South Mountain Fair 2026
July 21-25, 2026 | South Mountain Fairgrounds
If your family loves livestock, carnival rides, homemade baked goods, tractor pulls, fireworks, and everything that makes a traditional county fair special, the South Mountain Fair should be on your summer calendar.
Known as Adams County's only agricultural county fair, this beloved annual tradition celebrates the region's farming heritage while offering five days of family entertainment, competitions, exhibits, food, rides, and community fun.
From livestock judging and horse pulls to carnival rides and fireworks, the South Mountain Fair offers the perfect blend of agriculture, education, and classic fair excitement for visitors of all ages.
At a Glance
When: July 21-25, 2026
Time: Fairgrounds open daily beginning at 4 PM
Where: South Mountain Fairgrounds, 615 Narrows Road, Biglerville, PA 17307
Admission: Fair admission applies
Duration: Five days
Best for: Families, animal lovers, agricultural enthusiasts, fair food fans, and children who love tractors, livestock, and carnival rides
Top Picks for Families
Livestock Barns & Agricultural Exhibits
As Adams County's only agricultural fair, livestock remains one of the biggest attractions. Families can visit barns filled with animals being judged and displayed while learning about local agriculture and farm life.
Parent hack: Visit the barns early in the evening before peak crowds arrive and while many animals are most active.
Arts, Crafts & Home Exhibits
The exhibit halls showcase impressive entries from local residents including needlework, arts and crafts, baked goods, canned goods, flowers, vegetables, and fruit. These displays highlight the creativity and talents of the local community.
Parent hack: Encourage children to vote for their favorite exhibits and talk about what skills were needed to create them.
Carnival Rides & Midway Fun
The midway brings all the excitement families expect from a summer fair, including rides, games, lights, and plenty of opportunities to make memories together.
Parent hack: Check for ride specials and wristband promotions before your visit to maximize value.
Horse Pulls, Entertainment & Fireworks
The South Mountain Fair features a variety of traditional fair entertainment including draft horse pulls, miniature horse pulls, musical entertainment, community events, and a fireworks display that helps cap off the fair experience.
Parent hack: Bring hearing protection for younger children attending horse pulls or fireworks events.
Why Families Love the South Mountain Fair
The South Mountain Fair remains deeply connected to its agricultural roots while still offering the rides, food, and entertainment families expect from a traditional county fair.
It provides a wonderful opportunity for children to experience agriculture firsthand while enjoying all the excitement of a summer fair.
Tips for Visiting with Kids
- Wear comfortable shoes. The fairgrounds cover a large area.
- Bring sunscreen. Many activities and exhibits take place outdoors.
- Visit the barns first. Livestock exhibits are among the fair's biggest attractions.
- Bring hearing protection. Especially for pulls, machinery demonstrations, and fireworks.
- Pack water bottles. Summer evenings can still be warm.
- Plan extra time. Between exhibits, rides, food, and entertainment, there is plenty to explore.
Accessibility & Event Information
The South Mountain Fairgrounds include a combination of outdoor pathways, exhibit buildings, barns, and midway areas. Visitors should expect a mix of paved, gravel, and grass surfaces throughout the grounds.
Accessibility may vary depending on weather conditions and specific event locations.
The fair is held rain or shine, and many activities continue regardless of weather conditions.
