carriages at the state fair aesthetic, though.
Looking to time-travel a little further? Wander through the hardships and heroes in 100 Photos That Totally Sum Up the 1930s, see wartime grit give way to swing-era style in 90 Photos That Totally Sum Up Life in the 1940s, or relive playground pandemonium with 20 Wild Things Kids Got Away With in the ’60s and ’70s.
