articles

Welcome to the Great Allentown Fair!

By Melissa Baltazar August 28, 2025

When & Where:
Join the fun from Wednesday, August 27 to Labor Day, Monday, September 1, at the Allentown Fairgrounds on 17th Street.

Why it’s a family favorite:
This is more than just a fair—it’s a joyful celebration of agriculture, creativity, and community spirit that’s been delighting families for over 170 years!

Highlights for All Ages

1. Grandstand Entertainment

Each evening brings a headliner to remember:

  • Wednesday, August 27: Heart
  • Thursday, August 28: Alabama
  • Friday, August 29: Kane Brown
  • Saturday, August 30: Ace Frehley, Great White & Quiet Riot
  • Sunday, August 31: Gabriel “Fluffy” Iglesias
  • Monday, September 1: J&J Demolition Derby (Labor Day tradition!)

2. Agriculture & Labor of Love

Step into Agri-Plex / Agri-Land to explore fascinating exhibits: from livestock to local produce, there’s so much to discover. Expect hundreds of animals, partake in “Lil’ Farm Hands” (meet or “milk” the robotic cow Aggie Hall!), and cheer on talented 4-H participants.

3. Fun, Fair Games & Competitions

  • Chick Hatchings: Watch baby chicks emerge from their shells—yep, they’re that tiny and adorable!
  • 4-H Fashion Show (Saturday): Youth showcase homemade, themed apparel—pastels, aprons, bright styles included!
  • ABE Idol (Thursday, 7:30 PM): Local singers perform for the title—and maybe a future Nashville debut!

4. Tasty Treats & Culinary Fun

  • Best New Fair Food contest: Sample zesty new bites like chicharrón with guacamole, bacon-jam sundaes, “ice cream nachos,” mac & cheese on a stick—and cast your vote!
  • Farm-to-Table Cooking Series & Iron Chef Challenge: Watch local chefs create delicious dishes using fresh, regional ingredients—complete with tastings and a final cook-off!

5. Free, Family-Friendly Entertainment

  • Opening Ceremonies & Fair Queen Coronation (Wednesday evening): Kick off the week with a dose of community pride and a sprinkle of pageantry.
  • Butterfly Kingdom: Wander through a fluttery haven—hundreds of butterflies are waiting to enchant every age.
  • Princess Parade (Saturday, 1:30 PM): Little princes and princesses (dressed for the part!) stroll the fair in a magical, family-first parade.
  • Mullet Contest & Grape Stomp (Saturday): Giggle at the “Business in front, party in back” hair-raising contest, and join (or watch) the grape-stomping fun!
  • Culinary Contests & Centennial Stage Shows: Daily fun—from baking competitions to folk performances and educational demos.
  • Farm-to-Table Cooking & Iron Chef Demos: Ample entertainment with a side of learning—and maybe a sprinkle of “I want to taste that!”

6. Discounts & Admission Details

  • Admission: $10 for ages 13 and up; kids 12 and under are always FREE
  • Opening Night (Aug 27): Just $5—or only $3 with a canned food donation for the Second Harvest Food Bank.
  • Thursday & Friday (12–2 PM): Free admission for all; then regular price for adults. Veterans, military personnel (with ID), and seniors (65+) get special free entry on select days.
  • Parking: $10 (standard), or splurge on $30 prepaid premium parking if you want the closest spot.

Why Families Love It

  • Something for everyone: From toddlers mesmerized by butterflies, to food-lovers chasing unique bites, to music fans cheering headliners, the fair spans every mood.
  • Affordable fun: Free admission for kids under 12 and special promo days make this a budget-friendly outing.
  • Educational entertainment: Foster curiosity—from agriculture exhibits, live performances, to chef demos, every corner offers hands-on lessons.
  • Built for memories: Parades, contests, hearty laughs, and lively tunes—this fair is all about family togetherness.

Macaroni KID Tip:

Pick a day theme!

  • Opening Night (Wed): Watch the new Fair Queen’s crown and the kickoff procession.
  • Midweek (Thu–Fri): Tap into full admission freebies by noon, then enjoy exhibits, music, or yummy bite demos.
  • Weekend (Sat–Sun): Costume parades, fashion contests, grape stomps, and live shows make for action-packed days.
  • Labor Day (Mon): A cheerful closeout with derby thrills and senior-friendly discounts to wrap up the fair.

For more information, check out: https://www.allentownfair.com/