In its 150th milestone year, the South Carolina State Fair offered College Day Monday with free admission to all with a valid college ID.
Students of all ages from various colleges flocked to the fairgrounds over the course of the day and into the night to take advantage of what the fair has to offer. For many, attending the fair has become a tradition among their group of friends.
“My favorite memory at the fair is always coming with my friends. You never know who you’re going to see. We always end up bumping into people we know here,” said Perri Liebergall, second-year marketing student.
While the South Carolina State Fair attracts students throughout its stay, Liebergall said it becomes especially crowded on college day, as students are eager to save money.
Students seek out a plethora of fried goods, desserts and various foods on sticks each year at the fair.
"My favorite thing to get is always fried Oreos, because I never let myself eat them any other time of the year. But I know every time I come to the fair my friends and I always share them, and they’re so good,” Liebergall said.
The South Carolina State Fair would not be complete without its array of rides and games. The fair’s trademark attraction, the Ferris wheel, received a hefty upgrade this year.
“My favorite ride is the Ferris wheel, and this year I heard they have a new [one.] It’s supposed to be bigger, air-conditioned cabins, so I’m really excited to try that,” Liebergall said.
Another new addition to the fair in honor of the 150th anniversary is the circus, which offers three shows a day. Those who attend can see a variety of acts, all free with admission.
While the circus animals provide wonderful entertainment, especially for young children, some raise concerns about their ethics.
“The circus animals were really fun to see, but it’s kinda sad to see the camels because they’re stuck in a tiny little cage,” said Courtnie Coffman, first-year journalism student.
Regarding the petting zoo, Coffman said, “I think there’s a more humane way to have them, not have children sticking their fingers in the animals’ faces."
Whether in the pursuit of good food, thrilling rides or just quality time spent with friends, the South Carolina State Fair has established itself as a popular spot among college students.
The fair will run through Oct. 20. Each day offers different deals and highlights that can be found on the fair’s website.