ASSOCIATION • From the OABA Chair Chair’s Message Blake Huston, OABA Chair 2025


Dear Bumper Car Diplomats, Corn Dog Captains, Balloon Dart Bandits and Proud Keepers of the Midway...


Y


ou’ve mastered the art of thrilling crowds — but now it’s time to brave the wildest ride yet: social media. No wristband required, just Wi- Fi and a little hustle.


For over a century, the backbone of the carnival


industry has been grit, tradition, and showman- ship. But in today’s digital-first world, even the most just


time-honored midway must compete not for ticket sales — but for screen time. For


OABA members across the amusement business, understanding and leveraging social media isn’t just marketing — it’s mission critical.


Why It Matters to OABA Members From ride operators and food vendors to event or-


ganizers and equipment suppliers, the industry’s collective reputation, attendance, and economic health increasingly hinge on how the public per- ceives us online. A single viral video can fill a lot or empty it. The stakes are real. Social media now functions as:


A digital midway: Instagram Reels, Facebook


Events, and TikTok trends act as online extensions of the show — where guests “arrive” before they even buy a ticket.


A reputation engine: Safety, cleanliness, profes-


sionalism, and family-friendly appeal are scrutinized through the lens of user-generated content and customer reviews. A recruitment tool: Younger workers are


more likely to respond to job posts shared on social media than traditional help-wanted signs.


Platform Breakdown for the Industry Facebook remains vital for route announcements,


community group engagement, and building fami- ly-friendly credibility.


It’s especially effective for con-


necting with local fairgoers and repeat attendees. Instagram highlights visual appeal — rides,


lights, food, and atmosphere — perfect for reach- ing younger families and millennials. TikTok is thebreakoutplatformfor viral


reach. Short-form content showcasing reactions, humor, and behind-the-scenes antics can elevate your show’s visibility far beyond your immediate market.


   |  YouTube serves as an archive for ride footage, walk-


throughs, safety features, and even operator profiles — building trust and transparency.


B


Best Practices for Trade Operators


Stay consistent: Post regularly. Dormant ac-


counts suggest a dormant show. Go behind the curtain: Audiences love see- ing ride setups, refurbishments, and team mem-


bers. It adds humanity and authenticity. Monitor and respond: Address comments and re-


views promptly. Public interaction shapes brand trust. Train or designate a content lead: Even a younger seasonal employee can be your best digital asset with a


a phone and a little guidance.


Risks & Responsibilities Increased exposure brings scrutiny. A minor


safety complaint or poorly handled guest experi- ence can gain traction fast. That’s why it’s essen- tial that OABA members work together to promote professional standards, support positive messag- ing, and report misleading or damaging content when necessary.


Just as we share ideas and workforce resources, theret


’s growing value in sharing best practices for digital conduct and promotion — through our vari- ous associations or peer-to-peer mentorship.


The Bigger Picture Social media is not a fad — it’s the new frontier


for audience connection. For OABA members, it’s also a strategic business tool: one that can increase bookings, attract new partners, reinforce safety and professionalism, and keep our tradition alive in the mod- ern world.


As the midway continues to evolve, so must we. From lot lines to timelines, the tools may be chang- ing — but the heart of the business stays the same. At the OABA, we’re proud to support the tra-


ditions that built this business, while embracing the technology that will carry it forward.


See you down the road, Blake


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