Summer is in the air in the Hudson Valley, and with it comes the return of one of the season’s most nostalgic to-dos. After all, who doesn’t have fond memories of childhood visits to the county fair? Throughout the region, local fests spotlight regional agriculture, delight with rides galore, and dish up the fair food we all know and love (fried Oreos, anyone?). Here are the dates to bookmark this season:
Orange County Fair
Middletown
July 20-30
One of the oldest fairs in New York is hosting a full line-up of concerts, including glam metal cover bands, in a recently renovated amphitheater.
Greene County Youth Fair
Cairo
July 27-30
This fair focuses on youth involvement in local agriculture and is free for all ages. Make sure to purchase tickets for the pig raffle on July 30—the winner will receive a whole pig’s worth of pork chops, bacon, and more.
Ulster County Fair
New Paltz
August 1-6
Come on the first day for “car load night”: Pay $50 for up to eight people in one vehicle (instead of the regular $20 per person).
Related: Here’s What to Do in the Hudson Valley This Week
Altamont Fair
Altamont
August 15-20
With horse shows, demolition derbies, local music, and 4-H exhibits, the Altamont Fairgrounds will have something for everyone.
Dutchess County Fair
Rhinebeck
August 22-27
Rhinebeck hosts the largest county fair in the HV (and second largest in the state). Catch a headlining concert by country singer Brantley Gilbert on August 23.
Columbia County Fair
Chatham
August 30 – September 4
Explore competitions of all kinds from duct tape fashion and talent shows to demolition derbies and ice cream-eating contests.
Schaghticoke Fair
Schaghticoke
August 30 – September 4
This fair’s opening day has a special deal: Admission for everyone is just $1!
Yorktown Grange Fair
Yorktown
September 8-10
Hosted by the Yorktown Grange Agricultural Society, this annual fair dates to 1924 and showcases local art, crafts, baking, livestock, and horticulture.
Related: Spend Your Summer at These Hudson Valley Craft Fairs
