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America's Melting Pot
Lemon Shake-Ups hero image coming soon
1900-1929 - State fair vendors and carnival concessionaires in early 20th century America
Lemon Shake-Ups are a refreshing, roadside fair drink made by shaking fresh lemon slices, sugar, and ice together to create an icy, tart beverage popular at early 20th century American state fairs and carnivals.
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Difficulty
Easy
Prep time
5 minutes
Cook time
0 minutes
Total time
5 minutes
Servings
1 serving
Region
Indiana and Midwestern county-fair lemon shake-up stands
Era introduced
1900-1929
Introduced by
State fair vendors and carnival concessionaires in early 20th century America
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Emerging in the first decades of the 20th century, Lemon Shake-Ups were a popular treat at American state fairs, carnivals, and lunch counters. Made by vigorously shaking fresh lemon slices with sugar and ice in a paper cup, this simple drink offered refreshment at roadside stands and community gatherings, capturing a blend of immigrant innovation and grassroots American enjoyment.
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