The Oldest Fairs in Maine

The Skowhegan State Fair is the oldest continuously running agricultural fair in the United States, established in 1818 — making it a living piece of American history. Dating to 1818, it is one of Maine's oldest and most enduring agricultural fair traditions. Held every August at the Skowhegan Fairgrounds along the Kennebec River, this nationally recognized fair has set the standard for agricultural exhibitions for over two centuries.

The Bangor State Fair at Bass Park is one of Maine's largest and most popular summer events, held annually at the historic Cross Insurance Center and Bass Park harness racing facility in the heart of Bangor. Dating to 1849, it is one of Maine's oldest and most enduring agricultural fair traditions. This 10-day fair combines world-class harness racing with all the attractions of a major agricultural fair.

The Topsham Fair, now in its 172nd year, is a time-honored mid-coast Maine agricultural tradition held at the Topsham Fairgrounds in Sagadahoc County. Dating to 1854, it is one of Maine's oldest and most enduring agricultural fair traditions. Located just across the Androscoggin River from Brunswick, this six-day fair celebrates the farming heritage of the lower Kennebec and Androscoggin river valleys.

The Cumberland Fair in Cumberland is one of Maine's largest and most prestigious agricultural fairs, drawing tens of thousands of visitors from the greater Portland area and beyond each fall. Dating to 1868, it is one of Maine's oldest and most enduring agricultural fair traditions. Held at the historic Cumberland Fairgrounds, this seven-day fair is a traditional autumn celebration of Maine's agricultural heritage just minutes from Portland.

The Monmouth Fair, organized by the Cochnewagan Agricultural Association since 1907, is one of Maine's earliest summer fairs, bringing agricultural traditions to Kennebec County in late June. First held in 1907, it has been a Maine agricultural tradition for over a century. This community fair offers an affordable, family-friendly experience with strong ties to the local farming community.