I think it's the sense of danger that draws people to watch a tractor pull. Some fairgoers get their thrills by running to, not away from, loud noises.
At its core, a tractor pull is a contest to determine whose tractor is the most powerful. Trucks, semis and hot rods also get in on the action. People like watching machines being pushed to the limit. The tractors create a lot of noise and belch smoke high into the air, but they are ultimately judged by how far they can pull the sled. Some go the distance; others burn out before they reach the halfway point.
While spectators can safely watch a tractor pull from their seats in the grandstands, everything before them is in motion. Besides the loud roar and plumes of smoke, modified tractor engines produce vibrations that can rattle your chest. Even outside the grandstands, the roar may be loud enough that fans have to cover their ears.
That was my experience last week as I was taking photos of the minis. With camera in hand, I tried covering one ear with my elbow. That didn't work very well. I should have worn earplugs.
One of the reasons people come to the fair is to escape reality. Most fairgoers might like the predictability of a Ferris wheel or the merry-go-round, but they love danger more—at least the perception of danger.
Watching a tractor pull is like viewing TV with a subwoofer on all three sides. Four of the five senses are engaged.
At the Elkhart County 4-H Fair, the tractor pull is one of the biggest draws of fair week. Cork Wagner, former tractor pull director, said the tractor pull transformed Thursday of fair week into the best attendance day of the week.
As the tractors screeched and roared last Thursday, many fairgoers felt safe enough to munch on their favorite snacks. This is the essence of entertainment, isn't it? To bask in comfort while watching drivers risk it all for prize money. This is what makes a good grandstand show. The crowd wants to experience being near danger without being in danger.
Not all fairgoers are this way, however. While the crowds flock to the tractor pull, there are many others who live somewhat dangerously every day and don't care for the thrills of the grandstand. These people prefer the quiet of the cattle barn or the comforts of their camper. The fair has a place for everyone.