Fair Season in Maine is Here! Our Top 5 Must-Visit Fairs for Locals & Visitors

After the Fourth of July, we start to realize the end of summer is near. The back to school shopping signs are up and the fall sports schedules are starting to come out for August, but in Maine, it also means another season is coming - and that’s fair season. From small town fairs to large county fairs, we have it all here in Maine.

Check out our top picks for Maine fairs in the coming months including one in our own hometown here in Monmouth below.

1. Monmouth Fair | July 30 - August 2 in Monmouth, Maine 

Our hometown fair bills itself as “A little fair with a lotta pull!” This fun fair takes place just a short trek down the road from our store  on Main Street. It’s got just enough rides to keep the kids happy, entertainment nightly to keep the adults happy, and all the fun agricultural activities that you’d expect to take place at a fair in Maine.

Nearby Activities: Cumston Hall (famous for plays), Bates Mill Store (Don’t miss our Tent Sale on Opening Day - July 30th!)

2. Topsham Fair | August 4 - August 9 in Thompson, Maine 

2015 marks the 161st anniversary of the Topsham Fair, and its long history and experience shows in its not-to-miss variety of activities. This larger fair includes all the expected rides, agricultural exhibits, and entertainment but also features a popular demolition derby and stunt cars. Be sure to check the schedule on their website to make sure you don’t miss your favorite part as the schedule varies each day. 

Nearby Activities: Freeport (famous for LL Bean and outlet shopping)

3. Windsor Fair | August 30 - September 7 in Windsor, Maine

Back to 1888, the Windsor Fair is one you’ll want to add to your calendar. Attendance is expected to reach more than 150,000 this year so not only will you get your fill of fair activities, but you’ll also have a great opportunity to make new friends. Sprawling over 275 acres, you may want to consider keeping the kids close on this one to ensure they - or you - don’t get lost.

Nearby Activities: Hussey’s General Store (Maine’s Largest General Store) 

4. Common Ground Fair | September 25 - September 27 in Unity, Maine

The Common Ground Fair is one of the state’s most famous fairs and is often a favorite fall tradition for Mainers and New Englanders alike. The fair prides itself on bringing together people from all walks of level to celebrate the rural and agricultural traditions that make Maine special. Fridays are free for student groups so it’s often a popular place for a fall field trip for students throughout Maine.

Nearby Activities: Lake St. George State Park (Begin your day or wrap it up with a hike)

 5. Fryeburg Fair | October 4 - October 11 in Fryeburg, Maine

The Fryeburg Fair is Maine’s largest agricultural fair spanning over 6 days in the first week of October. Nestled in the foothills of the White Mountains, it gives you an opportunity for a scenic drive through some of the most beautiful parts of New England during the autumn season. Be sure to especially take note of the the agricultural activities at this fair as they are host to some of the best around including the largest steer and oxen show in the world.

Nearby Activities: Foliage Tour in White Mountains in New Hampshire

Have your own favorite fair in Maine? Definitely mark your own recommendations in the comments or check out the complete schedule of Maine Fairs on the Maine Fair website: http://www.mainefairs.org/fairs.html