Whether you’re a fan of creative fried foods, amazing animals, or exciting amusement park rides, there are many reasons to attend the Washington County Fair when it comes to town. Founded in 1840, this local community event has grown into New York’s #1 agricultural county fair, attracting visitors from near and far each year.
On August 19-25, join the fun at the 2019 Washington County Fair and experience the perfect combination of new and old traditions.
Learn About Local Farm Animals & the Area’s Strong Agricultural Roots
Attend Livestock Shows Featuring the Best of the Best
Local farm animals are at the heart of the Washington County Fair, as livestock shows and contests have been a part of it since the beginning.
The bond between kids and the animals they’ve cared for is strong and on full display in the youth exhibits and shows, which include cattle, sheep, rabbits, and more. There are also open shows that kids and adults can participate in and spotlight animals with different characteristics.
These events are excellent opportunities to meet the region’s livestock and learn about each role they play in the agricultural industry.
Witness the Miracle of Life at The Big Push
Farming and animals are an essential part of Washington County, and on Saturday, August
24, and Sunday, August 25, you’ll have the chance to witness the miracle of life unfold
at The Big Push Birthing Center. The Big Push is located inside the dairy judging tent, and it was designed to give fair-goers a first-hand look at the beauty of new life that farmers see.
Although Mother Nature can sometimes interfere, the hope is that there will be six dairy cow births over the weekend. From 10:00am-10:00pm on Saturday and Sunday, visitors can stop by The Big Birth to watch the cows and ask volunteers questions about how the animals are cared for and raised.
Sip, Sample & Savor the Food and Drinks
Feast on Mouthwatering Fried Fair Treats
When you’re feeling hungry at the Washington County Fair, just follow your nose to the nearest food vendor. The fair takes pride in offering a variety of options for everyone, whether you’re craving a sweet snack or a hearty lunch.
From traditional treats like funnel cakes, giant sticky buns, and cream-filled doughnuts to sausage and pepper sandwiches, hamburgers, and fries, you could try something different every day of the week-long event. Not only that, but the vendors work closely with the region’s farms to use local ingredients and products as much as they can.
The Washington County Fair only happens once a year, so indulge in some of your favorite foods.
Try a Taste of Washington County’s Bounty
Washington County is home to a wide range of farms and craft beverage producers, and a variety of them will be featured at the fair’s popular County Bounty Building.
Located on the fairgrounds, the County Bounty Building is a special area where visitors can meet the people behind the region’s products, hear their stories, try food and drinks, and participate in hands-on activities. One of the most exciting additions to the 2019 fair is the opportunity to purchase locally-made craft beverages by the glass on Tuesday, August 20, and Friday, August 23.
Other highlights at the building will include presentations on homestead farming on Wednesday, August 21, and Sunday, August 25, a wine and cheese demonstration on Tuesday, August 20, and fiber activities for kids on Thursday, August 22.
Enjoy a Wide Range of Spectacular Family Entertainment
Head to the Midway For Amusement Rides & Games Of Skill
Take a stroll through the midway and check out all the fantastic attractions at the fair. Presented by Amusements of America, the fair midway is always full of fun amusement rides for both kids and adults. While some are thrilling, others are family friendly and great for junior riders. Prepare for colorful displays, flashing lights, and music that will have you smiling in no time.
When you need a short break from all the rides, step right up to the games of skill or chance and see if you can win a prize to bring home.
Listen, Dance & Sing to Toe-Tapping Live Music & Entertainment
Music lovers rejoice! Daily admission to the Washington County Fair gets you access to all the concerts by this year’s lineup of bands and musicians.
Local artist Jeff Williams will perform nightly from Tuesday, August 20 through Sunday, August 25 at 7:00pm, The Greene Brothers (with special guest Smokey Greene) will take the stage on Monday, August 19, at 8:00pm, and Big Sky Country will entertain audiences on Saturday, August 24 at 8:00pm – just to name a few!
Cheer For Your Favorite Driver at Demolition Derbies & Tractor/Truck Pulls
Are you ready to experience heart-pounding excitement? Make your way to the Motorsports Arena and cheer on the drivers in the demolition derbies, tractor pulls, and truck pulls.
Motorsports have become a major part of county fairs, and the Washington County Fair is no exception. Demolition derbies feature drivers who compete by ramming their cars into each other in an attempt to have the last operating vehicle. The tractor and truck pulls are about putting the pedal to the metal and finding out which vehicle can pull a heavy sled or object the farthest.
This year, demolition derbies will take place on Monday, August 19, and Sunday, August 25, tractor pulls will be held from Wednesday, August 21 through Saturday, August 24, and truck pulls will occur on Wednesday, August 21 and Thursday, August 22.
Take Advantage of the Fair’s Admission Specials
It’s time to plan your trip to the 2019 Washington County Fair! General fair admission is $12 for adults and free for kids age 13 and under. Parking is free, and depending on which day you visit, there may be special admission and fair discounts.
Please note that carnival ride tickets are separate from general fair admission, and during the week, it will cost $20 for 20 tickets.
On Tuesday, August 20, Friday, August 23, and Sunday, August 25 (hand-stamp days), the fair will offer unlimited carnival rides for only $25 from noon until closing. Other specials will include:
- Senior Day (Wednesday, August 21) – Admission is $6 for seniors age 62 and over.
- Veteran’s Day (Thursday, August 22) – Admission is $6 for veterans with an ID. A special ceremony honoring Vietnam War veterans will be held in Entertainment Tent #1 at 6:00pm.
- Children’s Day (Thursday, August 22) – Kids school age and younger receive free admission to the fair; carnival ride costs are reduced by one ticket.
By combining the best in food, animal shows, rides, and music, the Washington County Fair has become a can’t-miss event of the summer. Mark your calendar for August 19-25 and prepare to gather up the family for a week of fun!
