Fair Aquarium and Wildlife Exhibits

What might you see at a fair wildlife exhibit?

Exhibits vary widely. Some fairs host aquariums with local fish, touch tanks, reptile and amphibian displays, raptor demonstrations or visits from wildlife educators. Others feature state wildlife agency displays about local species, or fishing and hunting education booths.

Because each fair arranges its own exhibits, check the official schedule and map to see what is offered and when.

Fishing and angling education areas are common at fairs, with casting practice or a small stocked pond. Rules about licenses and fishing are set by the state, so check with the state wildlife agency. Check whether a show is a live demonstration with a set time, since many of these are short and fill quickly. Arrive a few minutes early and expect to stand.

Who runs these exhibits?

Many are run by state fish and wildlife agencies, nature centers, universities, zoos or licensed educators. Wildlife handling usually requires permits, and licensed organizations know the rules. The fair office can tell you who is behind a given exhibit.

If you want to know more about an organization, ask a staff member or look for a sign with the group's name.

Look for the name of the licensing agency or group on signs and ask staff if you are curious about how they keep the animals healthy.

How should you behave around the animals?

Keep your voice low and your movements calm. Do not tap on glass, pound on tanks or throw anything into water. Touch animals only when staff say it is allowed and show you how. Watch children closely at touch tanks.

If an animal looks stressed, give it room. Staff are there to help both you and the animals.

Some tanks have a limited number of visitors allowed at once. Wait your turn, and let others enjoy it. A calm approach also keeps animals less stressed, which makes for better viewing for everyone. Children who stay quiet are often rewarded with a better look.

• Do not tap on tanks
• Touch only where and how staff allow
• Keep hands clean and out of your mouth
• Follow animal handler directions

What about health and hygiene?

Reptiles, amphibians, birds and fish can carry germs that make people sick, even when healthy. The CDC offers guidance on safe contact with these animals, including hand washing after touching them or their water. Follow the fair's posted rules.

Young children, older adults, pregnant people and people with weakened immune systems should ask a clinician about contact with these animals. I cannot give medical advice.

Soap and water are the best option after contact. Keep food and drinks away from the exhibits, and do not let children kiss or hold animals near their faces. Keep stroller wheels out of water spills and clean up promptly, since wet floors are slippery. Staff can help if a spill happens.

How do you learn from the exhibits?

Ask the people running the displays. Educators love questions such as where an animal lives, what it eats and how people can help protect its habitat. Many exhibits include short talks and demonstrations, listed on the schedule.

Children enjoy scavenger hunts, so make a game of finding different species and noting what they eat.

Bring a notebook or take photos where permitted, and look up what you saw later. It turns a short visit into a lasting lesson. Short talks are a good chance to hear from a trained educator. If there is a question and answer period, children can prepare a question beforehand.

What are the ethics of wildlife on display?

People have different views about keeping wildlife in captivity or displaying it for entertainment. This guide takes no side. Licensed educators typically follow state and federal rules, and reputable groups explain how they care for the animals and why they are on display.

If you have questions or concerns, talk to staff or contact the state wildlife agency, which can explain permit and care rules.

Zoos and wildlife educators often say that learning about animals is the first step toward caring for them. That is a view you may hear from exhibit staff, and you can ask them about it.

How can you help wildlife after the fair?

Learn about local species and habitat, and about what to do if you find injured or orphaned wildlife. Do not pick up wild animals. Contact a licensed rehabilitator or your state wildlife agency instead.

Extension offices and nature centers offer programs for families that explain how to support local wildlife and fish populations.

Support conservation groups that are transparent about their work, and be cautious about wildlife experiences that make big promises. Ask questions before you give your money. Visit a local nature center or watch a documentary after the fair to keep the interest going.

Last reviewed: November 12, 2026. Written by the County Fair & Rodeo Guide Editorial Team. See our editorial policy.