I don’t know about you, but one of my favorite things to do in the summer is go to local fairs. A key part of the experience is the food. These days, carnival cuisine is a lot more exciting than just cotton candy and corn dogs. See what exciting eats were found at fairs around the country, courtesy of Food & Wine Magazine!

Arizona: Mealworm-Covered Caramel Apples
Along with deep-fried crickets, the Arizona Exposition & State Fair’s Chef du’ Jour booth sold caramel apples dipped in mealworms last year. Phoenix, Oct. 12-Nov. 4.

Texas: Fried Beer
Even alcohol can be fried when it’s pocketed in pretzel dough. The food innovation won the 2010 Big Tex Choice Awards at the Texas State Fair. Dallas, Sep. 28-Oct. 21.

Kansas: Pickle Pops
The Kansas State Fair’s answer to a freezer pop-filled with briny pickle juice-is a chilling, supersour pairing for the region’s famous barbecue. Hutchinson, Sep. 7-16.

For more unique fair feast offerings, click here!