Puyallup Fair: Your Ultimate Guide to Rides, Food & Fun (2024)

Aug 30, 2025

Welcome to the Puyallup Fair: Your Complete Guide

The Puyallup Fair, officially known as the Washington State Fair, is a beloved annual tradition that draws crowds from all over the Pacific Northwest and beyond. More than just a fair, it's an immersive experience filled with thrilling rides, mouthwatering food, captivating exhibits, and unforgettable entertainment. Whether you're a seasoned fair veteran or a first-time visitor, this comprehensive guide will equip you with everything you need to make the most of your trip to the Puyallup Fair.

What is the Puyallup Fair?

The Washington State Fair, held in Puyallup, Washington, is one of the largest state fairs in the United States. Its history stretches back to 1900, when it was initially established as an agricultural exposition. Over the years, it has evolved into a multifaceted event that celebrates the region's heritage, agriculture, and community spirit. Today, it offers a diverse range of attractions, including:

Agricultural exhibits showcasing livestock, crops, and farming techniques.
Thrill rides and games for all ages.
Live music performances and entertainment.
A wide variety of food vendors serving everything from classic fair fare to gourmet cuisine.
Educational exhibits on topics ranging from science to history.
Shopping opportunities featuring local crafts, art, and merchandise.

Planning Your Trip to the Puyallup Fair

A little planning can go a long way in ensuring a smooth and enjoyable fair experience. Here are some key factors to consider:

Dates and Times

The Puyallup Fair typically takes place in September. Be sure to check the official Washington State Fair website for the specific dates and daily operating hours. Note that the fair may have different hours on weekdays versus weekends.

Tickets and Admission

You can purchase tickets online in advance, which is often the most convenient option. Consider purchasing season passes if you plan to attend multiple days. Keep an eye out for discounts and promotional offers, which are often available through local businesses or online retailers. Senior discounts and military discounts are often available, so be sure to check the fair's website for details.

Getting There: Transportation and Parking

The Puyallup Fairgrounds are located at 110 9th Ave SW, Puyallup, WA 98371. Driving is a common option, but parking can be challenging, especially on weekends. Consider carpooling or using public transportation to avoid traffic congestion. Pierce Transit offers bus routes that serve the fairgrounds. The Sounder train also stops in Puyallup, providing a convenient option for those coming from Seattle or Tacoma.

Parking Tips:

Arrive early, especially on weekends, to secure a parking spot.
Be prepared for potential traffic delays.
Consider using off-site parking options and shuttle services, if available.
Note the location of your parked car to avoid getting lost later.

What to Wear and Bring

Comfort is key when attending the Puyallup Fair. Wear comfortable shoes, as you'll be doing a lot of walking. Dress in layers, as the weather can be unpredictable in September. Bring sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat to protect yourself from the sun. A small backpack or bag can be useful for carrying essentials such as water, snacks, and sunscreen. Consider bringing a portable phone charger to keep your devices powered up throughout the day. A reusable water bottle is also a good idea to stay hydrated.

Accessibility

The Puyallup Fair strives to be accessible to all visitors. The fairgrounds offer accessible parking, restrooms, and other facilities. Wheelchairs and mobility scooters are available for rent on a first-come, first-served basis. Service animals are welcome at the fair. The fair's website provides detailed information about accessibility services and accommodations.

Navigating the Puyallup Fair: Key Areas and Attractions

The Puyallup Fairgrounds are vast, so it's helpful to familiarize yourself with the key areas and attractions before you go.

The Midway: Thrill Rides and Games

The Midway is the heart of the Puyallup Fair, featuring a dazzling array of thrill rides and games for all ages. From towering roller coasters to classic carnival games, there's something for everyone. Popular rides include the Extreme Scream, the Ring of Fire, and the Ferris wheel. Be sure to check the ride height restrictions before getting in line. Consider purchasing a ride wristband for unlimited rides throughout the day. Game enthusiasts can test their skills at various carnival games, with prizes ranging from stuffed animals to novelty items.

Animal Exhibits and Agricultural Displays

The Puyallup Fair has its roots in agriculture, and the animal exhibits and agricultural displays remain a highlight of the event. See prize-winning livestock, learn about farming techniques, and get up close with a variety of animals, including cows, pigs, sheep, goats, and horses. The Dairy Women of Washington milk barn provides educational demonstrations about dairy farming. The Future Farmers of America (FFA) exhibit showcases the talents and achievements of young agricultural leaders.

