06 Aug Essex County Fair returns to Westport, NY August 13-17
The Essex County Fair is taking place in Westport from August 13-17, with a week of entertainment, attractions, and fun for local residents and visitors to the region, as it welcomes everyone from across the North Country. Admission to the fair is $15 per person, which includes parking, rides and most shows. Some grandstand entertainment may have a separate fee.
This year’s fair boasts a full schedule of events. Friday night will feature truck and tractor pulls, while country music fans can look forward to a performance by Vermont singer Jamie Lee Thurston on Saturday night. The always-popular demolition derby will close out the festivities on Sunday. ATV drag races, always a crowd favorite, are making a return this year.
Beyond the main arena, attendees will enjoy a variety of shows, including Mythicreatures, a strolling dinosaur show for kids, Xtreme Strong Man, and the World of Wonders, a magical musician show.
“We began preparations for the 2025 fair more than a year in advance; but as summer approaches, we have been working steadily, and the fair is looking really good,” said Dennie Westover, Essex County Fair Board president.
The Essex County Fair provides a significant boost to the local economy, attracting approximately 10,000 people each year. “Our attendance has increased over the last three years,” Westover revealed. “Families book hotels and make a real trip out of coming to the fair. Stores and restaurants in the area enjoy bigger sales – everyone benefits.”
This year, the gate price has been adjusted to $15 per person for those over 2. “We haven’t had a price increase in 20 years; we didn’t want to do it, but we had to,” Westover explained.
The fair, which traces its origins back to 1848 when Elkanah Watson organized the inaugural Essex County-Clinton County Fair, has a rich history. The current grounds were established between 1885 and 1889 by the Essex County Agricultural Society.
Even before this year’s event, planning for the 2026 fair is already well underway. “I think people would be surprised how many hands it takes to make the fair happen,” Westover remarked. “It’s not just three or four people, it’s several, and it is all done on a volunteer basis.”
“I think the fair is still so popular because of the thrill and the excitement,” Westover observed. “It is something that young and old can enjoy together. People get out and meet friends they haven’t seen in years. Seeing the smiles on people’s faces is definitely my favorite part.”
Those interested in volunteering with the Essex County Fair are encouraged to call the fair office at 518-962-8650 or visit https://www.essexcountyfair.org/ for more information.
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