From Petting Zoos to Pig Races, Your 2023 Guide to State Fairs in Massachusetts
The official start of summer is a little over a month away, June 21. However, it’s mid May which means it’s the unofficial start of fair season in Massachusetts. We…

DES MOINES, IOWA – AUGUST 19: Albert the super bull, which weighs 3,042 pounds, is taken for a walk at the Iowa State Fair on August 19, 2022 in Des Moines, Iowa. The fair which attracts nearly 100,000 visitors each day, runs until August 21. (Photo by Scott Olson/Getty Images)
The official start of summer is a little over a month away, June 21. However, it's mid May which means it's the unofficial start of fair season in Massachusetts. We love our fairs here. Fairs mean amazing food, fun rides, games, family time and so much more. There are different types of fairs in Massachusetts as well. From sheepshearing festivals to apple blossom festivals to music festivals, we have it all here in Massachusetts. In general, the first fair of the season takes place toward the end of May and continues all the way through November. But pay attention because each fair has an extremely different theme. One may be more family friendly than another. One may have different types of food. The point is, there are certain benefits for each fair so you should definitely make sure they have what you're looking for before you go.
Oh and we can't forget about the food at the fair. From corn dogs, to fried oreos, to cotton candy and fried dough, these fairs will have it all. We have listed the date and location of each fair and the website as well. Make sure you check each website for directions, parking information, admission costs and more.
May 27-28 MA Sheep and Woolcraft Fair
Chosen by Yankee Magazine as one of the top 20 things to do in MA. There is sheep judging, fiber workshops, auctions and more.
June 3 Franklin County 4-H Fair
This fair will have a horse show and helps benefit the Mass 4H Youth Development Program which includes robotics, foods, consumer science, career exploration, community service, photography, leadership, and animal science projects.
July 12-July 16 Westport Fair
The annual fair is held at 200 Pine Hill Road in Westport. This fair features a carnival, farm tractor pulls, garden tractor pulls, horseshoe and corn hole tournaments, food vendors, an animal tent, craft vendors, entertainment, a car show, touch a truck and the annual chicken bbq.
July 27-July 23 Barnstable Fair
From demolition derbys to live performances (Abba tribute band), this fair has something for everyone.
July 28 Worcester County 4H Fair
August 11-August 13 Bolton Fair
Join them for the annual celebration of our heritage, culture and community, as we provide wholesome family fun, great entertainment, friendly competition and educational experiences for the whole family. The Bolton Fair is where friends, agriculture, education and creativity unite!
August 11, 12, 13 Middlefield Fair
Truck pulls, horse pulls, live entertainment, petting zoos, reptiles, demonstrations, kids activities and more.
August 17-20 Martha's Vineyard Fair
The fair has become an unofficial end of summer fair that features livestock, games, rides and food.
August 18-27 Marshfield Fair
The Marshfield Agricultural and Horticultural Society, sponsor of the Marshfield Fair, is dedicated to making this the premier event of Southeastern Massachusetts. They have petting zoos, live demos, rides, butterfly exhibits and more.
Sept. 1-4 Three County Fair
The Three County Fairgrounds is located in Northampton, Massachusetts right off Interstate 91. From live bands, to racing pigs, to motorcycle shows the Three County Fair has it all.
Sept. 7-10 Franklin County Fair
The 174th Franklin County Fair
September 7-10, 2023, in Greenfield MA. They have demolition derbys, rides, food, pet shows and more.
September 15-October 1 The Big E
The Big E has become one of the biggest fairs in Massachusetts. They have rides, food, water slides and entertainment from BIG NAME artists. This year's performers include Zedd and Third Eye Blind.
Sept. 29-October 9 Topsfield Fair
From free movies to performances to great food and animal exhibits, The Topsfield Fair has become a staple on the north shore.