Fair Thanksgiving

As families and friends celebrate Thanksgiving on Thursday, many will gather around the dining room table for a feast of yummy food. My plan is to eat as much turkey and homemade goodies as I can. The holiday only comes once a year, so it makes the traditional meal even more special.

Since the Iowa State Fair is only 11 days out of the year, Fair food is its own special tradition. Personally, I try to eat as much Fair food as I can during August. Two State Fairs have incorporated Thanksgiving into their Fair’s menu.

The Wisconsin State Fair has featured a Thanksgiving Waffle. A bread stuffing with craisins, mixed with waffle batter, cooked in a Belgium Waffle iron, and topped with mashed potatoes, turkey, and gravy. In a competition at the Texas State Fair, a contestant made an entire Fried Thanksgiving dinner.

Part of me wishes my family would have delicious and giant State Fair Turkey Legs for our Thanksgiving dinner. Maybe one day. In all seriousness, the Blue Ribbon Foundation is thankful for our donors, patrons, volunteers, supporters and Iowa State Fair lovers.

Part of my job includes listening to Iowans tell their personal Fair stories. Generations have made the Iowa State Fair a family tradition. I am thankful I’ve had the opportunity to join the Blue Ribbon Foundation staff and become part of the Iowa State Fair Family.

Happy Thanksgiving!

Wisconsin's State Fair Thanksgiving Waffle: