At fairs, almost anything that can be—and that includes Oreo© cookies and even butter—is battered and deep fried. For the fastest-to-eat fast food, these always-fun treats are served on a stick. George Geary recounts the obscure history of how, and why, these decadent foods became a part of Americana.

For 28 years, Geary was the Culinary Coordinator of the Los Angeles County fair—the country’s largest—and likewise the pastry chef at Disneyland. His most recent book, Fair Foods, is his 11th, following his acclaimed L.A.’s Legendary Restaurants. Currently Geary is working on his 13th book, on historical iconic foods from California. He often appears on Hallmark’s Home and Family Channel and CBS San Diego, to say nothing of his website www.georgegeary.com, and he has led Frommer award-winning tours of the South of France for the 33 seasons.

Fair Foods will be available at a reception/book signing following the program.