The Bloomsburg Fair is a beloved annual tradition that has captured the hearts of locals and visitors alike for over 160 years. As one of the largest agricultural fairs in the state, it offers a delightful blend of entertainment, education, and community spirit. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned fair-goer, there’s something for everyone to enjoy!
Whether you love the rides, the concerts, or the agricultural exhibits, mark your calendars for the end of September. As the smell of corn dogs and cotton candy fills the air, you know that autumn has arrived.
History of the Bloomsburg Fair
Initially begun in 1855 as an agricultural exhibit, the Bloomsburg Fair has been canceled only by two world wars, a flood, and a pandemic. Even young Taylor Swift performed at the Bloomsburg Fair after winning a karaoke competition.
The fairgrounds have expanded over the years to encompass over 227 acres, making it the largest agricultural fair in the Commonwealth. Fair week begins the third week after Labor Day, and crowds now top 500,000. Don’t worry; more than 1,400 vendors will tempt you with wares. Nine hundred of them are food!
Planning Your Visit
Although the fairgrounds can handle the crowds, you will want to save yourself some hassle and plan. Make sure you have a map handy to find your destination quickly. Here is all the information you need for a fun visit to the Bloomsburg Fair.
Bloomsburg Fair Schedule
The Fair is nine days long, from a preview Friday, with special reduced prices, until the following Saturday. General admission is $8 (children under 12 are free). Check the schedule for days with special pricing for Seniors, Students, and Military. Advance tickets can be purchased online for a discount.
General admission tickets do NOT cover your parking fee, nor does it cover entrance to concerts.
Here are the hours for all things fair-related from Saturday to Saturday:
- Outdoor Vendors: 10 am – 10 pm
- Indoor Vendors: 9 am – 10 pm
- Ride Hours: 11 am – closing
- Exhibit Building: 9 am – 10 pm
- Barton House: 10 am – 6 pm
- Dog Show Building: 10 am – 9 pm
- Keystone Agricultural Center: 9 am – 10 pm
Parking
General parking is available at the main lot at 980 W Main St, Bloomsburg, PA 17815. Cars and trucks cost $5, and cash is preferred. Advance parking tickets are available at the ticket office before the fair begins or online.
Concerts and Other Grandstand Shows
Every night, you can attend a Bloomsburg Fair concert or show that requires a separate ticket purchase. These events include headliners like the Beach Boys, rodeos, and demolition derbies. This year, beer will be available only at the Grandstand.
Highlights of the Fair
Here are some of the highlights to look for when you visit the Bloomsburg Fair in PA:
- Daily shows on the Free Stage
- Carnival Rides require either tickets or a day pass
- Visit the Livestock Tents to see multiple dog breeds, fainting goats, rabbit jumping, and mutton busting (where children with helmets see how long they can stay atop a sheep).
- Speakers, music, and demonstrations are ongoing at the Ag Building.
- We did mention 900 food vendors, didn’t we?
Before and After the Fair
The Bloomsburg Fair is just beginning your love affair with Central Pennsylvania. There is much more to enjoy at all times of the year! Just a few short weeks after the Fair, the Covered Bridge Festival celebrates the more than two dozen covered bridges in the area. And October is the perfect time to visit and celebrate craft brews!
The Inn at Turkey Hill is the best place to rest your head between all this fun. We offer many different types of rooms and an on-site restaurant and brewery for dining and relaxation. Plan your Fair getaway today!
Photo Credit: © ziss via canva.com