PHOENIX– For generations, the Arizona State Fair has been a place for families to spend time enjoying rides, games and fair food. But as prices climb, that tradition is becoming harder for some families to afford.
Between admission, parking, food and attractions, a night at the fair can cost hundreds of dollars, leaving some Arizonans questioning whether the annual outing is still in their budget.
Phoenix resident and mom of three, Ashley Beck, feels the fair has gotten out of hand with its pricing, leading customers to spend money elsewhere.
“Bringing my kids to the fair has become extremely unaffordable and honestly after this visit I don't think I will be back until prices die down,” Beck said.
The Arizona State Fair has been much slower than usual during the opening weeks due to people like Beck turning away from the hefty prices. Unfortunately attendance has been an ongoing issue for the past few years, because customers are unwilling to pay unfair prices.
Prices have jumped across the board with admission prices now being $20 for adults, parking being anywhere from $20 to $62.74 and food prices being higher than ever.
Arizona State student Aline Gonzalez went to the fair on Thursday Oct. 8 when student admission only cost $5, however the prices throughout the night still damaged her bank account.
“I feel like you can’t leave the fair without spending a good $100 if not more, as a college student that isn’t easy,” Gonzalez said.
Although the fair has always been known as spendy, this year the costs are affecting visitors in a different way. Attendees at the fair have noticed shorter lines and little need for fast passes, and even fair officials say revenue is coming in slowly.
Chief Financial Officer Irene Robayo oversees the fair’s finances and has noticed that customers are making different financial choices.
“Income has been coming in a little slower this year,” Robayo said. “I think that in this economy it's hard to pay these prices, but that’s exactly why prices are going up. Unfortunately we have to make money too.”
The fair is offering $60 wristbands that include unlimited rides until 9 p.m. and two games. Guests and fair employees have noticed that many people prefer this option over spending money on tickets that may not last them throughout the night.
Even with this so-called “deal” fair visitors still feel like the prices are unreasonable, especially in today’s economy.
Throughout social media platforms, Arizona residents have been expressing their recent frustrations about the fair’s unfair pricing. Comment sections have been filled with criticism about the fair’s upcharges, leading people to find other sources of fun.
The Arizona State Fair is continually trying to bring customers in this season with $5 food Fridays and free entry with canned food donations. Five dollar food Fridays offer tasting-size portions from noon to 6 p.m. every Friday, however this, along with other deals, isn’t enough for attendees.
The prices add up, with food, parking, games, rides and entry all costing more than what most visitors can afford. This is why customers like Gonzalez and Beck are refusing to return until prices get into check.
The fair will be in town until Nov. 1 but with customers boycotting the fair, its overall success is in question.