General Information
If you're planning to visit the State Fair, here's what you need to know before making the trip.
- What: The Delaware State Fair is a volunteer-supported, nonprofit event dedicated to preserving the area's rich agricultural history through educational exhibits, competitions and demonstrations. This year, the fair theme is “Farmlands to Fair Fans.”
- When: The Delaware State Fair opens at noon on July 20 and will run through July 29.
- Where: The main events will occur at the Fairgrounds at 18500 S. DuPont Highway, Harrington, DE 19952.
Admission
We recommend purchasing tickets in advance to beat the lines. Note that the following rates do not include additional fees.
-
Adults: Tickets for attendees aged 13 and older are $10 online.
-
Youth: Youth tickets for kids ages 6-12 are $5 online.
- Children: All children age 5 and under get in for free.
Are you planning to spend five or more days at the fair? Save a little on admission by purchasing a Five-Day Adult Gate Admission Pass for $35 online.
For more admission information, including details on special discounts and group ticket rates, check the official State Fair website or call 302-398-3269.
Attractions and Events
Here's a sampling of what you can expect from a typical day at the Fair.
- Educational exhibitions: Check out diverse exhibits from groups like the local 4-H Club and FFA, the Delaware Department of Agriculture and the University of Delaware. Check out the Exhibitors page to see what's happening and when.
- Wade Shows Midway Carnival: Friends and families can play the day away at the Wade Shows Carnival! The Carnival opens at 5 p.m. on July 20 and remains open throughout the week.
- Daily entertainment: Something's always happening throughout the fairgrounds! From pig races to BMX stunt shows to nightly parades, you'll never run out of opportunities for excitement.
Visit the official website for the full Delaware State Fair schedule.
Concert Lineup
Want to know who is performing at the Delaware State Fair this year? Notable acts include the following.
- Thursday, July 20: Beloved comedian Gabriel “Fluffy” Iglesias kicks off the festivities with his unique standup style. Tickets start at $40.
- Saturday, July 22: Indulge in a night of '90s nostalgia with throwback hits from Vanilla Ice, Young MC, Color Me Badd and more. Tickets start at $34.
- Wednesday, July 26: ACM New Female of the Year 2022 winner Lainey Wilson takes the stage with her Nashville charm and trademark sound. Tickets start at $39.
- Saturday, July 29: We couldn't think of a better way to close the fair than modern country jams from Tyler Hubbard of Florida Georgia Line and “Emo Cowgirl” Megan Moroney. Tickets start at $39.
All concerts will take place on the M&T Bank Grandstand stage at 7:30 p.m. Check the official website for the full lineup and more information about concerts at the Delaware State Fair.
Other Live Entertainment
Catch the following events between concerts at the M&T Bank Grandstand.
- Demolition Derby: Experience the thrill of the Taylor & Messick Demolition Derby at 7 p.m. on Friday, July 28. Tickets start at $18.
- Harness Racing: Presented by Harrington Raceway & Casino, the harness race begins at 7 p.m. on Thursday, July 27. Bring the whole family — admission is free of charge.
What to Do in Harrington, DE
While you're in the area, why not stay a while? Experience everything Harrington has to offer, from local shops to excellent food.
Where to Stay
Planning to spend several days at the fair? Stay at one of the top hotels in Harrington.
- Holiday Inn Express & Suites: Conveniently located at 17271 S. DuPont Highway, just down the road from the Fairgrounds. Call 302-398-8800, or visit the website for booking information.
- Quality Inn & Suites: Find this pet-friendly hotel at 1259 Corn Crib Road. Call 302-398-3900 for more information, or check booking availability online.
Where to Eat
Some of the best restaurants in Harrington include:
- Rudy's Family Diner: Known for its modern takes on Italian classics, Rudy's Family Diner is an essential part of the Harrington community. Located at 17064 DuPont Highway, Rudy's offers takeout and delivery as well as dine-in service — call the restaurant at 302-786-2766 for more information.
