Howard County Fair

Howard County Fair

The Howard County Fair turns 80 this year, and it's still one of the better fair deals in the region: $10 for anyone 13 and up, $5 for seniors, and kids 12 and under get in free. That pricing changes the math for families. The fair runs eight days, August 8 through 15, at the fairgrounds in West Friendship, with livestock barns, carnival rides, 4-H exhibits, and the usual lineup of fair food.

For younger kids, head to the Kids & Critters Barn and the Little Farmers Building, a hands-on pretend farm where little ones can 'harvest' vegetables and gather eggs. It's the quietest corner of the fair and an easy first stop before the midway noise. Gates open at 8am daily, which sounds early until you remember you have children. Mornings are cooler, calmer, and better for the animal barns.

Parent Tips 💡

• ✓Kids 12 and under are free. That includes the whole week, not just one day. Combined with free parking, entry can cost a family of four just $20.
• ✓Mornings are for animals. The barns open with the gates at 8am. Cooler air, calmer animals, no midway crowds, and the 4-H kids are usually happy to talk about their animals.
• ✓Check ride wristband days. The carnival typically sells unlimited-ride wristbands on select days, which beats per-ride tickets if your kids are riders.
• ✓Cards work at the gate. The front gate takes cash, credit, Apple Pay, and Google Pay, but keep some cash for smaller food stands and games.
• ✓Pack for heat. Mid-August in Maryland means sun hats, water bottles, and sunscreen. Shade is mostly in the barns and exhibit halls.
• ✓The demolition derby is loud. If your lineup includes grandstand events, bring ear protection for little ones or sit high and far back.