PENNSYLVANIA - A state with a rich agricultural heritage, hosts numerous fairs throughout the year, celebrating local farming, community spirit, and family fun. But one fair stands above the rest in terms of size and attendance: the Bloomsburg Fair.
Bloomsburg Fair: Pennsylvania's Largest Agricultural Fair - A Tradition Since 1854
Held annually in Bloomsburg, Columbia County, this nine-day extravaganza is the largest agricultural fair in Pennsylvania and one of the largest on the entire East Coast, drawing hundreds of thousands of visitors for a week of entertainment, exhibits, and classic fairground fun.
A Pennsylvania Institution: History and Scale
The Bloomsburg Fair isn't just a recent phenomenon; it's a deeply rooted tradition.
- Origins: The fair's history dates back to 1854, making it one of the oldest continuously running fairs in the United States (Source: Bloomsburg Fair website, historical records of Columbia County).
- Largest in Pennsylvania: The Bloomsburg Fair is widely recognized as the largest agricultural fair in Pennsylvania.
- Massive Attendance: The fair typically draws over 400,000 attendees over its nine-day run, a testament to its popularity and its wide range of attractions (Source: Bloomsburg Fair attendance records, news reports).
More Than Just Agriculture: A Diverse Range of Attractions
While agriculture remains at the heart of the Bloomsburg Fair, the event offers something for everyone:
- Livestock Exhibits: A core element of the fair, showcasing farm animals, including cattle, sheep, pigs, goats, and poultry. Competitions and judging events highlight the quality of Pennsylvania agriculture.
- Agricultural Exhibits: Displays of crops, produce, flowers, and other agricultural products, showcasing the bounty of the region.
- Rides and Amusements: A large midway features a variety of rides, games, and attractions for all ages.
- Live Music and Entertainment: Multiple stages host a lineup of musical performances, concerts, and other entertainment throughout the fair.
- Food Vendors: A vast array of food vendors offers classic fair food, regional specialties, and a wide range of culinary options.
- Arts and Crafts: Exhibits and vendors showcasing handmade crafts, artwork, and other unique items.
- Grandstand Events: The fair features grandstand events.
Other Notable Pennsylvania Fairs
While the Bloomsburg Fair is the largest, Pennsylvania hosts other significant agricultural fairs:
- York State Fair (York, PA): Another large and popular fair with a long history.
- Big Butler Fair (Prospect, PA): A significant fair in Western Pennsylvania.
The Bloomsburg Fair, Pennsylvania's largest agricultural fair, is a beloved tradition, a celebration of rural life, and a showcase for the state's agricultural heritage. Its massive scale, its diverse attractions, and its long history make it a unique and enduring event, drawing hundreds of thousands of visitors each year. Whether you're interested in livestock, agriculture, thrilling rides, live music, or simply enjoying the atmosphere of a classic country fair, the Bloomsburg Fair offers an unforgettable experience.
