Maine, the Way Fall Should Be - Fryeburg Fair, the largest in Maine

Come join us on our third stop on our “Maine, the Way Fall Should Be” journey

As the air turns crisp and the leaves turn to brilliant shades of red and gold, our thoughts turn to cozy sweaters, Fall Footwear, apple picking and apple cider doughnuts. It's a time for coming together  to celebrate the beauty of autumn. If you're seeking new ways to embrace this time of year, why not consider the fun of a local fair?

In the state of Maine, agricultural fairs have a rich history dating back to the early 19th century. These fairs originally served as platforms for farmers to showcase innovative techniques along with their best crops and livestock. Today Maine is home to over 25 agricultural fairs, each offering a delightful array of adult and youth events, exhibit halls, midway attractions, delicious food, and captivating entertainment. Among these fairs, the Fryeburg Fair stands out as a must-visit destination, proudly holding the title of the state's largest agricultural fair, and one of the oldest in the United States.

Nestled in picturesque Fryeburg, this spectacular event unfolds over eight days during the first week of October, drawing an annual crowd of over 225,000. The fairgrounds covers 185 acres, and exhibits fill over 100 buildings.  For those seeking a complete immersion, three camping areas are available, with approximately 4,500 reservations managed by the Camping Department each year. 

Visitors can delight in the presence of more than 3,000 animals, including majestic draft horses, ponies, racing horses, oxen, dairy and beef cattle, sheep, goats, pigs, poultry, and even rabbits. There are more than 32 horse and ox pulling events, as well as six days of harness racing on a half-mile track. For the kids and the young at heart, there’s a midway with over 50 rides. 

The Fryeburg Fair represents just one of the 25 fairs that take place throughout Maine from late August to October. Both Skowhegan and Bangor proudly host their own "state" fairs, a tradition that dates back to a time when a state fair rotated among different communities. Skowhegan's August fair, which commenced in 1818, proudly holds the title of "the nation's oldest continuously run agricultural fair," while Bangor's August event is heralded as "the largest state fair in Maine."

Maine’s country fairs are a true sign that Fall has arrived, and we’re happy to share the experience with you as part of our “Maine, the Way Fall Should Be” journey. Check out our new Fall Collection perfect for your Autumn adventure and be sure to join us on our next stop!