Thousands enjoy Arlington County Fair

ARLINGTON, Va. ( DC News Now ) — The annual Arlington County Fair is in full swing at the Thomas Jefferson Community Center.

Organizers say it’s one of the largest free events on the East Coast, and it started nearly 50 years ago.

“This is sort of the thing we look forward to every year, it kind of kicks off the end of the summer getting ready for school,” said Sarah Gmyr.

Gmyr is a fair veteran who’s noticed some changes as she has come over the years.

“A little bit more rides. There seems to be more food,” said Gmyr.

Gmyr also noted the plastic on the ground, which was used to create walkways for local fairgoers and visitors from out of town.

“I just like amusement parks… but I’ve never been to a county fair,” said Eden Marks from New York.

The fair brings fun for parents and kids alike, with interactive games, eating contests, rides and live performances.

According to the fair’s website, over 84,000 people from Arlington, Northern Virginia and the D.C. area have traveled to take part in the fun over recent years.

“This place is, like really good. It’s really fun. I like all the rides,” said Malik Joachim-McDowell.

There are rides and attractions for every age group, attracting people from around the Beltway.

“Being inside the Beltway, you don’t really get, like, these big events like this. And it’s really cool that Arlington is able to do this,” said Tim Brulle.

For kids heading back to school, it’s one last taste of summer, giving them a chance to have fun with friends and family.

The fair opens at 10 a.m. on Saturday and runs until 10:30 p.m. Its doors open at 11 a.m. on Sunday and close at 10 p.m.

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