The L.A. County Fair, a gastronomic extravaganza that has become an annual highlight for food enthusiasts, commenced today at the Pomona Fairplex and will continue until May 26. This event offers visitors a chance to indulge in an array of fried delicacies, each more creative than the last. Earlier this week, I joined a group of local social media influencers for a sneak preview of the culinary offerings. Amidst the excitement, we were greeted by Thummer, a cartoon pig who has been the face of the fair since 1948. Alongside sampling various dishes, we also engaged in activities such as customizing bucket hats with airbrushed designs. From meatball mozzarella corn dogs to pickle lemonade, the day was filled with unexpected flavors and experiences.

Highlights from the Media Food Preview at the L.A. County Fair

In the golden hues of spring, the Pomona Fairplex welcomed a lively crowd of food bloggers and influencers eager to explore the latest creations at the L.A. County Fair. The event featured an anthropomorphic pig mascot named Thummer, whose cheerful demeanor has charmed attendees for decades. Attendees received goodie bags brimming with branded memorabilia, including personalized bucket hats crafted by skilled airbrush artists. The morning unfolded under partly cloudy skies, setting the stage for a blend of internet culture and traditional fairground excitement. As cameras rolled, participants focused on capturing the perfect angles for their videos while indulging in a variety of innovative dishes. Among these was a meatball mozzarella corn dog, which, despite its intriguing name, lacked seasoning and left much to be desired. In contrast, the Anaheim chile poppers emerged as a standout dish, combining grilled peppers with a creamy cheese sauce and a sprinkle of crushed Flamin' Hot Cheetos. Moving on, the jerk lobster mac and cheese offered a bold fusion of flavors, balancing spiciness with richness. To quench the inevitable thirst, Hot Dog on a Stick introduced pickle lemonade, a tangy-sweet beverage that delighted taste buds but intensified dehydration. Between meals, guests enjoyed a lighthearted diversion with pig races and baby lamb competitions, set to upbeat music that kept spirits high. Finally, dessert came in the form of Korean-style corn dogs coated with condensed milk and Fruity Pebbles, though the excessive sweetness overshadowed other elements. By day's end, participants acknowledged the need for moderation amidst the sensory overload of fried foods and rich cheeses.

As someone who attended this whirlwind event, I couldn’t help but reflect on how modern technology and tradition converge at the county fair. While social media platforms amplify the excitement surrounding such gatherings, they also encourage us to pause and savor moments without filters or captions. The experience serves as a reminder to appreciate life’s simple pleasures—whether it’s biting into a well-seasoned snack or watching animals race with pure joy. Ultimately, events like these remind us of the importance of balance: indulging responsibly while cherishing shared human experiences. Here’s hoping future fairs continue to inspire creativity and connection among all who attend.