About Calvert County Fair
The Calvert County Fair is an annual community fair held each fall in Prince Frederick, Maryland (on Southern Maryland’s Route 231). It is a traditional county fair with deep roots – the fair has been held continuously since 1887 (calvertcountyfair.com ). Over the decades it evolved from small farm shows to a major multi-day event with barns, livestock rings and carnival rides on a permanent fairground site in Barstow (Prince Frederick area) (calvertcountyfair.com ). The fair is a celebration of local agriculture and 4-H, showcasing farming exhibits, livestock competitions, and youth programs alongside carnival games. In fact, the official description calls it “a vibrant celebration” with “agricultural shows, 4-H programs, contests, and local entertainment” for families across Maryland, D.C. and Virginia (www.mapquest.com ). As a volunteer-run nonprofit, the 18-member fair board works year-round to present an event “that educates and entertains” the community (calvertcountyfair.com ). Signature features include teenage pageants (“Calvert County Idol”, Miss Tranquility), special theme days (Youth Day, Senior & Special Needs Day, Military Day), and traditional livestock and produce exhibits – all aimed at keeping Calvert’s farming heritage alive in the modern community.
Events and Programming
Each year’s fair (typically the last Wednesday through Sunday of September) is packed with activities. Daily programming spans agricultural exhibits, live entertainment, competitions and carnival fun. For example, Wednesday is often “Feed the Needy Night” with discounted (even donation-based) admission (thebaynet.com ), while Thursday may be “Senior & Special Needs Day” (free entry and lunch for qualifying residents) (thebaynet.com ). Friday is usually “Youth Day” with children under 18 admitted free through the afternoon (often with can drives) (thebaynet.com ). Special attractions recur each year: petting zoos and 4-H animal shows in the barns (goat, sheep, pig and cattle exhibits), daily stunt shows (e.g. acrobatics by the “Urias Daredevil Aerial & Acrobatic Thrill Show”) (thebaynet.com ) (thebaynet.com ), and chainsaw carving demonstrations by Joe Stebbing Jr. (thebaynet.com ) (thebaynet.com ). Nightly competitions include the long-running **Calvert County Idol** talent contest (held each evening in the Pavilion) (thebaynet.com ) (thebaynet.com ), plus horse and antique tractor pulls on the outdoor track (thebaynet.com ) (thebaynet.com ). The final Sunday (often Military Day) features family contests (children’s pageant, horseshoe pitching, auto club show) and a closing Country music concert (e.g. a Country Gentlemen tribute band at 3pm) (www.choosecalvert.com ) (thebaynet.com ). Carnival rides and midway games operate each night – tickets or wristbands are sold separately – so the event truly has something for every age, from toddlers to teens to grandparents.
Tickets and Booking
Tickets are typically sold only on-site (no major online box office). General admission has long been $10 for adults (age 12+) and free for children under 12 (calvertcountymd.gov ). Special days bring discounts: for example, Senior/Special-Needs Day (Thursday) offers free entry and lunch for qualifying Calvert citizens (calvertcountymd.gov ), and Youth Day (Friday) saw minors admitted free until 4pm (thebaynet.com ). Occasionally one-night promotions (like the “Feed the Needy” night) admit everyone for a nominal fee or by donating a canned food item (thebaynet.com ). After those special hours or days, the regular $10 gate applies. Note that gate admission is often *cash only* – the fair runs ATMs on-site (with fees) – although most food and game vendors now accept credit cards and Apple Pay (thebaynet.com ). Carnival ride tickets (for rides and games) are separate; wristbands for unlimited rides are sold for specific hours (for example, a wristband cost $20 on a Wednesday preview night in 2023) (thebaynet.com ). In short, plan on paying $10 per day at the gate (with kids free) plus any carnival/tickets as needed. There are generally no pre-sales or reserved seating; just arrive early for popular acts or shows. If a multi-day pass is offered, it’s usually revealed just before fair week and still priced similarly per day.
Seating and Layout
The fairground is mostly open-air with a few large structures. The **Pavilion** (a covered multipurpose hall) serves as the stage for talent contests and indoor exhibitors. There are also several **exhibit halls** (often called Main Hall or youth halls) for livestock displays, 4-H awards, children’s contests and vendor markets. A large outdoor **track area** handles animal shows and pulling events; spectator bleachers or ropes line the track for horse pulls and tractor pulls (thebaynet.com ). Carnival rides occupy an open midway, with temporary fences. Overall, seating is general admission – benches and bleachers are provided at shows but for many events (like horse pulls or concerts) you stand on grass or lawn. The best viewing varies by event: for the tractor and horse pulls, the trackside bleachers offer the clearest view (thebaynet.com ). For stage performances (like Calvert Idol or bands), the best spots are near the front of the Pavilion stage. (Many attendees bring their own lawn chairs if allowed.) Sound and lighting are basic fair-grade: each stage and ring has its own PA system and lighting rigs, but nothing like an arena concert. In general, any open seating area will fill quickly for headline events, so early arrival is wise. The fair strives to keep good sightlines; avoid obstructed views near corners of the barns or behind cattle pens. Because many areas are outdoors, be prepared for uneven ground or soft grass after rain; covered pavilion areas have solid floors.
