Pennsylvania County Fairs

Kids trying to catch a greased pig, blue-ribbon cherry pie, fresh-picked corn on the cob dripping with butter... It’s all wrapped in the sights and sounds of a good, old Pennsylvania county fair.

Some are bright and gaudy and jammed with rides, animals and people; others recall times when country folk got together to celebrate the harvest; and most showcase great musical entertainment.

Pennsylvania offers more fairs than one can attend, but won’t blame you for trying!

Are you a music fan? Event if you're not you'll want to attend the 153rd Annual Clearfield County Fair July 29 — August 4, where multiple artists will be performing throughout the week-long fair. Check out budding artists Brantley Gilbert and Victoria Justice,  the legendary rock group Lynryd Skynrd and the Bottom Shelf Blues Band, as well as a host of other entertainers including Grandpa Cratchet, the loveable, high energy old timer from yesteryear, who will perform daily. If you’re lucky you’ll catch him wandering around the fairgrounds, his antics leaving laughter and smiles in his wake. For more information on all the fun fair events taking place throughout the week, click here.

The 91st Annual South Mountain Fair, August 20-24 in Arendtsville, Adams County, kicks off with a baked goods sale to benefit local charities and showcases a different country music artist every night, for free! Animal judging will take place on a daily basis — bring the kids to see the best farm animals around! Vendor displays will feature photography, fruits and vegetables, flowers and more. You won't want to miss the Battle of the Bands featuring the area’s best rock bands on August 21st or the fireworks on August 22.

Pack up your camping gear and stay the week of August 22-29 in Grange Park for the Centre County Grange Encampment and Fair. Every year, families camp out to be close to the action, building a veritable city of colorful tents on the fairgrounds. Reserve your spot and enjoy a traditional fair full of concerts, fun rides, delicious food and games, and come away having experienced one of the most unique and friendly “towns” in America!

Join the residents of Danville in southwestern Montour County at the Iron Heritage Festival, July 19 — 23 to celebrate its rich history and traditions. The first iron Foundry was founded here; the first Anthracite furnace to efficiently produce iron was opened here; and the first T-rail was produced nearby, allowing the United States to become the leader in the industrial revolution.  Take part in the Mason Jar Auction, see strolling entertainers, listen to live music, attend presentations on local history and culture - and you won’t want to miss the fireworks!

Pennsylvania is known for its covered bridges — see the bridges of Columbia County at the 32nd Annual Covered Bridge and Arts Festival, October 3-6, on the grounds of Knoebels Amusement Park. In addition to the covered bridge bus tour, you won’t want to miss the quilt raffle or the Fun Auction where professional auctioneers auction off more than 350 items donated by festival crafters. Be sure to visit their booths along with those of the 35 food vendors for a fun and delicious time. Select rides including the park’s award-winning Grand Carousel will be open each day for festival-goers, so grab that brass ring and enjoy!

If you find yourself in the Hershey-Harrisburg region of PA and are looking for some outdoor entertainment, look no farther. Sample over 20 craft brews and a variety of gourmet foods from local restaurants and enjoy live music by J.O.D. and Shea Quinn & Swish at Dauphin County’s first annual BrewFest at Fort Hunter Park on July 20. Harrisburg’s annual Cultural Fest is on August 2 and features national and local recording artists, ethnic food and dance, crafts and a Kid’s Corner.  On September 8 and 9 you won’t want to miss the Dauphin County Jazz & Wine Festival at Fort Hunter Mansion and Park. Bring your lawn chairs and a blanket, and enjoy the entertainment of national and local recording artists.

Local Resources:

To find out more information on the cities and regions the fairs mentioned above are in, check out:

Clearfield County Columbia County Hershey-Harriburg Region of PA Dauphin County

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