The most common and most likely answer to this crossword clue is the 9 letter word SIDESHOWS
I've seen this crossword clue in Independent
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More clues leading to the result SIDESHOWS
Buddy explains!
The straight part
We know that "fairground attractions" is the straight/definition part of the clue. The straight part is often a synonym or definition, in this case fairground attractions = sideshows.The cryptic/wordplay part
In cryptic crossword there's often an wordplay/cryptic part as well.This part involves a more complex hint, such as an anagram, homophone, hidden word, etc.
Sadly, We don't have an explanation for this specific crossword clue yet.
What does SIDESHOWS mean?
SIDESHOWS noun- A minor attraction at a larger event such as a circus, fair, music festival or similar
- An incidental spectacle that diverts attention from a larger concern
- An incident in which drivers block traffic to perform donuts for an extended period of time