Bring on the Fun

Americans have long gauged the nation's economic health by unorthodox measures — women's hemlines, alcohol consumption, divorce rates and now, it seems, attendance at state fairs and rodeos. Slumping markets be damned, summer fun remains a priority.

Whether it’s the relief of an air-conditioned arena, a smart staycation option or the allure of fairly priced beef tips, ticket sales are booming at these beloved events.

Karl Stressman, president of the Pro Rodeo Cowboys Association, tells MSNBC that historically rodeos thrive during economic downturns. But even with a recession in its second year, business is up. "We've had a continued growth pattern for the last 20 years, but this year it's phenomenal growth," Stressman said.

Stressman and another industry insider Randy Bernard, CEO of the bull riders' group, attribute the strong numbers to affordable ticket prices ($10 at most venues), easy rules to follow and the sport's family-friendly vibe.

But Andy Stewart, an announcer for Smith Pro Rodeos has another take on the pastime's allure. "Rodeos have evolved, but it's still about cowboys getting on animals or taming animals. It's dangerous. It's exciting. There's victory and there's defeat. Blood. It's unpredictable. There's a different twist around every corner. It's everything you want in entertainment. And, most of the time, when the crowd is really into it, there always seems to be a little magic inside a rodeo arena that people always remember."

And in Elkhart County, one of the nation's hardest-hit communities (unemployment is at 16.8 percent) appears undeterred. Fair-goers flooded the grounds at the community's 4-H Fair.

Another MSNBC report speaks of Vicki and Bart McGlinsey who have lived very frugally since she was laid off in January. They have cut every nonessential they can think of, but not the fair. "Believe it or not, this is the biggest thing we’ve done all year," said Vicki McGlinsey. "We never go anywhere."

Sentiments on the West Coast echo that of Elkhart. The 22-day San Diego County Fair offered half-price season tickets and one-day free admission for the unemployed (not bad). By the end of the month, organizers reported record attendance: 1.3 million.

Catherine McKnight, a fair vendor, speculated that this might very well be a vacation replacement.

And beneath the long list of legitimate reasons, lies the truth: There's nothing better than a little magic or the nostalgia of simpler times to distract us from a grim reality.

Photo courtesy of ReneS, via Flickr.