What began in 1955 as a civic project by the Mobile Junior Chamber of Commerce has over the decades grown into today’s Greater Gulf State Fair, Alabama’s largest fair (still run by volunteers from the Jaycees). The Greater Gulf, for those unfamiliar with the region, refers to South Alabama, Northwest Florida, and Southeast Mississippi, all, of course, along the Gulf of Mexico. This year’s theme: ““Lions, Tigers, The Fair , Oh My!”.

Gotta grab some chocolate-covered bacon!

Gotta grab some chocolate-covered bacon!

If you’re hungry at the fair, you’ll have the opportunity to enjoy that unique Deep South delicacy, the bird dog: a hot dog bun topped with crumbled bacon, fried boneless chicken strips, shredded cheese, and honey mustard! Chicken on a stick is also very popular here at the Greater Gulf, and you’re close enough to The Big Easy to expect some hot, sugary beignets.

Ever thought of sampling a loaded baked potato pizza?

Ever thought of sampling a loaded baked potato pizza?

There will actually be lions, tigers, and bears at the Greater Gulf, as well as pigs, monkeys, alligators, and a PCA rodeo to boot. Visit with hogs, poultry, lambs, and heifers in The Barn. The Wizard of Oz theme continues with an interactive Yellow Brick Road. You’ll find plenty of activities geared towards the kids: there’s an exotic petting zoo as well as 30 kids rides including a carousel. Of course, you can count on a midway to provide thrills for the older kids and adults. See the festival website for all the details.

Midway, Greater Gulf State Fair, Mobile, AL