Familiar Fall Tradition Of Tulsa State Fair Adapts For COVID-19

The Tulsa State Fair is smaller and different this year, but you can still get the classic fair food favorites.

Fair visitors said they’re glad to have some sense of normalcy, even if that’s as simple as their annual turkey leg. There may not be rides or huge crowds, but the smell of funnel cakes and corn dogs and sounds of excitement still make it feel like fall at the Tulsa State Fair.

Mehgane Lewellyn and sons Quinn and Collin said they miss a few things like Disney on Ice, but they are making this year count.

"We're going to make the most of it, eat some food and see some animals," she said.

"This is a chocolate dipped ice cream with some Oreo and it's amazing," said Bekeyl Slaughter.

The Tulsa State Fair has about a dozen food vendors, some agriculture vendors, a Ford exhibit, and their livestock show this year. There's also a DJ and live music.

Masks are required, and there are signs reminding people to social distance and sanitize their hands.

"There's a lot of activity going on, and making the most of the unique situation," said Amanda Blair, the fair COO.

"This will be about 48 years for us at the Tulsa State Fair," said Chico Harper.

Chico Harper is the man behind Hardenbrook's Concession, serving up turkey legs year after year. He said they usually have nine stands at the Tulsa State Fair, but this year, they're down to just this one.

"We come here with a lot of stands and expect to do a lot of business, but we're happy to be here and don’t forget about us," Harper said.

Visitors like Bekeyl Slaughter said that's exactly why she's here.

"Come out and support, they need the support," said Slaughter.

The fair is open from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. every day through Sunday and admission is $5.00.