From Cucumbers to Korean Corn Dogs: Nebraska State Fair serves up tradition and adventure

The Nebraska State Fair is known for many things — agriculture, entertainment, and community spirit — but nothing gets fairgoers talking (or posting) quite like the food. For 2025, the Fair’s concessions lineup blends bold new flavors with time-honored favorites, offering something for every craving.

“There’s no shortage of new and unique options at this year’s Nebraska State Fair,” said Keaton Irwin, Sales Director. “Fairgoers should get ready for some bold new flavors, like Peanut Butter & Jelly Chicken Wings, a Sausage S’mores Skewer, Deep Fried Oatmeal Cream Pie, Korean Corn Dogs, Lobster Mac & Cheese, and the Nebraska Sunset Funnel Cake — a colorful, delicious option that’s also completely gluten-free. Of course they will also need a brand-new Nebraska State Fair souvenir refillable cup from Freund Family Foods, it’s a fun way to stay cool and hydrated while enjoying the Fair.”

One of the most talked-about snacks is making its return: stuffed locally grown cucumbers prepared by a Nebraska concessionaire. 

“Stuffed cucumbers have become a true Nebraska State Fair favorite,” Irwin said. “While not something you’ll find at every fair, they’ve earned their spot as a must-have here — especially on hot fair days. It seems so simple … but fairgoers can’t get enough.”

For Irwin, the magic of fair food lies in its variety. 

“Of course I’m biased because I get to work with all of these great vendors, but I really do think fair food makes a fair great,” he explained. “You’ve got those classic staples you have to grab every year — like a Crutchfield Concessions Corndog — but then there’s always something completely unexpected that stops you in your tracks, like a donut grilled cheese. It’s odd … it kind of makes sense? It’s something you can laugh about later and say you got to try.”

For those looking to make the most of their midday break, the Nebraska State Fair has the Lunch Bunch Promo on Wednesday, Thursday, and Friday of the Fair. From 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., guests can purchase a full-price admission ticket at the gate and receive a food voucher equal to the value of their gate admission — absolutely free. For example, buy a $12 admission ticket at 11 a.m. and get a $12 food voucher to use toward trying a new Fair food.

With hundreds of food vendors across the grounds — from Nebraska Cattlemen Beef Pit prime rib sandwich to inventive twists like deep-fried alligator and bison cheesesteak— the Nebraska State Fair is once again a destination for both comfort food lovers and culinary thrill-seekers.

Check out the Nebraska State Fair on Facebook and Instagram for more updates regarding unique foods and concessionaires that can accommodate dietary restrictions.

The 2025 Nebraska State Fair offers all fairgoers the chance to Showcase Your Fair Face, August 22 through September 1 at Fonner Park in Grand Island. The fair has drawn more than 4 million visitors to its home in Grand Island since 2010. More information about agricultural events and competitions, carnival entertainment, and other musical performances is available at www.StateFair.org.