The Great American State Fair, held at the Trump National Mall, opened to sparse attendance and extreme heat, with some food items priced as high as $25 for a pretzel, according to This Week in Trumpland. Organizers claimed that 56 states and territories would be represented with individual booths, but several declined participation due to cost.
The opening ceremony was planned as a musical extravaganza featuring artists such as Martina McBride, Bret Michaels, the Commodores, Morris Day and the Time, Young MC, and Flo Rida. However, most performers withdrew, citing unawareness of the event's political undertones. Instead, attendees witnessed a campaign-style rally by Donald Trump, who reiterated claims that the US is the “hottest country anywhere in the world.” Ironically, the Virginia booth closed on Tuesday due to the major heat, and the fair itself was forced to close early on its second day because of a storm.
Media reactions were largely negative. MS Now described the event as “a rather embarrassing flop,” Slate called it “a big ol’ dud,” and the New Republic labeled it “miserable.” USA Today compared witnessing the fair’s failure to “watching your high school bully host a party that no one attends.” Fox News attempted to put a positive spin on the event, likening it to the White Star Line’s claim that passengers enjoyed a pleasant four days at sea before the Titanic disaster.
The fair’s disappointing turnout and operational difficulties contrast with other fairs recalled by the reporter, including a small-town event in northwest England and a village fete in Longton, where the main prize was won at bingo.
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