Midway (fair)

Fair employee at balloon game

Midway refers to the central area of a fair, carnival, or amusement park where various attractions, games, and food vendors are located. The term "midway" originated from the World's Columbian Exposition held in Chicago in 1893, where the "Midway Plaisance" was the designated entertainment area.

History

The concept of the midway can be traced back to the World's Columbian Exposition in 1893. The Midway Plaisance was a mile-long strip that featured various forms of entertainment, including ferris wheels, sideshows, and international exhibits. This layout became a model for future fairs and carnivals.

Attractions

Midways typically feature a variety of attractions designed to entertain visitors of all ages. Common attractions include:

• Rides: These can range from classic carousels and ferris wheels to more modern thrill rides like roller coasters and drop towers.
• Games: Midways often have numerous game booths where visitors can try their luck at winning prizes. Popular games include ring toss, balloon darts, and whack-a-mole.
• Food vendors: A wide array of food options is usually available, including traditional fair foods like cotton candy, corn dogs, and funnel cakes.

Cultural Impact

The midway has become an iconic part of fairs and carnivals, symbolizing the fun and excitement associated with these events. It has been depicted in various forms of media, including films, television shows, and literature.

Modern Midways

Today, midways continue to be a central feature of fairs and carnivals around the world. They have evolved to include more advanced rides and games, as well as a greater variety of food options. Despite these changes, the core concept of the midway as a place of entertainment and enjoyment remains the same.

See also

• Carnival
• Amusement park
• World's Columbian Exposition
• Ferris wheel
• Sideshow