10 WAYS YOU CAN MAKE MONEY THE HARD WAY AT A STATE FAIR

Unfortunately as a lifelong NYer I have never truly lost my true State Fair cherry. True, I have been to Disney World and a petting zoo. So maybe if you combine the 2 experiences I can somewhat get an idea of what a State Fair is all about. However I am sadly lacking in one category – the contests where you have a shot at making some green (between $100 - $500), and winning a blue ribbon. Here are 10 events that I must add to my bucket list.

Honey & Bee Culture: Exhibitors compete in who has the best tasting honey, beeswax crafting, and hive-care.

Crop Contest: Farmers showcase veggies that are judged in taste, looks, and size.

Livestock Contests: Judges are on the lookout for prize-winning beef cattle, dairy cattle, swine, sheep, Boer goats, dairy goats, llamas, chickens, ducks, geese, turkeys, pigeons, rabbits, and stock dogs.

Bird Calling Contests: Participants get 3 minutes to give their best duck, turkey, or chicken call.

Monster Arm Wrestling: Name says it all.

Mullet / Beard Growing Contests: Don’t believe me? Check the Iowa State Fair contest list.

Decorative Diaper: Judged on creativity, originality, and lack of smell. 

Nail Driving Contest (guys and gals): Participants are judged on how fast they can drive 6 nails into a plank of wood.

Cow Chip Throwing Contest: Sorta like the discus throw except with bovine crap.

Rubber Chicken Toss: For ages 16 and up. Chickens are supplied.