How to make the most of a visit to Topsfield Fair

What do giant pumpkins, exotic rabbits, monster trucks, tilt-a-whirls and fried dough have in common? Why you’ll see them all on a visit to the Topsfield Fair, of course!

First held in 1818, it has honed close to its agricultural roots for over 200 years. It’s a country fair, with halls displaying a menagerie of animals, fruits and vegetables, flower arrangement and of course pies. But an equal draw is family entertainment with tractor pulls, pig races and monster truck competitions. It’s safe to say a visit to Topsfield Fair provides something for pretty much everyone.

You’ll also find musical entertainment by regional and national acts. Then there are the seemingly limitless food options, from down-home dinners to fried food goodness. Add to that a full-on midway with gentle to scare-yourself-silly rides, and you have the makings of a memorable day or evening outing. 

A little planning goes a long way on a visit to Topsfield Fair

To plan your visit, pick a day or evening and give yourself a bit of extra time to negotiate traffic in Topsfield and to park your car in one of the many satellite lots, where you’ll pay to park. Make your way to the entrance where tickets are $20 per person, and an additional $30/per if you wish to buy unlimited ride tickets. Once inside, start with the barns directly in front of you near the entrance. Take your time oogling exotic rabbits, colorful chickens, ducks, peacocks, perfectly grown veggies and creative flower arrangements. Oh, and of course the biggest stars in the barns, the giant pumpkins. Last year’s winner topped the scales at nearly 2,500 pounds!

Walk around to discover more, much more

From there, meander through the grounds and pick up a snack or meal from the many food kiosks as you stroll by. Just beyond the food concourse find the Arena Barn and check the schedule for tractor, horse and ox-pulling contests, sheep dog trials, touch-a-truck opportunities for kids or figure 8 and demolition derby races. If you’re lucky, you may encounter one of several informal parades scheduled during the Fair’s two-week schedule.

After a few hours taking in all that the Topsfield Fair has to offer, it’s time to head to the Midway and jump on a ride or walk through a fun house – if you dare!

The 2024 Topsfield Fair takes place on October 4 – 14. To experience the Fair’s celebration of agricultural excellence and and carney-like fun, make plans to visit now. 

FUN FACT: Route 1, on which the Topsfield Fairground is located, was originally developed as a long tollroad from Boston to Newburyport in 1805.