By South Carolina State Fair Marketing Team
Based on an interview conducted by Mercedes Dubberly
As dusk settles over the fairgrounds, the midway begins to glow.
The Ferris wheel lights up the skyline. Music drifts through the air. The swoosh of rides mixes with laughter and excited chatter as families and friends make their way from game booths to thrill rides. For many guests, this lively scene is the South Carolina State Fair.
But behind every flashing light and spinning wheel is a massive operation led by North American Midway Entertainment (NAME), the official midway provider for the South Carolina State Fair and one of the largest traveling midway companies in North America.
Each year, NAME brings dozens of rides, games, and attractions to Columbia — along with a dedicated team of professionals who travel from fair to fair, helping create unforgettable experiences for millions of guests.
A Carefully Choreographed Operation
Long before opening day, planning begins. Ride placement isn’t just about creating excitement – it’s a strategic process that balances guest flow, visibility, power access, and safety. Thrill rides and family rides are intentionally spaced to encourage guests to explore the entire midway while keeping traffic moving comfortably.
Once crews arrive on site, setup becomes a full-scale production. Heavy equipment, tractors, and skilled operators work together to assemble towering rides and intricate attractions in just a few days. Each morning during the Fair, rides undergo routine inspections before opening to ensure everything is operating properly.
Safety is always the top priority, supported by consistent communication among NAME leadership, ride operators, and Fair staff. It’s a true partnership — one that keeps the midway running smoothly from opening bell to closing time.
Life on the Road
NAME operates multiple traveling units across North America, with crews following seasonal routes from early spring through late fall. Many midway workers live in RVs or nearby accommodations while on location, forming close-knit communities as they move from city to city.
For some, it’s a lifelong career. For others, it’s a unique way to see the country while being part of something special.
Corporate Marketing Director Lynda Franc has been traveling with NAME since 2019, visiting different fairs throughout the season to support teams and share best practices.
“A lot of our staff travel with a particular unit,” Franc said. “They follow their route from event to event, and everyone plays a role in making sure guests have a great experience.”
She emphasizes that success on the midway comes from teamwork – operators, managers, mechanics, and Fair partners all working together behind the scenes.
What Makes the S.C. State Fair Stand Out
After visiting more than 120 events each year, Franc says the South Carolina State Fair holds a special place.
“It’s one of my favorite places to go,” she shared. “There’s something really special about the atmosphere here – from the hospitality to the guests. And I’ll admit, I look forward to the barbecue every time.”
For NAME, the South Carolina State Fair represents more than just another stop on the route. It’s a long-standing partnership built on trust, collaboration, and a shared commitment to creating memorable moments.
Creating Smiles, One Ride at a Time
From children riding their first Ferris wheel to friends daring each other onto thrill rides, NAME crews take pride in being part of those joyful experiences.
“Our slogan is ‘Gonna make you smile,’” Franc said. “And that’s what we strive to do every single day.”
While fairgoers may remember the lights, the rides, and the excitement, it’s the hardworking teams behind the scenes who bring the midway to life — traveling thousands of miles each year to help turn ordinary fairgrounds into extraordinary memories.