There are so many county fairs, but the picturesque setting of The Great Frederick Fair has something different. Well, to inform you all, The Great Frederick Fair is right around the corner. Located near the stunning Catoctin Mountains, after the Carroll Creek river walk, The Great Frederick Fair is back from Friday, September 15 to Saturday, September 23. This longstanding family tradition is now celebrating its 161st year.
General Manager Karen Nicklas shared with WTOP what distinguished their fair. What makes this fair unique is the strong sense of community here. Karen Nicklas grew up as a “fair kid” himself; his parents, grandparents, aunts, and other family members are lifelong supporters.
One can witness this deep-rooted connection in their structures, volunteer hubs, vendors, and exhibitors. Many of them have been part of this tradition for generations. It is a legacy passed down from their parents and great-grandparents, and now, everyone is carrying it forward.
The Great Frederick Fair will have live performances
The grandstand boasts an impressive music lineup for various nights, featuring renowned artists such as Gin Blossoms, Sugar Ray, Tonic, and Fastball on Friday, September 15. Zach Williams with Brennley Brown is displaying their piece on Saturday, September 16.
Elle King with the Red Clay Strays is performing on Thursday, September 21; Tracy Byrd with Jo Dee Messina on Friday, September 22; Walker Hayes with Chase McDaniel on Saturday, September 23. Notably, last year’s attendees had the opportunity to witness Coolio’s second-to-last concert ever performed. This is not the only thing the great fair is going to have. There are other things lined up. Have a look.
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What has The Great Frederick Fair in store?
Apart from live performances, Nicklas organized three different “three-ring circuses”. The first includes a variety of amusement park rides and challenging games designed to cater to thrill-seeking enthusiasts.
Nicklas shared that they are going to offer an exciting array of rides, from thrilling ones to classics like the Ferris Wheel and mery-go-around, along with several kiddie rides. This year, they are introducing sensory-friendly hours on Sunday from 12 to 2 p.m., especially catering to those from the nearby Maryland School for the Deaf.
The fair is also going to have entertaining games like balloon pop, bottle knockdown, fishing for prizes, and a host of other enjoyable activities for kids to engage in, have a great time, and win fantastic prizes.
The second aspect is the delectable food offerings, ranging from crab cakes to bloomin’ onions, so make sure to arrive with a hearty appetite.
Nicklas mentioned that they have many beloved favorites that people eagerly anticipate each year, such as the root beer float vendor, Dougherty’s New Market Grange, Pighole BBQ, JB Seafood, and Hemp’s Meats. Additionally, this year, there are plenty of new options, with commercial exhibitors selling various items like antique benches, bags, hats, and a wide array of interesting merchandise to browse and enjoy.
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Last but unquestionably significant, the third element is the agricultural exhibition. Nicklas mentioned that agricultural exhibition is their primary mission, so it holds the utmost importance for them. Visitors will have the opportunity to see a diverse range of animals, including beef cattle, sheep, swine, turkeys, rabbits, goats, alpacas, chickens, and just about every type of animal you can think of.
They also host events like a dog show and feature dairy cows, ensuring there is something of interest for everyone. This week, the fair will have around 400 4-H, FFA, and youth exhibitors participating. They dedicate the entire year to grooming and preparing their animals for this special one-week event.
