Destination: Marshfield Fair

County fairs were one of my favorite late summer traditions growing up… like sweet corn and tomatoes. And when I moved from my semi-rural childhood home in Ohio to the East Coast, I thought I’d have to leave them behind. Thankfully, I was wrong!

Several summers ago, my family enjoyed visiting the Barnstable County Fair (held in July) during a vacation in Falmouth. And of course we’ve been to the Topsfield Fair held every year at the end of September, beginning of October. The mix of amusement rides, midway games, agricultural exhibits, unique concessions, and scheduled entertainment offers something for everyone.

Beginning this weekend, the Marshfield Fair will open its gates and I, for one, plan to be there. The fair runs August 19-28, and is open from noon to 10 p.m., Monday through Friday, and 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. on Saturday and Sunday.

Every day features demonstrations by craftsmen including glassblowers and woodcarvers, 4H exhibits and competitions, children’s activities and more. Consult the fair schedule for musical guests, demolition derby details, and more.

Marshfield is an easy ride from Medford (once you get through the I-93 bridge work), only about 45 minutes according to Mapquest. Admission to the fair is $10 per person, children 6 & under are free. (Thursday, August 25 is “Children’s Day,” and children 12 and under are free.) Parking is $5. If the rides are what you love most about a fair, you can print a discount ride coupon online here, or take advantage of one of the wristband specials listed on the fair web site.