ARLINGTON, VA — The Arlington County Fair begins Wednesday, launching five days of carnival rides, live entertainment, food and community activities at Thomas Jefferson Community Center and Park.
An opening ceremony scheduled for 5 p.m. Wednesday will recognize the fair's 50th anniversary. This year's theme, "Stars, Stripes & Summer Nights," also acknowledges nationwide commemorations of America's 250th birthday.
The free fair runs through Sunday, Aug. 16. Organizers said the annual event attracts more than 100,000 visitors with rides, midway games, vendors, food, exhibits and performances.
Musical headliners scheduled to perform during the fair include Pablo Antonio y La Firma, Loveboat, Motorcycle Drive-By and Milk Mountain. A full schedule of local and regional entertainers is available on the fair's website.
Other returning attractions include the Solace Brewing Company beer garden, artisan and community vendors, family activities and indoor competitive exhibits and demonstrations. The indoor exhibits will be available Friday through Sunday.
The midway will feature carnival rides, games and traditional fair food. Although admission to the fair is free, tickets are required for rides.
A new D.C. Sports Zone will offer games and prizes connected to the Capitals, Wizards, Mystics, D.C. United and Washington Spirit. The sports zone will operate from 2 to 8:30 p.m. Friday.
Arlingteens will take over the upper field Friday through Sunday with a ninja obstacle course, silent disco and nightly movie on the lawn. Saturday's schedule also includes morning yoga on the tennis courts.
Fair organizers are introducing digital ride cards and QR codes this year. Ticket booths will remain available for visitors who need assistance, and printed tickets purchased in previous years may still be redeemed. Discounted tickets may be preordered through the fair's ride and ticket information page.
A fully electric Arlington Transit bus fleet will provide free shuttle service each day between the Ballston Mall Garage and the fairgrounds.
Visitors can also use two Zero Waste Recovery Hubs for composting and recycling during the event.
The Arlington County Fair is produced by Arlington County in partnership with the Arlington County Fair Board Inc., an all-volunteer nonprofit organization. Additional information about entertainment, transportation and other activities is available at arlingtoncountyfair.us.
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