The Wait is Almost Over!
The Arlington County Fair Starts TODAY!

The countdown is almost complete! The Fair opens today at 5 p.m. for five full days of County Fair fun. Join us at the Thomas Jefferson Community Center & Park as we celebrate 50 Years of Fairs with rides, live entertainment, delicious fair food, unique vendors, competitive exhibits, family activities, and memories waiting to be made. Admission is free, so gather your family and friends for the 2026 Arlington County Fair! 

The celebration officially begins with the Opening Ceremony on today at 5 p.m. on the tennis courts.

Getting to the Fair Remember, there is no general parking on-site. Please plan ahead and consider these options: Free shuttle from Ballston Mall Garage  Free Bike Valet provided by Bike Arlington Public transit and walking are strongly encouraged Limited ADA-accessible parking is available Learn more about these and other transportation options here.

Plan Your Fair Day With so much to see and do, a little planning goes a long way! Visit the Arlington County Fair website to explore the full entertainment lineup, daily schedule of events, maps, vendor listings, food options, parking information, and everything you need to make the most of your fair experience.   Start planning your day!

Pack Smart for a Great Fair Day A little planning goes a long way! Help make your Fair experience as comfortable and enjoyable as possible with these quick tips before you head out.    Stay hydrated. Bring a reusable water bottle and refill it at one of our on-site water bottle filling stations. It's an easy way to stay cool while supporting the Fair's sustainability efforts.    Dress for the weather. August days can be hot and sunny, so don't forget sunscreen, a hat, sunglasses, and lightweight clothing. Be sure to check the forecast before you leave and come prepared for changing weather conditions.    Wear comfortable shoes. With five days of entertainment, exhibits, vendors, rides, and activities, you'll be doing plenty of walking.    Travel light. A small bag or backpack is perfect for carrying your essentials while keeping your hands free for food, games, and rides.

Public Safety Tips

The Arlington County Police Department (ACPD) will be on-site with their mobile command post to help ensure everyone enjoys a safe and fun Fair experience.

Big crowds can mean big fun but also require a little extra planning. Here are a few quick tips from ACPD to help keep little fairgoers safe.

• Snap a photo of your child at the start of the day, including what they’re wearing.
• Ensure children know your cell phone number. 
• Designate a family meet-up spot in case you get separated.

If you haven't already, make sure to sign up for Arlington Alert so you get up to date information on emergencies. Putting safety first will make this a celebration to remember! 

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The Arlington County Fair is produced by Arlington County in partnership with the Arlington County Fair Board, Inc., an all-volunteer nonprofit organization.