Every August, the Skowhegan State Fair is held in Skowhegan, Maine, offering agricultural exhibits and competitions as well as simple and affordable fun for the whole family. The fair was first organized in 1818, which makes it over 200 years old. The oldest fair in the country features traditional attractions like Demolition Derbies, Truck Pulls, Harness Racing, Tractor Pulling, Horse Pulling, Livestock Shows, Midway Rides, Barrel Racing, Doodlebug Pulling, Mutton Bustin, and much more.

Schedule

The Skowhegan State Fair spans ten lively days, featuring an art and craft fair, enticing food booths, and nightly live music. Since 2003, it has offered a camping area with water and electricity for up to 200 campers. Gates open at 7 am, with halls welcoming visitors from noon until 10 pm. The midway, vendors, and concessions start at 1 pm. Livestock events and shows run all day, starting early, highlighting the region's agricultural traditions. It's a vibrant celebration of community and entertainment for all ages.

Tickets

Day passes are available for $10 to $15, while children ten and under enjoy free admission. Infield parking is convenient at $5 per car per day, and for those planning frequent visits, season passes are priced at $80 or $130 with parking included. Harness racing enthusiasts can opt for a special pass ranging from $40 to $75.

History of Skowhegan State Fair

Since its inception in 1818 by the Somerset Central Agricultural Society, the Skowhegan Fair has grown into a venerable institution, now known as the Skowhegan State Fair since 1942. Originally held in January 1819, it quickly became Somerset County's largest gathering, focusing on livestock breeding and agricultural advancements. Over two centuries, the fair has evolved to showcase everything from horse racing and farm machinery to modern entertainment. Despite challenges like fires in 1934 and 1999, the fairgrounds have rebounded with community support, ensuring it remains a beloved tradition attracting visitors nationwide.

The current fairgrounds were acquired in 1856, and with the flow of time, the original boundaries were expanded as additional acreage became available. The site has been gathering generations to get a glimpse of marvels like new farm machinery, talking machines, the early automobile, airplanes, motorcycles, bicycles, and other objects promising better living. 60,000 fairgoers annually visit the fair.