A lifetime of fair memories

Having grown up in Sweetwater County, Wyoming’s Big Show has always been a big part of my summer.

I’ve been going to the fair for as long as I can remember. As a kid, my favorite thing was going on the pony ride as many times as my parents would let me. I also loved visiting the petting zoo, going on rides at the carnival, watching the featured shows like magicians and stunt performers, and eating cotton candy. I still have a picture album from my childhood when I had a cheap film camera and a large chunk of the photos come from the fair.

One of my favorite fair memories is when my brother and I won a trophy for entering our “Lord of the Rings” action figures and memorabilia into the collections contest. 

As an adult, I still enjoy spending time at Wyoming’s Big Show. I like walking around just to see what’s there, from the features I remember as a child that the fair wouldn’t be the same without, to the new attractions that are added each year. 

I especially love it when I get to experience the fair with my nieces and nephews. It’s fun to watch them get excited about the petting zoo and the cotton candy just like I did. 

I also enjoy going to the fair with friends, and seeing friends there. Since it’s the place to be, it seems like I always run into people I know, including people I haven’t seen for a while, and it’s nice to say hi and catch up. 

Even during busy summers when I don’t have lots of time to spend at the fair, I try to stop in so I can at least eat a gyro and a funnel cake.