by The Great Frederick Fair 2025 is gearing up to be one of Maryland’s most anticipated events of the year. Known as the largest agricultural fair in the state, this annual celebration brings together farming traditions, community spirit, and modern entertainment.
For over 160 years, the fair has been a staple of Frederick County, offering visitors a chance to enjoy carnival rides, rodeo events, concerts, food, and educational exhibits. In 2025, the fair is expected to draw even bigger crowds, continuing its legacy as a premier destination for families, farmers, and fun-seekers alike.
Dates and Timings
- The fair runs from Friday, September 12 to Saturday, September 20, 2025.
- Gates open daily at 9 a.m. and remain open into the evening.
- The midway and carnival rides typically begin operating around noon and run late into the night.
- Evening concerts and entertainment events extend the fair’s schedule well into the evening hours, making it an ideal outing for both day visitors and night-time fairgoers.
- Daily schedules will feature livestock shows in the morning, midway excitement in the afternoon, and headline concerts or special events in the evenings.
Venue
- The fair is held at the Great Frederick Fairgrounds in Frederick, Maryland, a venue that has been home to the fair for generations.
- Conveniently located near major highways, the fairgrounds are easily accessible for visitors from across Maryland, Virginia, Pennsylvania, and Washington, D.C.
- The grounds are divided into distinct sections, including livestock barns, exhibit halls, carnival areas, food courts, and multiple performance stages.
- Parking areas and shuttle services are designed to accommodate the large crowds that gather during the nine-day event.
Rides and Rodeos
- The carnival midway is one of the biggest attractions at the Great Frederick Fair. Visitors can expect a mix of thrilling roller coasters, giant Ferris wheels, and family-friendly rides.
- Kiddie rides are available for younger children, ensuring entertainment for all age groups.
- Rodeo events remain a highlight of the fair, with bull riding, barrel racing, and roping competitions that bring authentic western energy to Maryland.
- Equine events, including horse shows and riding demonstrations, highlight Frederick County’s strong ties to farming and horsemanship.
- Motorsports events and demolition derbies add extra excitement, attracting large crowds for their high-energy action.
Entertainment
- The fair’s entertainment lineup includes national touring acts, particularly well-known country, rock, and pop musicians who perform on the main stage.
- Local and regional bands provide daily performances, offering a variety of genres from bluegrass to contemporary hits.
- Cultural showcases, dance troupes, comedy acts, and school performances highlight the diversity of talent across Maryland.
- Children’s entertainment includes interactive puppet shows, magicians, and hands-on activities designed to keep younger visitors engaged.
- Special competitions, contests, and pageants are held throughout the week, adding to the festive atmosphere.
Food and Drinks
- One of the biggest draws of the Great Frederick Fair is its food selection, featuring classic carnival favorites and local specialties.
- Visitors can indulge in corn dogs, funnel cakes, fried Oreos, cotton candy, and turkey legs.
- Maryland food traditions are well represented with pit beef sandwiches, crab cakes, and seafood specialties.
- Refreshing beverages like fresh-squeezed lemonade and milkshakes are available across the grounds, along with beer gardens for adults.
- Dozens of food vendors ensure that no visitor leaves the fair hungry, with options ranging from quick snacks to full meals.
Additional Facilities and Exhibits
- 4-H and FFA exhibits allow young people to showcase livestock, poultry, and agricultural projects, encouraging future generations of farmers.
- Livestock judging competitions feature cattle, pigs, sheep, goats, and horses, highlighting Maryland’s agricultural heritage.
- Arts and crafts exhibits showcase quilts, paintings, photography, woodworking, and handmade goods created by local residents.
- Culinary contests celebrate baking and cooking traditions, with displays of pies, cakes, preserves, and more.
- Educational exhibits teach children and families about farming, science, and conservation in an engaging way.
- Shopping vendors sell handmade crafts, home goods, and agricultural tools, offering a marketplace experience for visitors.
- Accessibility services, shaded seating areas, and family-friendly rest zones ensure that all guests can enjoy the fair comfortably.
Admission and Visitor Information
- Affordable ticket options make the fair accessible to families, students, and senior citizens.
- Discount days and family passes are typically offered to encourage attendance throughout the week.
- Special promotions may include free entry for children on select days or discounts for veterans and military personnel.
- Parking is available on-site, with additional shuttle services to help manage large crowds and ease visitor access.
Conclusion
The Great Frederick Fair 2025 is more than just an event—it’s a celebration of Maryland’s agriculture, culture, and community. From thrilling midway rides and heart-pounding rodeo events to delicious food and nationally recognized concerts, the fair provides nine days of nonstop excitement.
Families can explore livestock barns, children can enjoy hands-on exhibits, and adults can take in concerts and motorsports, all while sampling the best fair food Maryland has to offer. Whether you’re a local resident or a first-time visitor, the Great Frederick Fair is the perfect way to experience the charm, heritage, and entertainment that make Frederick County such a special place.