Getting There and Parking
The fairgrounds are located at 140 Calvert Fair Drive, Prince Frederick, MD 20678 (just off Route 231, between Solomons Island Road and Sixes Road). By car, most visitors take MD Route 4/MD-2 to Prince Frederick, then follow MD-231 (Great Mills Road). Note that **during fair weekends, traffic patterns change** – left turns onto the fair entrance are not allowed during peak hours, requiring drivers to loop via Sixes Road (MD-506) and Adelina Road (MD-508) to approach from the south (thebaynet.com ). Ample on-site parking is available and free for fairgoers; lots are gravel but well-maintained. If these fill up, overflow parking is provided at the College of Southern Maryland (CSM) just down MD-231, with a free shuttle bus running between CSM and the fairgrounds on Friday–Sunday of fair week (thebaynet.com ). All parking is managed by volunteers and marked by signs; handicapped-access spots are located close to main entrances. Rideshare and taxi drop-offs are best done at the main gate on Calvert Fair Drive (there is a marked drop-off lane). Public transit is limited; Calvert County’s local buses run to downtown Prince Frederick, but no direct bus goes to the fairgrounds. If coming by bus, you would take the Prince Frederick shuttle and then transfer by taxi or rideshare the last mile. Expect heavy congestion on Route 231, especially late afternoons. It’s wise to arrive early or use the satellite parking shuttle plan in the traffic advisory] ([thebaynet.com ).
Inside the Venue
Upon entry you’ll pass through the ticket gates, where security staff may check bags. Aside from required tickets, typical items carried in include cameras, small backpacks, blankets or ground tarps, and perhaps a jacket (evening can get cool). The grounds are stroller- and wheelchair-friendly (the fair is explicitly wheelchair accessible) (www.waze.com ). Restroom facilities are scattered – look near the main exhibit halls and midways. Portable hand-washing stations are available by the food courts. There is no coat check, so bring only essentials. Immediately inside, you’ll find fair merchandise and information booths (usually by the main gate). A first-aid tent is typically staffed mid-fair. The atmosphere is lively and family-friendly, with colorful banners and music playing throughout the grounds. Highlights to look for inside: a midway marketplace selling local crafts and fair souvenirs; the 4-H exhibits hall (where 4-H members show off projects); and usually a dedicated “Agri-Puppets” or educational exhibit area for children (animal science demos). Food vendors line the midway and the hallways of the main pavilion. Classic fair foods abound: funnel cakes, cotton candy, fried Oreos, ice cream, lemonade stands and more (thebaynet.com ). County-specific treats like pulled pork sandwiches and turkey legs are also staples. Most vendors are credit-card friendly, but small cash-only stands do exist and ATM fees can be high (thebaynet.com ). Plan on buying ride tickets or wristbands at the carnival window inside (note: wristband sales may only happen on certain nights). Since many attractions repeat daily (for example, stunt shows or the chainsaw carver), you can time your visit; the official schedule (in hard copy or online) is your map. Each evening’s entertainment lineup is announced on signs near the stage. After dark, the fair is well-lit by floodlights along the midway. Photography is allowed for personal use (many guests share social-media snapshots), but professional photo setups normally need the fair’s permission. Finally, the fair enforces a no-pet policy (calvertcountymd.gov ), so plan accordingly for pet care.
Nearby Amenities
Prince Frederick has everything a visitor might need. The fairgrounds are just a few blocks from the town’s restaurant and retail corridor. For pre-show meals, chains like Chick-fil-A and a Wawa convenience store are a short drive away (www.waze.com ). Locals also recommend Nick’s of Calvert (barbecue) and Tugboat Annie’s for Southern Maryland fare, all within 2 miles. The nearby Calvert Health Medical Center provides emergency care if needed. For lodging, options include downtown hotels (SureStay/Best Western, Courtyard by Marriott) and motels on Rts. 2/4 and in neighboring Solomons Island (about 8 miles south). Several convenience shops (Seven-Eleven, Sheetz) and a grocery store (Shopper’s Food) are also within 3–4 miles, useful for stocking up on snacks or souvenirs. On-site parking is plentiful, but ride-share pickup/drop-off can be easier at Solomons Island Road and Calvert High School if the fair lots are full. Public restrooms and picnic areas are scattered on the grounds, but nearby Town Center parks offer additional seating if you want a quiet break. Late-night transport: Uber or Lyft services do run in the county, but often with a wait – it’s wise to pre-book a ride home if staying late.
