Barnstable County Fair Coming Back In 2021

EAST FALMOUTH, MA — Cape Cod's biggest outdoor celebration will make a comeback.

After a pandemic year without concerts, fairs and other large gatherings, the Barnstable County Fair will return to East Falmouth from Monday, July 19 to Sunday, July 25, organizers announced Thursday.

Organizers signaled their intentions to bring the fair back last March, but following Gov. Charlie Baker rescinding coronavirus restrictions beginning May 29, the comeback became official.

The fair will have all its usual activities the whole family can enjoy. They include rides, agricultural exhibits, farm animals, a demolition derby, local artisans, vendors, fried fair food and live entertainment. Entertainers scheduled to perform include Billy Bob Thornton and the Boxmasters, The Guess Who, and Frankie Ballard and more.

Organizers said the fair will follow all applicable COVID-19 and public health regulations that may be in place when the fair happens.

Ticket information and vendor applications can be found at the Barnstable County Fair's website.

The Barnstable County Fair has been a staple on Cape Cod since 1844. It's only been canceled a handful of times in its 170-plus year run — including in 2020 amid the coronavirus pandemic. The only other times the fair was canceled were because of war, the polio outbreak and severe weather.

Proceeds from the fair go towards grounds upkeep and more than $30,000 in scholarships for local students.