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Those who plan to attend the upcoming Maryland State Fair have a lot to look forward to. The highly anticipated annual event, now in its 143rd year, is expected to draw thousands from throughout the Mid-Atlantic region.
“We are pleased to host the Maryland State Fair this summer with thousands of talented individuals and fun-loving fairgoers participating from Maryland’s great cities, towns, farms, mountains and shores,” Maryland State Fair General Manager Andy Cashman said.
“Our goal is to provide a variety of safe, enjoyable and educational experiences to help make memories for a lifetime.”
Presented by Toyota, the state fair will once again be held in northern Baltimore County at the Maryland State Fairgrounds located at 2200 York Road in Timonium. It will follow the same arrangement it has for years, being set for three weekends: Thursday, Aug. 22 to Sunday, Aug. 25; Thursday, Aug. 29 to Monday, Sept. 2 (Labor Day); and Thursday, Sept. 5 to Sunday, Sept. 8.
Thursday hours are as follows:
Gates open at 5 p.m.Buildings are open from 5-8 p.m.Exhibition Hall is open from 5-9 p.m.The Carnival Midway is open from 5 p.m. to closing.
Hours for Fridays, Saturdays, Sundays and Labor Day Monday:
Gates open at 9 a.m. for early risers to watch the start of livestock and horse shows. Buildings are open from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m.Exhibition Hall is open from 10 a.m. to 9 p.m.Carnival Midway is open from 10 a.m. to closing.
No admission will be granted after 9 p.m. According to the Maryland State Fair & Agricultural Society, any one younger than 18 must be accompanied by an adult age 21 or older after 6 p.m. For additional details, visit www.marylandstatefair.com.
The state fair will feature many of its traditional favorites, including a wide variety of games, vendors, family-friendly arts and crafts, resource tables and more, while welcoming a number of new events and activities.
Some of what’s new this year includes:
Big Time Rush Concert with special guests Crash AdamsTaylor Swift song sing-alongMaryland Mullet ContestR.C. racing, puppy yoga, wave swinger ride, “Wolves of the World” and more
Live thoroughbred horse racing will occur Friday, Aug. 23 to Sunday, Aug. 25 and Friday, Aug. 30 to Monday, Sept. 2. The post time will be 12:25 PM.
Fairgoers may watch and wager on the races in the designated grandstand seats as horses round the 5/8 mile track, or have the option of relaxing in the OTB Center or Nick’s Grandstand Grill where they can enjoy a meal.
The Timonium Shine Again Stakes will be featured during the Saturday, Aug. 24 races.
Maryland State Fair admission prices are $15 for adults (ages 12-61); $12 for seniors (ages 62 and older); $10 for children (ages 6-11); and free for children aged 5 and younger. Rides are individually priced.
Advance discount ticket sales and other discounts are listed on www.marylandstatefair.com
The Maryland State Fair recognizes the enduring appeal of Maryland’s citizens, students, and 4-H and FFA (U.S. Department of Agriculture youth development programs) members sharing their talents and competing for ribbons, prizes or simply bragging rights.
“The Fair’s buildings, barns and stages provide space for thousands of fairgoers to appreciate the exhibits, learn from the exhibitors, and consider participating in a future fair,” Maryland State Fair & Agricultural Society officials said in a release.
“The state fair will also feature the thrills, chills, sights and sounds of numerous Midway and Kiddie Land rides and games, and the aromas of tasty fair food provided by Deggeller Attractions. The Maryland Foods Pavilion, Dairy Bar, and Chesapeake Beverage Garden showcase fresh from the farm and Bay food and drinks.”
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