Something for everyone at the 162nd Harford Fair

As you make plans for your family this summer, don’t miss the Harford Fair which draws over 65,000 visitors each year.  Located just off exit 217 of Route I-81 the fair has something for everyone during the week-long event, August 19-24. 

Families looking for a family-fun event will find free parking; free admission for ages 11 and under; $6 admission for 12 and over.

Advance sale one-day admission tickets are available for $5 through Sunday, Aug. 18 at the following locations:

Secretary’s office located on the Harford Fairgrounds; Andre & Son, Montrose; Greenfield Power Equipment, Finch Hill and Eynon; Herron Lumber, Tunkhannock; Lindsey Oil Co., New Milford; Nicholson Lumber, Nicholson; NBT Bank, selected branches; People’s Security Bank & Trust, selected branches.

Gates open at 8 a.m. every day and buildings are open 10 a.m.-10 p.m. daily.

Houghton’s Amusements offer daily as well as daily unlimited rides wristband. The rides on the midway open at noon, Monday through Friday, and at 11 a.m. on Saturday.

Monday is “Active Military and Veteran’s Appreciation Day.” All military personnel active duty, retired or veterans are admitted free with a valid military or veteran’s identification card.

Wednesday is Senior Citizen Day, with admission for visitors age 60 and over just $5.

Thursday is Family Day with the “Early Bird Special” gate admission of $3 from 8 a.m.-3 p.m.

But that is just the beginning of all the Harford Fair has to offer.  Nestled in the northeast corner of Susquehanna County, the fair will celebrate its 162nd year.  There are 23 departments where exhibitors display their fine handcrafts, photography, art work, fruits, vegetables, and canned goods, to name just a few.  All exhibits are judged and prizes are awarded. 

The barns are filled with goats, sheep, pigs, cows, chickens, waterfowl, and rabbits for display and judging.  4H exhibits and competitions are also a part of the fair.

The Harford Agricultural Society continues to develop and improve the fairgrounds for the bustling of events and activities.

The “Hogway Speedway” featuring pig races, ducks and goats will offer three free shows daily in the south end of the fair. The “Tiger Encounter” will thrill audiences three times daily in the north arena

From the time the gates open at 8 a.m. to the 10 p.m. closing, there is something for everyone. 

The 28th annual Harford Fair Queen coronation kicks off the week Monday afternoon in the Shade Pavilion. The winner becomes the ambassador for the fair throughout the week and represents the fair at the Pennsylvania State Fair Queen competition. 

The baby contest, the animal costume contest, and baking contests offer opportunities for community members’ participation.  The rules, deadlines, and other information along with the information for all other contests at the fair are available on the website, harfordfair.com.

Every day of the fair offers a variety of exciting events in the main arena which include truck, tractor and horse pull events.

Main Arena events also feature Monster Truck Freestyle, the return of Dave Martin’s Championship Rodeo, and the $$Jackpot$$ Demolition Derby. 

There is a variety of free entertainment and performances and more happening in the Shade Pavilion throughout the week. 

All week long, Chainsaw carver Kevin Treat will demonstrate each day and his menagerie of creations will be available for purchase and auctioned off to the public on Saturday afternoon; the Butterfly Encounter will be open daily, 10 a.m.-8 p.m.; and Farmer for a Day will provide kids with a hands-on agricultural experience.

Whatever tickles your taste buds can be found at the Harford Fair from funnel cakes to corn on the cob. Support local school band groups and scout troops by visiting their stands on the fairgrounds where they sell food to raise money for their year-long activities. 

When you get hungry, visit one of the many vendors – including school groups and local organizations – offering up a variety of options for every appetite. The Dining Hall is open each day from noon through early evening (or until sold out).

The Harford Fair has a rich and long-time history in Susquehanna County.  It is one of the few truly agricultural country fairs in existence today. To view interesting artifacts and to take a trip back in time visit the Founders Hall Museum or the New Log Cabin.  

The six-day fair provides opportunities for young and old alike to exhibit handcrafts, school projects, agricultural items, fruits, vegetables, baked goods, animals, photography and art work for competition.  There are over 200 commercial space vendors who display their wares as well.    

Make your plans now by visiting the website www.harfordfair.com. Take Exit 217 off route I-81.  

See you at the fair!