As a local of the area, the Allentown Fair has always been a summer event popular to those who live here, including myself. Even though I had not attended the fair since I was around the age of five, it is much like I remember it to be; the only real main differences that stuck out to me from about fourteen years ago are seeing some people walking around with face masks due to COVID-19, walking over to the fair instead of driving since I am currently closer to the area where it takes place it, and now being able to go on all of the rides since I am no longer four feet and however many inches tall. Some key aspects of the fair that were very nostalgic for me remain the sweet taste of fresh squeezed lemonade from stands that can be found at almost every corner, smelling the delectable aroma of fried foods in the air no matter where you are, hearing the loud buzzers from carnival games as excited children win prizes, feeling the brisk wind that hits your skin as a ride zips by, and seeing the big sign for the farm animals that immediately attracts everyone to go over and check them out.
Even though I did not touch or hold any of the farm animals at the fair, it was really neat to see all the cute cows, calves, goats, sheep, and pigs; however, the area around the farm animals kind of smelled, so I did not stick around for very long.
Trying to navigate the fair was difficult at times because of crowds getting in the way. A big reason some people were standing in one place is due to a big screen playing college football that distracted many of the men. But as I walked around the crowded places, country music was playing loudly. I am a big fan of all kinds of music but I have a soft spot especially for country music, so this made the experience even more enjoyable for me, as I knew many of the songs being played.
One thing I was looking forward to but missed out on was walking around the farmer’s market and visiting various stands. I peeked in the doors of the market, but most stands were closed, so I did not walk through. Shopping at and strolling through the farmer’s market is something I have loved doing ever since I was a child. Growing up, my mom would take me there whenever I had a holiday break for school; for example, we would go on one of the days I had off for Thanksgiving in the fall. I have not been to the farmer’s market since before Covid, so when I finally do get to visit at some point, I will be very happy. Muhlenberg is not far at all from the market which means that I should have no issue finding the time to walk over some time to visit.
Overall, going to the Allentown fair was a very enjoyable experience. I am glad I got the chance to go after all these years, and with maturity, now I have come to appreciate it more.
This line was too funny oh my gosh!! “A big reason some people were standing in one place is due to a big screen playing college football that distracted many of the men.” I thought it was very interesting reading the experience of someone who had already gone to the fair before and is from the area. It gives a new perspective upon how the fair is and what you were looking forward too whilst you were there. Really enjoyed how you went over every detail!