My husband hates the Fair because his mom hated(s) the Fair. He's gone with me and the boys for the past 10 years because I've always wanted to go. I like the atmosphere, that it only comes three weeks a year...and I love the idea of traditions. Plus, the kids LOVE THE RIDES and I loved rides when I was their age so I enjoy seeing the smiles on their faces.
This year I suggested a different plan:
Mom will take the kids.
We'll go on a day that's NOT a Saturday and NOT a wristband day. I'll be prepared to spend $75 a kid on rides (I spend more than that at Disneyland). We'll eat before we leave the house so that we only buy drinks and a snack ($20 limit). We will enjoy the FREE exhibits as much as possible, although admittedly my kids are not into animals--or the smell; oh well). We will go when Fair Admission is $1 or less and we'll park in the $5 lot.
That day was yesterday: Opening Day. Great weather.
No bitching about prices (I set a budget, remember?).
No lines (we got there at 1pm and left at 5:30pm).
Had shady places to sit.
We found bathrooms and ticket booths with no waiting.
The kids were happy.
I was happy.
We ate something deep-fried.
We made a memory.
Me and my boys.