From summer time to late autumn, the fairs are in full swing and ready to bring your family unforgettable memories! Of course, they’re also more than willing to take your money and lots of it. If you’re worried about getting your family to the fair this year then there are some things to consider before you buy your tickets and go. With a little simple planning you’ll be able to find the best discounts on your tickets and purchases before you even set foot on the fair grounds. So, stop stressing about this pricey event because with these tips you could walk out of the fair paying next to nothing for your amazing experience.

1. Buy Tickets Ahead of Time
One of the best things you can do when it comes to the fair is shop early. There’s a lot of reasons for this though. For starters, most of the time when you buy tickets before the fair you’ll get them for at least $10 cheaper. This is a great way to enjoy savings right away and it saves you time too since you won’t have to wait ages at the front gate for entrance. Also, some stores that sell tickets will actually help you cut down on the price when you purchase certain items in their store. If the items are something you need then you’ll be able to get one of the best deals. Some soda companies will also make special cans that can be turned in for a discounted price on a ticket. If you’re going to other events, such as a monster truck show or brew festival, both of which are usually attached to the fair, then you may be able to get a free ticket for the fair with your purchase. With deals like these you’ll wonder why you ever bought tickets at the gate.

2. Look for Discounts
When it comes to savings, you should actually do a little digging so you can ensure you’re going to save the maximum amount on your trip to the fair. The first thing you may want to look for is special days that will help your family save. For starters, most fairs will have a special evening dedicated to children, the elderly, military or first responders. You may want to check out which of these evenings will take off the most money, so you can maximize savings. Apart from the special night dedicated to these groups, you may also get a discount on your tickets, so make sure to ask whenever you make a purchase. Military and first responder discounts may depend on the store in which you buy them, so you might want to call around before you make your final decision. Of course, if your disabled, a member of a specific club or you intend to work at the fair, you may also find great discounts.

3. Go Early
One of the best things you can do for your family and your budget is to leave early for the fair. In the summer temperatures tend to rise pretty quickly, so if you head to the fair early enough, you can get a lot of the fun out of the way before the heat kicks in. This can be especially important at the height of summer, as if you’re out past 11 in the morning, you could end up feeling sick and tired due to heat exhaustion. Try to show up when the fair opens so you’ll have plenty of time to enjoy the rides and outdoor games. Before the heat kicks in grab a bite to eat and then go inside. There’s usually a lot of things to see and so indoors and it will give the family a chance to wind down before heading home. Not to mention, if you show up early, you’ll usually beat the crowds which means more games, rides and activities without the huge lines.

4. Keep Hydrated
If there’s one thing you should do to make your time at the fair amazing, it’s definitely keep everyone hydrated. When it’s hot outside, you need a lot more water to keep your body going. This is especially true with the elderly and children. Without the proper amount of water, they could easily be at risk for a heat stroke. So, look ahead of time to see if you can bring your own drinks into the park. If so, carrying around a backpack of water bottles it shouldn’t be too difficult. You could also bring your own personalized reusable cups. If the cups have a filter then you can fill them up just about anywhere you go. If not, then you should be able to find a proper water fountain to suit your needs. If you have to buy drinks at the fair then consider purchasing a big cup. Usually stands will fill it up for water for free or you can pay a small refill fee. If you all share a cup, everyone should get what they need for a lot less.

5. Share Food
Although it’s a lot cheaper to pass up the food at the fair, it is often too tempting to do so. Some fair foods are one of a kind or are something you’ll only be able to buy once a year, so a lot of people are more than willing to hand over the money for these treats. Fair food is pretty pricey though, which can cause a big problem if you’re on a tight budget. The only saving grace about fair food is the fact that portions are actually really big. So, instead of wasting a small fortune on foods, try to find something the entire family is going to enjoy. Once you have your order, everyone can have a share of the dish. This won’t just cut down on money, big time, but it will also help prevent any major stomach aches while you’re outside. Considering most fair foods are fried or greasy, you’ll be glad you didn’t eat the entire corn dog or fried twinkie on your own.

6. Coupon Book
A lot of fairs will actually offer a coupon book for their customers. Sometimes these can be bought with your tickets, while other times they are offered by groups that are running fundraisers. All the same, they are generally priced fairly, so you shouldn’t have to spend an arm and a leg on the book. These books come in handy in many different aspects. For starters, they will offer plenty of freebies. From refills to a game or ride, you’ll be thankful for your freebie when you’re running out of money. Sometimes, the coupon will allow you a freebie with the purchase of something, which works out great if you have children. One of the best coupons is for drinks and beverages, which are perfect when everyone begins to lose energy at the fair. You may even be lucky enough to get a major discount on tickets for some of the main events.

7. Concerts
One of the best things to do at the concert is to sit back and listen to music. Luckily, most fairs include concerts in the price of their tickets, so you can easily take this time to cool down and grab some food. Sometimes the concerts will feature local bands of famous covers bands which may strike your fancy. Larger fairs even manage to add a few big names to the ticket, but you should always try to be early for these concerts as they will fill up fast. When you settle down for the concert you may want to consider bringing a blanket. This is perfect for picnics, but it also makes a great place for little ones to lay down and nap while you enjoy the music. Of course, if they’re not of the napping age then let them use some of the goodies they got at the fair, such as a coloring books and crayon.

8. Freebies
Chances are, if you know where to look, you’re going to end up with a lot of freebies while you’re at the fair, which may make you feel a lot better about paying the admission price. Of course, you’re probably not going to get any of the freebies if you stay outdoors the entire time. Generally, outside usually has a few free shows, but apart from that the real action is either indoors or a specific section of the fair that’s dedicate to merchants. A lot of people will show up free sample of their goodies, special gifts and other items you can take home with you. The fair usually has a great petting zoo or educational areas for kids to learn more about agriculture, which is a lesson you may not be able to give them any other way. Last but not least, you’ll most likely be able to enjoy a local art show, which is a great way to get acquainted with local artists.

9. Ride/Game Pass
A lot of people go to the fair for one reason and that is, games and rides. Of course, these are some of the priciest things to do while you’re at the fair. With rides ranging over $2 a ride and games even more expensive, there’s no doubt that you could go broke at the fair if you’re not paying attention. Luckily, a lot of fairs will offer passes that can help you save a whole lot of money. You can buy these in advance or at the door, so make sure to ask whenever you get your tickets. Generally, you will get a special wrist band or card that shows just how many rides or games you can play. The fair usually offers a bulk price on these, so you won’t end up paying the same as you would per ride or game. This should help you get more fun out of your time at the fair without leaving you completely broke after trying out each ride or game.

10. Don’t Drive
If you’re local, driving your car to the fair can be one of the worst things you can do. For starters, you’re going to have to make it through traffic just to get to the fair, which is a huge tourist attraction. When you finally arrive, you’ll be asked to pay parking fees which can range from $10 and up. Even after paying for your parking spot, your journey isn’t quite over. Actually, the battle to find a parking spot has just begun, which could take a whole lot of time out of your day. Usually, the parking lots are packed, so driving around is only going to cost you more money by wasting gasoline. When you finally get a spot, you get to look forward to getting out of the parking lot and making your way through traffic, just to get back home. If you can, try to walk or ride bikes to the fair. Of course, public transit is always a great way to go that could save you a whole lot of money. Some fairs will even have shuttles, so it you’re looking to save you may want to find out where this service picks up and if it cost anything.

Hanging out at the fair is a great way to bond with family and friends. For generations, people have loved the rides, games, food and shows, so make sure you don’t miss out due to a tight budget. With any luck, you’ll be able to have a blast without having to worry about your spending.