What Makes This Venue Special
The Calvert County Fair’s big draw is its local charm and tradition. It’s more than a carnival; it’s a living showcase of Southern Maryland culture and farming heritage. Visitors love that it’s a family-friendly community gathering – one review raves that the fair “brings together the community for a fun-filled experience,” complete with unique local foods (roasted turkey legs, homemade ice cream) and nightly mini shows (wanderlog.com ). Agriculturally, it’s a highlight for county farmers and 4-H kids; there’s no other local event where dozens of prize-winning pigs went from the exhibition barns straight to the 4-H auction on Saturday afternoon (www.choosecalvert.com ) (thebaynet.com ). Historic quirks include the long-running Calvert Fair Idol (talent contest) and Miss Tranquility pageant, plus beloved novelties like live pig racing and foam parties for kids. The fair officials emphasize tradition: as one article noted, breaking the 135-year run by canceling in 2020 was described as a “tough decision” to protect community safety (thebaynet.com ). When the fair returns, it underscores how much locals treasure the event. In short, it’s special for its blend of “educational community showcases” and old-fashioned fun (calvertcountyfair.com ) (www.mapquest.com ), a rare midsize fair where city folks and farmers alike share in the spirit of rural Southern Maryland.
Visitor Tips and Information
When to arrive: Plan extra time for traffic on Routes 231 and 506, especially on Friday–Sunday. Weekday afternoons (e.g. Thursday) tend to be quieter. If you want to beat crowds for a particular show, arrive at least 15–20 minutes early. The gates usually open around 4–5pm on opening day (thebaynet.com ) and around 9–10am on weekend days (thebaynet.com ).
What to bring: Comfortable shoes are a must – the fairgrounds cover many acres of gravel and grass. Check the weather; bring umbrellas or jackets for rain or evening chills. Since admission is cash-only, carry small bills or have alternative payment ready (though several vendors take cards) (thebaynet.com ). A camera or phone for photos is great – attendees often share on social media – but remember outlet eg trademarks, so ask if you’re setting up a tripod for more than casual use. Note that large backpacks and coolers are generally discouraged; best to bring a small daypack. The fair allows outside food (most people bring some snacks or a picnic blanket), but alcoholic beverages and pets are strictly prohibited (calvertcountymd.gov ).
On-site navigation: Pick up a fair program at the main entrance to see the layout. Major areas (Livestock Pavilion, Main Hall, Pavilion stage, etc.) are usually marked on the fair map. Mobile phone reception can be spotty under metal roofs, so don’t rely on signal; if meeting up with friends, pick a clear landmark (for example, “meet at the Ferris wheel” or by the Exhibit Hall entrance).
Accessibility: The fairgrounds are ADA-accessible – ramps and reserved parking are available, and most indoor venues (like the Pavilion) have level floors (www.waze.com ). A limited number of electric mobility scooters may be rentable at the entrance (contact fair management ahead if needed). All areas of the midway are paved or packed gravel. If you or your party has special needs, Thursday’s Senior/Special-Needs Day is often slower-paced and can be a more relaxed introduction for first-time fairgoers.
Avoiding pitfalls: One common mistake is underestimating how far apart attractions are. Don’t try to see everything; pick your must-see events (livestock shows, main concerts) and focus on those. Also watch the clock: for example, Youth Day ends free entry at 4pm (thebaynet.com ), after which normal admission resumes. Finally, keep an eye on donated items: canned food drives and charity collections happen at gates or stands some nights, so be ready if you want to participate (or to skip if walking in late at night).
Age and environment: This is a very family-friendly fair – children of all ages are welcome and there are no blanket age restrictions (www.bandsintown.com ). Do note that some features (e.g. livestock auctions on Saturday night) aren’t very interesting to toddlers, and loud noises from pig races or tractor pulls may startle little ones – ear protection can help. Otherwise, normal casual attire (T-shirts, shorts, caps) is perfect; there is no dress code. Remember sunscreen and hydration if it’s a hot day, and use designated smoking areas if needed (smoking is restricted to outdoor staff areas).
Frequently Asked Questions
When and where is the Calvert County Fair held each year?
