Blue Ribbons: Why They are so Iconic

From politics to awareness, blue ribbons have been around for a long time. Throughout the year, colored ribbons, especially blue ribbons, celebrate and honor many occasions and holidays. Each ribbon, whether a badge ribbon, a ribbon roll or a rosette ribbon, can stand for different things depending on colors.

But, unlike any other color, blue is prominent as being the most iconic. Just like every other color, blue ribbons represent many things. From first place at a county fair to showing support for the ACLU, these ribbons are spotted all around the world.

Blue ribbons are a symbol of high quality.

The association comes from The Blue Riband, a prize awarded for the fastest crossing of the Atlantic Ocean by passenger liners and, prior to that from Cordon Bleu, which referred to the blue ribbon worn by a particular order of knights.

blue ribbons are worn for awareness of many diseases and also for specific causes

From New York Fashion Week to award shows like the Oscars, models, actors and other celebrities wear these blue ribbons to show their support. This support goes to not only causes but to groups and charities that support them.

Other ribbon colors have a part in this awareness. However, blue is the most iconic.

blue ribbons are given at state fairs and sporting events to recognize winners for achievements

Blue (this comprises all shades): trust, loyalty, wisdom, confidence, protection, intelligence, tranquility, integrity, healing, understanding and devotion.

Meaning/Awareness: cancer, assault and abuse, natural disaster victims, drunk driving, dystonia, education, anti-tobacco, arthritis, free speech and water quality.

Receiving a blue ribbon is quite the honor. At fairs, those with the biggest crop or the best looking livestock receive a ribbon to recognize their achievement. The same typically goes with winning at a sporting event. The winner receives a blue ribbon while runners up receive other colors.

And while blue remains the iconic winning color, other colors are sure to impress as well.

State and County Fair Ribbons

From pies and other baked goods to award wining hogs and horses, no state or county fair is complete without great fair ribbons!

It’s that time of year again when the harvest is starting and the state and county fairs are showing off their wares. From shows and games to baked goods and larger-than-life vegetables, everyone deserves some sort of ribbon. Here are few suggestions if you don’t already have fair ribbons to call your own.

state and county fair ribbons for all award types and contestantsClassic Ribbons

These wonderful, flat ribbons are just perfect for that pie eating contest! Or they can be given for prize winning livestock, animal trick shows or other baked goods that are out of this world. Choose from a variety of titles and award positions, or create your own. With fun, vibrant colors, these ribbons are sure to please even the pickiest of winners.

Badge Ribbons

While these ribbons are simple, when customized to meet your needs, they can provide the recognition someone yearns for. Badge ribbons also provide instant recognition to those who are running the show. With stock and custom names and titles available, this simple solution is one of the best.

state and county fair ribbons for all award types and contestantsRosette Ribbons

This classic ribbon is always a great standby for the fair! With the beautiful tops and long streamers, everyone covets one of these beauties. Again, these are perfect for that prize winning livestock. And those pies and cakes that are to-die-for are all longing for the recognition that one of these special rosette ribbons gives.

Rosette ribbons are seen everywhere at the fair. From giant pumpkins to those cute little baby piglets, they are truly the classic touch at your local state or county fair. There are plenty of titles and stock ribbons to choose from. Or, make your own custom fair ribbons. They can have any title or honor imprinted to meet all of your needs.

Have you ever won state or county fair ribbons? If so, what was it for? We’d love to hear your story!