State Fair Etiquette: Do’s and Don’ts

Why does fair etiquette matter?

A fair is a workplace for many people at the same time it is a vacation for others. Exhibitors have spent months preparing animals and projects, vendors work long shifts, and volunteers are often unpaid. A few simple habits go a long way toward respect.

Fairs also differ. Each organizer posts its own rules for conduct, bags, strollers, wagons, pets and photography. Read those on the fair's official page and follow signs on site, since the posted rules always beat general advice.

How should we behave in lines and crowded walkways?

Walk on the right where it is practical, step out of the flow before you stop to look at a map or take a photo, and keep strollers and wagons close so they do not block the traffic. Clustering in the middle of an aisle makes everyone behind you stall.

In food and ride lines, hold your place without spreading out your group to save spots for others who are not there. Be patient with staff who are working through a rush. If you see a rule change, such as a closed lane, trust the person at the front rather than arguing.

• Step aside to check your phone
• Keep groups compact in tight aisles
• Do not cut or save large blocks of space

What are the do's and don'ts in the animal barns?

Treat the barns as the working space of the families who live with these animals. Ask before you touch an animal, keep your voice at a normal level, and never reach over a pen or tie rail. Animals that look relaxed can startle quickly.

Ask the owner or a barn volunteer your questions, and expect that some will be busy grooming, feeding or preparing for a show. Follow every posted sign about hand washing and food in animal areas. For the health side, see the CDC's guidance on animal contact at fairs and follow the fair's posted rules.

How do we treat exhibitors, vendors and volunteers?

Thank the people who help you, and give them space to do their job. If a vendor is busy, wait your turn rather than calling across the counter. Do not haggle at a stand unless the vendor invites it.

If you have a complaint, bring it calmly to guest services rather than the first worker you see. Exhibit judges and show officials make decisions under the organizer's rules, and spectators should not heckle or crowd the ring.

What about photos, phones and personal space?

Taking pictures is part of the fair, but pause before photographing strangers, especially children. Ask a parent first, and ask an exhibitor before posting a picture of them or their animals. Avoid flash near animals, and do not hold a phone high in front of people behind you at a show.

Keep the volume of videos and music low, and use headphones where you want to listen to something while you wait.

How do we keep the grounds clean and safe?

Use the trash and recycling containers, and carry what you cannot dispose of. Do not leave cups or wrappers on ledges where animals or small children might reach them. Pick up after yourself at picnic areas.

Be thoughtful on hot days: share shade and benches, and give people with mobility needs priority at seating and accessible routes. If you see someone in distress or a safety problem, tell the nearest staff member instead of trying to handle it alone.

Strollers and wagons can feel like a convenience for you and an obstacle for others. Park them outside barns and exhibit halls where signs ask you to, and keep them out of the flow of the aisle when you stop. Offer seats at benches and shaded spots to older guests and anyone who looks tired. Remind children that animals, displays and exhibits are not toys. Quilts, baked goods and craft exhibits can be handled only by staff or judges, so teach little hands to look without touching. If your child is crying or melting down, step out of the line or show to a quieter area so others can enjoy the event.

How should we handle disagreements and tense moments?

Crowds, heat and tired children make short tempers. If someone bumps you or cuts in, take a breath before you respond, and remember that most behavior is unintentional. A calm word or simple step away usually settles things faster than a confrontation.

If a situation feels unsafe, such as shouting, a fight or someone who seems impaired, do not engage. Move your group away and tell the nearest security officer or staff member. Fairs have staff for exactly this purpose, and their job is easier when guests report problems early.

Teach children the same approach. A child who knows to say excuse me, wait a turn and ask an adult for help is a better guest and is safer in a large crowd.

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