The fair is held every fall, traditionally on the last Wednesday through Sunday of September, at the Calvert County Fairgrounds (140 Calvert Fair Dr, Prince Frederick, MD). It runs roughly mid-week through weekend each year (calvertcountyfair.com ).
What are the admission prices and special discount days?
General admission is $10 for adults (ages 12 and up) and free for children 11 and under (calvertcountymd.gov ). Special promo days do occur: e.g. Thursday is often Senior/Special Needs Day with free entry and lunch for qualifying seniors (calvertcountymd.gov ), and Friday (“Youth Day”) usually lets minors in free during early afternoon (thebaynet.com ). Watch for one-time deals like “Feed the Needy Night” when admission may be a $1 donation of food (thebaynet.com ).
How do I buy tickets or wristbands for rides?
Tickets and wristbands are sold on-site at the fair. There is no separate online box office for the fair itself. You can purchase day tickets at the entrance gate (cash only; ATMs are available) and ride tickets at the carnival ticket booths. For unlimited rides, wristbands (e.g. $20 for one evening’s unlimited rides) are usually sold during the late afternoon or evening as announced (thebaynet.com ). In short, arrive at the fairgrounds and buy what you need there – admission and rides are handled in person.
Is the fair wheelchair accessible?
Yes. The Calvert County Fairgrounds provides wheelchair-accessible entrances, ramps and restrooms (www.waze.com ). Parking also includes ADA-designated spots near the main facilities. Most exhibit halls and the Pavilion stage area are flat-floored. If you need assistance, the fair’s information booth can direct you to accessible paths and elevators (where available) throughout the grounds.
What are the parking options and costs?
Parking at the fairgrounds is free for all attendees (calvertcountymd.gov ). Large lots surround the main buildings. On busy weekend days (usually Friday–Sunday), an overflow lot is set up at the nearby College of Southern Maryland, with a free shuttle to the fair (thebaynet.com ). No special passes or fees are needed to park on-site, and volunteers will guide you. Note that drop-offs for rideshares are handled at a designated lane by the main entrance.
What facilities and services are available at the fair?
The fair provides customer amenities like restrooms (including accessible restrooms) and first-aid stations. There are food courts with a wide variety of fair food, and souvenir shops. Most vendors accept cards, though some are cash-only (admission is cash-only; beware ATM fees) (thebaynet.com ). A lost-and-found booth is usually in the main hall. The fair does not have coat check or cell charging stations. Free parking and no-pet policies apply (calvertcountymd.gov ). Also remember it’s a “smoke-free” campus except in designated outdoor areas (common for fairs).
Are outside food or pets allowed at the fair?
Outside snacks and non-alcoholic drinks are allowed. However, pets are not permitted (calvertcountymd.gov ). This policy is strictly enforced for safety and because the fair offers plenty of food and activities. You are free to bring a small backpack, a camera, or lawn chairs, but large coolers or glass bottles are discouraged or at least subject to inspection.
What should I wear or bring to the fair?
Dress casually and comfortably. Sneakers or sturdy shoes are best for walking around the fairgrounds. Check the weather forecast: days can be warm and evenings cooler, so bringing a light jacket or a hat/sunscreen is wise. Umbrellas, sunglasses and layers are smart because most events (livestock shows, tractor pull) are outdoors. If you have little ones, ear protection might help during loud attractions (like pig races or chainsaws). Bring cash in small bills for gate tickets or games, just in case – some payment counters prefer exact change. Above all, dress for a day of fun and sometimes messy fair food!
Is there a best time to visit to avoid crowds?
Weekday afternoons (especially the first couple of days) are generally less crowded. Special theme days (Senior Day or Youth Day) may feel busy with targeted groups, but the fairground is large so crowds disperse quickly. Late evening on weekdays can be quieter once building exhibits close (at 9pm). Weekends will have the largest crowds. A good strategy is to arrive before main events start – for example, get to the Pavilion early if you want good seats for the 7pm talent show. Also use online sources (like local news advisories) about traffic and shuttle info (thebaynet.com ) to plan your arrival time.
What nearby restaurants or hotels are convenient?
The fairgrounds are a short drive from Prince Frederick’s dining district. Fast-food and quick options include Chick-fil-A and Wawa just off Solomons Island Road (www.waze.com ). Local favorites (in town or nearby Solomons) include seafood and BBQ restaurants like Nick’s of Calvert or Tugboat Annie’s. For lodging, downtown Prince Frederick has a SureStay (formerly Howard Johnson’s) and a Holiday Inn Express; further out, several motels line MD-4. Solomons Island (10 minutes south) also offers waterfront inns if you plan to stay overnight.