The Farm: Family Fun and Learning

The Farm at SillyVille offers a hands-on learning experience for families and children. Kids can milk a (simulated) cow, learn about different types of crops, and participate in agricultural activities. The area also features educational exhibits on topics such as composting and sustainable farming. It's a great place for kids to learn about where their food comes from and the importance of agriculture.

Showplex: Entertainment and Exhibits

The Showplex is a large indoor venue that hosts a variety of entertainment acts, exhibits, and events throughout the fair. Check the fair schedule for concerts, performances, and demonstrations taking place in the Showplex. Past performers include well-known musicians, comedians, and entertainers. The Showplex also features vendor booths selling a wide range of products and services.

The Grandstand: Concerts and Events

The Grandstand is the fair's premier outdoor venue, hosting major concerts, rodeos, and other large-scale events. Check the fair schedule for the Grandstand lineup and ticket information. Past performers have included country music stars, rock legends, and pop icons. Grandstand events often require separate tickets in addition to fair admission.

The Gold Gate: Shopping and Crafts

The Gold Gate area is a shopper's paradise, featuring hundreds of vendor booths selling everything from clothing and jewelry to home decor and crafts. Discover unique and handcrafted items from local artisans and businesses. The Gold Gate is a great place to find souvenirs and gifts. Be prepared to browse and bargain for the best deals.

The Food of the Puyallup Fair: A Culinary Adventure

No trip to the Puyallup Fair is complete without indulging in the fair's iconic food offerings. From classic fair fare to gourmet creations, there's something to satisfy every craving.

Must-Try Fair Food

Fisher Scones: These legendary scones are a Puyallup Fair staple. Served warm with raspberry jam and whipped cream, they're a sweet treat that's not to be missed.
Krabby Patties: Not the SpongeBob kind, but delicious crab-filled patties that are fried to golden perfection.
Elephant Ears: A giant, deep-fried pastry topped with butter, cinnamon, and sugar. Perfect for sharing (or not!).
Corn Dogs: A classic fair food, corn dogs are a deep-fried hot dog on a stick, coated in a sweet cornmeal batter.
Turkey Legs: A massive, smoked turkey leg that's a carnivore's dream.
Snoqualmie Ice Cream: Locally made ice cream with a variety of unique and delicious flavors.
Burgers & Fries: You can't go wrong with classic burgers and crispy fries.
Deep-Fried Everything: From Oreos to pickles, the Puyallup Fair offers a wide range of deep-fried delicacies.

Tips for Navigating the Food Scene

Come Hungry: With so many tempting options, it's best to arrive with an empty stomach.
Share with Friends: Portions can be large, so consider sharing dishes to sample a wider variety of foods.
Check Prices: Fair food can be expensive, so check prices before you order.
Bring Cash: While many vendors accept credit cards, cash is still a good idea for smaller purchases.
Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of water to stay hydrated, especially on hot days.
Look for Deals: Some vendors offer discounts or specials during certain hours.
Read Reviews: Check online reviews or ask other fairgoers for recommendations.

Beyond the Classics: Exploring Diverse Food Options

While the classic fair foods are a must-try, the Puyallup Fair also offers a diverse range of culinary options beyond the traditional fare. Explore international cuisine, gourmet food trucks, and healthy alternatives. You can find everything from Mexican food and Asian cuisine to barbecue and seafood. Be sure to check out the food courts for a variety of dining options.

Entertainment at the Puyallup Fair

The Puyallup Fair offers a wide range of entertainment options for all ages and interests.

Concerts and Live Music

The Grandstand hosts major concerts featuring well-known artists from various genres. Check the fair schedule for the concert lineup and ticket information. In addition to the Grandstand concerts, you can find live music performances throughout the fairgrounds, featuring local bands, tribute acts, and other entertainers. The Coca-Cola Stage and the Farm Stage are popular venues for live music.

Rodeos and Equestrian Events

The Puyallup Rodeo is a popular event that showcases the skills of cowboys and cowgirls in various rodeo competitions, including bull riding, barrel racing, and steer wrestling. Equestrian events, such as horse shows and demonstrations, are also held throughout the fair.

Comedy Shows and Performances

The Showplex and other venues host comedy shows and performances featuring comedians, magicians, and other entertainers. Check the fair schedule for show times and ticket information.

Family-Friendly Entertainment

The Puyallup Fair offers a variety of family-friendly entertainment options, including:

SillyVille: A dedicated area for kids with rides, games, and activities.
Petting Zoo: Get up close and personal with a variety of animals.
Strolling Performers: Magicians, clowns, and other strolling performers entertain fairgoers throughout the grounds.
Educational Exhibits: Learn about agriculture, science, and history through interactive exhibits.

