If you want to take in some rides at the fair, plan in investing in a ride band. While it does cost $18, the band will allow you to enjoy an unlimited amount of rides, excluding the fun house and pony rides. Since tickets cost $1.25 each and most rides require three to four tickets, the band is a better value. Fair rides are open from 1 to 10:30 p.m., according to fair officials.
Food can be another costly expense at the fair. According to the Butler County Fair book, there are no rules and regulations against bringing in your own food or drinks.
I saw many families carting around coolers full of bottled water — a great way to save since buying one at a booth will cost at least $2. Alcoholic beverages are prohibited.
Games can be another money pit. What may appear a simple game of skill can be deceiving.
To determine if a carnival game is fair, observe other people playing the game for several minutes to see how many people actually win the game compared to the number of people who play it. When a player appears to come close to winning several times, but can’t quite do it, this is probably not the game for you.
Race games, like the squirt gun games, that guarantee a winner are safer bets for a prize.
Remember not to spend too much just to win an item that will likely be clutter on the shelf in a few months. There is no sense spending $30 on a game where the prize could be bought for $5 elsewhere.
For more bargains, savings tips and freebies, visit the Here’s the Deal blog online at journal-news.com/go/bargains. or middletownjournal.com/go/bargains
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