The 10 Weirdest State Fair Foods Across America: From Fried Scorpions to Cheetos Ice Cream

Growing up, state fairs were a yearly tradition, and let’s be honest—the food was just as fun as the games we played. State fairs as the Wild West of food—anything goes, and the weirder, the better. I’m talking giant portions, unlikely pairings and deep-fried everything. But some of the concoctions out there go way beyond usual treats. These foods will have you go, “how did someone come up with that?” Get ready, because I’m sharing the ten weirdest state fair foods in the U.S. Is your state’s fair on the list?

What makes state fair foods so unique?

State fair foods blend creativity, indulgence and good old curiosity. Every year, vendors compete to outdo each other with creations that are more outlandish than the last, turning traditional snacks on their heads. What makes these foods so unique is that they’re not just about taste—they’re about the experience.

Historically, state fair foods have always pushed the boundaries of food. From the early days of simple roasted corn and lemonade stands, fair vendors quickly learned that to stand out, they needed to offer something new and memorable. This led to the rise of iconic treats like corn dogs, cotton candy and funnel cakes—foods that are now synonymous with state fairs.

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The 10 weirdest state fair foods

Ready to see how far state fair food can go? Whether you’re brave enough to try them or just here for the shock value, these wild eats are what make state fairs the ultimate food adventure.

1. Kool-Aid pickles – Mississippi State Fair

At the Mississippi State Fair, Kool-Aid Pickles, or “Koolickles,” have become a staple. Picture a tart pickle filled with the sweet, fruity flavors of Kool-Aid—bright red, green or purple. It’s a bizarre combination that delivers a taste explosion that’s half-dill, half-dessert.

2. Fried scorpions – Arizona State Fair

If you’re looking to add a little crunch to your diet, the Arizona State Fair has you covered with fried scorpions. Yes, actual scorpions are skewered, fried until crispy and served up to brave fairgoers. They’re surprisingly tasty, with a flavor reminiscent of shrimp, if you can get past the whole eating-a-scorpion part.

3. Deep-fried spaghetti and meatballs – Texas State Fair

Everything’s bigger in Texas, including their state fair food. The Texas State Fair takes comfort food to the next level with deep-fried spaghetti and meatballs. The entire dish is breaded and fried into a portable, crunchy-on-the-outside, soft-on-the-inside experience that’s as decadent as it sounds.

4. PB&J cheeseburger – Wisconsin State Fair

The Wisconsin State Fair loves its dairy, but they also know how to think outside the cheese wheel. Enter the peanut butter and jelly cheeseburger: a juicy beef patty topped with creamy peanut butter, sweet jelly and a slice of cheese. It’s a weird mix of savory and sweet that satisfies your burger and sandwich cravings.

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5. Krispy Kreme burger – North Carolina State Fair

North Carolina’s fairgoers know how to indulge with the Krispy Kreme burger. This calorie-packed creation sandwiches a beef patty, bacon and cheese between two original glazed Krispy Kreme doughnuts. Let's just say you won't miss the sesame seed buns.

6. Deep-fried butter – Iowa State Fair

The Iowa State Fair isn’t afraid to go all in with its deep-fried offerings. Deep-fried butter might sound impossible, but it’s a real (and really popular) item. Frozen butter is dipped in batter and fried until golden, creating a crispy shell with a melted, buttery center that’s as rich as it is ridiculous.

7. Hot beef sundae – Indiana State Fair

The Indiana State Fair puts a savory spin on dessert with the hot beef sundae. Mashed potatoes stand in for ice cream, topped with shredded roast beef, gravy, cheese and a cherry tomato on top. It’s a hearty, comforting dish that looks like a sundae but tastes like a Sunday dinner.

8. Fried alligator on a stick – Louisiana State Fair

Down in the Louisiana State Fair, you can taste the bayou with fried alligator on a stick. This Southern delicacy is seasoned, breaded and fried to perfection, offering a unique, chewy texture with a flavor that’s often compared to chicken, but with a bit more bite.

9. Pig Lickers – Minnesota State Fair

The Minnesota State Fair offers Pig Lickers, a unique snack that features chocolate-covered bacon sprinkled with sea salt. The combination of crispy bacon, creamy chocolate and a touch of saltiness makes for a savory sweet finger food.

10. Flamin’ Hot Cheetos ice cream – California State Fair

This bold creation from California combines vanilla ice cream with crushed Flamin’ Hot Cheetos, creating a sweet and spicy treat. The heat from the Cheetos contrasts with the cool, creamy ice cream, offering an unexpected flavor experience that’s surprisingly addictive.

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