BATON ROUGE, La. – The Greater Baton Rouge State Fair is in full swing, offering 11 days packed with food, rides, and fun. Vendors are buzzing with excitement, preparing for crowds eager to enjoy the festivities.
Mark Rotolo, a vendor, plans to whip up 15-20 pots of jambalaya during the event. “The prep work is the toughest part, but once it’s all set up, it’s just pure fun!” he shared.
This year’s fair boasts nearly 100 food choices from 24 different vendors, featuring everything from fried Oreos to alligator balls. New attractions include helicopter rides, adding a thrilling twist for visitors.
Cliff Barton, who has been organizing the fair since 1973, feels the first night makes all the hard work worth it. “Hearing the joy of children and feeling the vibrant atmosphere makes it all worthwhile,” he said.
Operating as a nonprofit, the fair supports the Baton Rouge community. All profits go back to local projects, raising over $5 million since its inception. This money funds grants, sponsorships, and scholarships to help those in need.
Volunteers play a crucial role, with nearly 100 people helping behind the scenes. Rotolo believes the variety is a highlight. “You really get a taste of everything here. It’s a flavor explosion!”
According to a recent survey, county fairs like this one have seen a resurgence in popularity, drawing larger crowds than in previous years. Experts believe this trend is partly due to the growing desire for local community experiences.
For more details about the fair, check their official website here.
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