Fall is in the air, but there’s still time to enjoy funnel cake and carnival rides at a nearby county fair. Take a look at which county fairs are happening in September, and create the last bits of summer memories for the year!

Prince George’s County Fair 
Dates: September 8 – 11
Location: Show Place Arena

The Prince George County fair has been ongoing since 1842, making it the longest running fair in the state of Maryland. The fair started out as a friendly gathering to showcase local farmers’ products but grew to include women’s arts such as best jellies, pies, jams, clothing, quilts, and handicrafts. The Prince George County Fair encourages everyone from the 5 Southern Maryland Counties (and D.C. area) to enter the competitions for best photography, basket making, woodworking, fine arts, and more. This year, the fair includes pony rides, a petting farm, a NASCAR Simulator, pig races, live bands, DJs, carnival rides, and more! For more detailed information and ticket prices, please see the website.

Anne Arundel County Fair 
Dates: September 14 – 18
Location: Anne Arundel County Fairgrounds, 1490 General’s Highway (Route 178), Crownsville, MD

The Anne Arundel County Fair has been ongoing since 1952 when it was established by Mrs. Lee of Annapolis and continues to provide entertainment for all ages. This year’s fair includes live music, comedy shows, animal exhibits, a talent show, and fun for the whole family. For a more detailed schedule and ticket prices, please see the website.

Charles County Fair 
Dates: September 15 – 18
Location: 8440 Fairground Road La Plata, Maryland

The Charles County Fair has been a tradition in the county since 1924 and prides itself on celebrating 358 years of agriculture history. The fair includes four stages full of live music, pig races, pony rides, a baby show, performances that are fun for all ages, and recently added Lawnmower racing! Several food vendors will be present, including traditional county fair food, a healthier alternative, and even crab cakes! For ticket prices and full event schedule, please visit the website.

Frederick County Fair 
Dates: September 16 – 24
Location: Frederick Fairgrounds, 797 E. Patrick St. Frederick, Maryland

The Frederick County Fair prides itself on being the oldest agricultural fair in the state of Maryland. Dating back to 1822, the fair has changed and evolved into what it is today. The fair features live bands, carnival rides, agricultural events, contests, food, and much more. Special events include Skid steer Rodeo and  Go-Kart racing; rules and regulations for specific events can be found on the website. For a full list of events and ticket prices, please visit the website.

The Calvert County Fair 
Dates: September 28 – October 2
Location: Calvert County Fairgrounds 140 Calvert Fair Rd. Prince Frederick, MD

The Calvert County Fair was first held in 1886 and used to display cattle and tobacco, with occasional horse racing. Although there is little information known about the fair in its early years, it is widely believed that the fair was used as a small social gathering. During the twenties and thirties, it was decided that the fair should have some educational purpose as well, and farmers were encouraged to attend and promote the event. This crucial change helped the fair evolve into what it is today.  This year, the fair will include parades, Calvert County Idol, the crowning of the King and Queen, cattle shows, livestock auctions, corn hole tournaments, and an appearance by the Washington Redskins, who will be signing autographs. For a full schedule and ticket information, please visit the website.

Written by: Katie Byrnes