The Essex County Fair Returns to Westport for Five Days of Adirondack Fun

Campus of the Essex County Fairgrounds in Westport, NY. — Essex County Fairgrounds in Westport, NY.

From July 29 through August 2, 2026, the 177th Essex County Fair transforms the historic fairgrounds at the corner of Route 9 and Sisco Street into one of the Adirondack region’s most beloved agricultural gatherings—a place where midway lights, maple treats, livestock shows, and the unmistakable scent of fair food mingle beneath a summer sky.

Serving the Lake Champlain region for generations, the Essex County Fair remains refreshingly unpretentious. Admission is $15 for guests ages 3 and up and includes carnival rides, most shows, and parking—an increasingly rare value in today's event landscape.

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What visitors can expect.

Think of the Essex County Fair as equal parts county fair, agricultural showcase, and community reunion.

Daily attractions include local farm displays in Floral Hall, 4-H exhibits, interactive goat and sheep demonstrations, the Mousseau Family Maple Sugar House, Bossy Bingo, and The Thirsty Horse Beer Garden.

And then there is the food.

kneading pizza dough for the sweet treat, fried dough. — Fried dough, or *pizza fritta,* is a staple at fairs and carnivals in New York State.

Fairgoers can expect all the classics: fried dough dusted with powdered sugar, grilled sausages, ice cream cones enjoyed one-handed while watching horse pulls, and maple-inspired treats worthy of their own ribbon. A variety of food vendors will be on hand throughout the week, ensuring nobody leaves hungry.

The Adirondacks on display.

Agriculture remains at the heart of the Essex County Fair.

Visitors will find horse shows, cattle competitions, poultry exhibits, harness racing, truck pulls, tractor pulls, and demonstrations showcasing the traditions that continue to shape life throughout Essex County and the Adirondacks.

For travelers staying in nearby Essex, Elizabethtown, Lake Placid, or along the Lake Champlain shoreline, the fair offers an authentic glimpse into Adirondack culture that goes well beyond souvenir shops and scenic drives.

carnival rides like a ferris wheel at the Essex County Fair. — Carnival rides are included in the price of admission at the Essex County Fair.

Entertainment for the whole family.

This year's lineup is particularly strong.

The Flying Wallendas will perform throughout the fair, bringing their legendary high-wire acts to Westport. Music fans can catch country artist Jamie Lee Thurston on Friday evening, while illusionists Moogician and Wyatt Hackett provide family-friendly entertainment throughout the week.

Children will find plenty to keep them busy as well, from youth activities and cornhole tournaments to bike and backpack giveaways held daily. (Fair officials note that children must be present to win, and only one bike may be awarded per child during the week.)

ADK Taste pick.

Don't miss Sunday's Egglefield Demolition Derby.

There is something wonderfully nostalgic about cheering on a lineup of dented vehicles while balancing a lemonade in one hand and a paper basket of fries in the other. Sunday's festivities also include the Open Cattle Jackpot Show, Gymkhana Horse Show, and a 50/50 giveaway drawing.

ADK Taste insight.

Founded nearly two centuries ago, the Essex County Fair has quietly endured while much of the world changed around it. It remains one of those increasingly rare places where multiple generations can be found together—grandparents reminiscing about fairs past while grandchildren discover carnival rides for the very first time.

In the Adirondacks, traditions tend to stick around for a reason.

Horses are a big attractiion at the fair.

ADK Taste recommendation.

Arrive before noon on Saturday if possible. The combination of horse pulls, youth activities, the silent auction, and truck pulls makes it one of the busiest days of the fair. Comfortable shoes are highly recommended—the fairgrounds are larger than many first-time visitors expect.

Key event details.

Event: 177th Essex County Fair
Dates: July 29–August 2, 2026
Location: Essex County Fairgrounds, Route 9 and Sisco Street, Westport, NY
Admission: $15 (ages 3 and up)
Includes: Carnival rides, most shows, and parking
Website: EssexCountyFair.org
Phone: (518) 962-8650

All events and schedules are subject to change. Visitors are encouraged to check the fair's website or Facebook page before attending.

As summer settles over the Adirondacks and the corn dogs begin to sizzle, few events capture the spirit of the season quite like the Essex County Fair.

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FAQ

When is the Essex County Fair in 2026?
July 29 through August 2, 2026.

Where is the Essex County Fair held?
At the Essex County Fairgrounds on Route 9 and Sisco Street in Westport, NY.

How much does admission cost?
Admission is $15 for ages 3 and up and includes carnival rides, most shows, and parking.

Are carnival rides included with admission?
Yes. Midway rides are included with admission.

Can I bring my dog to the Essex County Fair?
No. Pets are not permitted, except for service and exhibit animals.

What are some highlights of the fair?
The Flying Wallendas, Jamie Lee Thurston, demolition derby, horse and tractor pulls, 4-H exhibits, and livestock shows are among this year's highlights.

Find the best places to eat, shop, stay and experience near the Essex County Fair Grounds in Westport, NY.

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