Tips and Tricks for a Successful Puyallup Fair Visit

Here are some additional tips and tricks to help you make the most of your trip to the Puyallup Fair:

Plan Ahead

Check the Fair Schedule: Review the fair schedule in advance to identify the events and attractions that interest you.
Make Reservations: If you plan to attend a Grandstand concert or other ticketed event, make reservations in advance to avoid disappointment.
Download the Fair App: The official Puyallup Fair app provides useful information such as maps, schedules, and vendor listings.

Stay Safe and Healthy

Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of water throughout the day to avoid dehydration.
Wear Sunscreen: Protect yourself from the sun by wearing sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat.
Wash Your Hands: Wash your hands frequently to prevent the spread of germs. Hand sanitizing stations are located throughout the fairgrounds.
Be Aware of Your Surroundings: Stay aware of your surroundings and report any suspicious activity to security personnel.
First Aid: First aid stations are located throughout the fairgrounds for medical assistance.

Save Money

Look for Discounts: Take advantage of discounts and promotional offers on tickets and rides.
Bring Your Own Snacks and Drinks: Save money by bringing your own snacks and drinks (check the fair's policy on outside food and beverages).
Take Advantage of Free Activities: The Puyallup Fair offers a variety of free activities and entertainment options.

Be Prepared for Crowds

Arrive Early: Arrive early to avoid the largest crowds.
Go on Weekdays: Weekdays are generally less crowded than weekends.
Be Patient: Be prepared for long lines and crowded areas.

Capture the Memories

Take Photos: Capture the memories of your Puyallup Fair experience by taking photos and videos.
Share on Social Media: Share your photos and videos on social media using the hashtag #PuyallupFair.
Buy Souvenirs: Buy souvenirs to remember your trip to the Puyallup Fair.

Beyond the Fair: Exploring Puyallup and the Surrounding Area

If you're planning a trip to the Puyallup Fair, consider exploring the city of Puyallup and the surrounding area. Puyallup offers a variety of attractions, including:

Puyallup Historical Society & Museum: Learn about the history of Puyallup and the surrounding area.
Meeker Mansion: Visit the historic home of Ezra Meeker, a pioneer who played a significant role in the development of the region.
South Hill Mall: Shop at a variety of stores and restaurants at this regional shopping mall.
Local Parks: Enjoy the outdoors at one of Puyallup's many parks, such as Bradley Lake Park and Pioneer Park.

The surrounding area also offers a variety of attractions, including:

Mount Rainier National Park: Explore the stunning natural beauty of Mount Rainier National Park, located just a short drive from Puyallup. Mount Rainier National Park Website
Tacoma: Visit the city of Tacoma, home to museums, art galleries, and waterfront attractions.
Seattle: Explore the city of Seattle, known for its iconic landmarks, vibrant culture, and thriving culinary scene. Visit Seattle Website

Puyallup Fair: A Tradition Worth Experiencing

The Puyallup Fair is more than just a fair; it's a celebration of community, agriculture, and fun. With its thrilling rides, delicious food, captivating entertainment, and educational exhibits, the Puyallup Fair offers something for everyone. Plan your trip today and experience the magic of Washington's largest event!

Experience-Based Insights: My Personal Puyallup Fair Recommendations

Having attended the Puyallup Fair for many years, I've developed some personal recommendations based on my experiences:

Best Time to Go: Aim for a weekday, preferably Tuesday or Wednesday, to avoid the weekend crowds.
Must-Try Food Combo: Start with a Fisher Scone, then move on to a Krabby Patty, and finish with Snoqualmie Ice Cream. It's the perfect Puyallup Fair culinary trifecta!
Hidden Gem: Don't miss the demonstrations at the Dairy Women of Washington milk barn. It's surprisingly informative and entertaining.
Pro Tip for Rides: Head straight to the most popular rides as soon as the fair opens to minimize wait times.
Family Fun Suggestion: Spend some time at The Farm at SillyVille. It's a great way for kids to learn about agriculture while having fun.
Evening Entertainment: Check out the live music at the Coca-Cola Stage in the evening. The atmosphere is lively and the music is usually great.

Final Thoughts and 2024 Updates

The Puyallup Fair is a truly unique and memorable experience. By following this guide, you'll be well-equipped to navigate the fairgrounds, discover the best attractions, and create lasting memories. Keep an eye on the official Washington State Fair website for updates on the 2024 fair, including new attractions, events, and promotions. I hope to see you there!