September 10–13, 2026 | Franklin County Fairgrounds, Greenfield, Massachusetts
Every September, the Franklin County Fair brings together agriculture, entertainment, local traditions, and family fun in Greenfield, Massachusetts. This year, the fair celebrates its 177th anniversary with the theme “History Grows Here,” highlighting the people, skills, farms, and community traditions that have shaped Franklin County over generations.
From livestock exhibits and agricultural displays to midway rides and grandstand events, the 2026 Franklin County Fair offers four days of activities for visitors of all ages.
Four Days of Fair Fun
The fair opens at 3 p.m. on Thursday, September 10, and Friday, September 11. On Saturday and Sunday, the gates open at 8 a.m., giving visitors extra time to explore the grounds, buildings, exhibits, and attractions.
The fair’s general schedule is as follows:
-
Thursday, September 10: Gates open at 3 p.m.; buildings open from 3 to 9 p.m.
-
Friday, September 11: Gates open at 3 p.m.; buildings open from 3 to 9 p.m.
-
Saturday, September 12: Gates open at 8 a.m.; buildings open from 10 a.m. to 9 p.m.
-
Sunday, September 13: Gates open at 8 a.m.; buildings open from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m.
There is no fixed closing time for the fairgrounds, although the fair generally remains open until at least 9 p.m. on Thursday and Sunday and until at least 10 p.m. on Friday and Saturday. Weather conditions may affect the schedule.
Agriculture and Local Exhibits
Agriculture remains at the heart of the Franklin County Fair. Visitors can explore exhibits showcasing local farming, animal husbandry, horticulture, crafts, food, and youth achievements.
The fair’s buildings include:
-
The Roundhouse
-
Youth Hall
-
Fish & Wildlife Building
-
Dole Building
-
Baby Barnyard
-
Grandstand
-
Poultry and rabbit buildings
The Fair Museum, located near the show ring, provides another way to connect with the region’s past. Its exhibits complement this year’s theme by offering visitors an opportunity to reflect on the history of the fair and the agricultural traditions of Franklin County.
The museum is scheduled to open from 3 to 8 p.m. on Thursday and Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 8 p.m. on Saturday, and 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. on Sunday.
Animals, Exhibitions, and Youth Participation
The fair’s exhibitor program invites participants to enter displays in the Roundhouse and Youth Hall or bring animals such as horses, cows, chickens, rabbits, sheep, and oxen. The official exhibitor’s handbook provides information for those planning to participate.
These competitions and displays are an important part of the fair’s educational mission. They give young people and community members the chance to develop practical skills, present their work, and celebrate the results of careful preparation.
For visitors, the exhibits offer a close-up look at the work behind agriculture—from raising animals and growing crops to creating handmade goods and preparing entries for judging.
Midway Rides for the Whole Family
The Coleman Brothers Midway returns in 2026 with rides and attractions for children, families, and thrill-seekers.
The midway opens at:
-
4 p.m. on Thursday and Friday
-
12 p.m. on Saturday and Sunday
Ride wristbands are available each day, and visitors can purchase them online in advance for a discounted price of $25.
For families planning a full day at the fair, a wristband can be a convenient way to enjoy multiple rides without purchasing individual tickets throughout the afternoon.
Truck Pulls and Demolition Derbies
The grandstand schedule includes several major attractions.
The truck pulls take place on Friday, September 11, at 5:30 p.m. Admission to the event is included with paid fair admission, and no separate ticket is required.
The demolition derby is scheduled for:
-
Saturday, September 12, at 6 p.m.
-
Sunday, September 13, at 6 p.m.
Tickets are required for all ages. Preferred ticket holders may enter the grandstand at 5 p.m., while general admission begins at 5:15 p.m.
These events add high-energy entertainment to a weekend otherwise centered on exhibits, animals, local products, and family activities.
Admission and Parking
The 2026 admission prices are:
-
Adults ages 18–59: $15
-
Opening night adult special: $10
-
Seniors age 60 and older: $10
-
Active military members and veterans with ID: $10
-
Youth ages 9–17: $10
-
Children age 8 and under: Free
-
Parking: $10
The opening-night special makes Thursday an appealing option for visitors who want to experience the fair at a reduced adult admission price.
Planning Your Visit
A little planning can make the fair experience more enjoyable:
-
Arrive early on Saturday or Sunday if you want to visit the animal buildings and exhibits before the busiest part of the day.
-
Check the daily schedule before traveling, especially if you are attending a grandstand event.
-
Bring cash or a payment method for admission, parking, food, rides, and optional activities.
-
Wear comfortable shoes, since the fairgrounds include several buildings and outdoor areas.
-
Families interested in the midway should consider purchasing ride wristbands in advance.
-
Visitors attending the demolition derby should obtain tickets ahead of time, as admission is separate from general fair entry.
Because schedules can change in response to weather or other circumstances, visitors should check the official Franklin County Agricultural Society website before leaving home.
A Celebration of the Past and Future
The theme “History Grows Here” captures what makes the Franklin County Fair distinctive. The event is rooted in agricultural history, but it continues to evolve through youth participation, new exhibits, modern entertainment, and the ongoing work of local farmers, families, volunteers, and community organizations.
Whether you come for the livestock, the exhibits, the food, the midway, the truck pulls, or the demolition derby, the 177th Franklin County Fair offers a lively way to experience one of Franklin County’s enduring traditions.
The fair takes place at the Franklin County Fairgrounds in Greenfield, Massachusetts, from Thursday, September 10, through Sunday, September 13, 2026. For admission details, schedules, exhibitor information, and updates, visit the Franklin County Agricultural Society website.
Photo credit: Franklin County Fairgrounds, Greenfield MA
Franklin County and the Pioneer Valley in Western Massachusetts are known for their vibrant small towns, local farms, artists, and independent businesses. As a longtime local real estate expert, Wanda Mooney shares insights about the communities, lifestyle, and real estate opportunities that make this region such a special place to live.
For more information about community happenings and real estate news visit Wanda's Blog at www.wandamooney.com/blog, or feel free to contact Wanda for professional real estate assistance.
Connect