I've been to state fairs in Iowa, Wisconsin and Minnesota and most seem to be in the their respective state capital so it's not really in a rural setting like a county fair would be. Nonetheless they are still enjoyable. Iowa has the "butter cow" also. Lots of great food and the talent try-outs are fun to watch. As far as main talent, I've seen the Beach Boys there and Manhattan Transfer up in Minnesota. Can't think of a better way to watch a performance than a nice summer nite outside.