- Main Street Cafe & Sweets: Want to grab breakfast or lunch before arriving at the fair? Main Street Cafe & Sweets is a quaint, locally owned breakfast and lunch cafe located at 29 Commerce St.
- Derby's Bar & Restaurant: Need a good spot for breakfast, lunch or dinner and drinks? Stop by Derby's Bar & Restaurant at 16967 S. DuPont Highway on your way to or from the fair.
- The Stargate Diner: Featuring excellent food and a charming atmosphere, The Stargate Diner is at 16967 DuPont Highway, making it a great place to stop on your way to your hotel. You can book a table online or call the diner at 302-566-6392.
- Bōnz Restaurant & Lounge: Named the best restaurant in Harrington by Delaware Today, Bōnz Restaurant & Lounge is an upscale dining venue connected to the Harrington Raceway & Casino. Offerings include mouthwatering steaks and seafood dishes and various creative appetizers. Be sure to reserve a table in advance!
Things to Do
Here are some ideas to make the most of your time in Harrington.
- Local shopping: In the mood to shop? Check out Harrington's best local stores, including The Clutter Box Antiques & Used Furniture and Downhome Dixie.
- Intriguing museums: Can't get enough farming history? Visit the Messick Agricultural Museum to see antique farm equipment and memorabilia. The Greater Harrington Historical Society also offers three museums dedicated to preserving the region's story through fascinating exhibits.
- Family fun: Harrington has plenty of opportunities for wholesome family bonding. Need to spend more time in the outdoors? Take a nice walk through Browns Branch County Park's beautiful trail to the picnic site and enjoy an outdoor meal together.
- Nightlife: In the mood for some late-night thrills? Look no further than Harrington Raceway & Casino at 18500 DuPont Highway. Boasting 1,300 slots and the state's top poker room as well as one of the oldest racetracks in the nation, Harrington Raceway & Casino is great fun for adults who want to keep the good times going after the fair.
Visit the Harrington travel webpage for even more ways to experience the village of Harrington, Del.
More Tips for a Great Fair Experience
Whether you're new to state fairs or you're a seasoned pro, there are always steps you can take to prepare for your visit. Here are some quick tips for maximizing your Delaware State Fair adventure.
1. Plan Your Day
One of the best ways to make sure you have a memorable time is to build an agenda for each day you're at the fair. It'll help you get to everything you want to do and even leave room for spontaneity.
Ask everyone in your group to review the fair schedule and jot down anything that catches their eye. Then, combine all the lists to create an exciting itinerary.
2. Know What to Bring
Here's what you'll want to take into the fair with you.
- Water bottles: A refillable plastic or metal water bottle is essential for staying hydrated during the day.
- Cash: Many of the vendors at the fair accept cash only, so you'll want to have some on hand. ATMs are also available throughout the fairgrounds in case you forget.
- Sunscreen: You'll be spending most of your day in the sun, so make sure to protect your skin by wearing sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher.
- Sun protection: Bring sunglasses and a hat or visor to protect your eyes and face.
- Food: Deep-fried food is a draw for many people, but you can bring in snacks and beverages if you have people with dietary restrictions in your group.
Of course, there are limits on what you can bring into the fairgrounds. Some examples of prohibited items include:
- Weapons
- Illegal substances and paraphernalia
- Pets
- Noise-making devices like air horns or megaphones
- Laser pointers
- Remote-controlled vehicles or drones
- Fireworks or other explosives
- Skateboards, bicycles, inline skates and scooters
- Anything bearing offensive text or imagery
3. Wear the Right Clothes
Because the Delaware State Fair strives to create a family-friendly environment for guests of all ages, follow their dress code when you walk through the gates.
Generally speaking, you'll want to wear something casual and comfortable. You'll be doing a lot of walking throughout the day, so good walking shoes and breathable clothing are a must — think T-shirts, shorts and comfortable sneakers. And if you're wearing anything with graphics on it, ensure the image and text are kid-friendly.
Check the fair's FAQ page for more information about fairground rules.
Visit the Delaware State Fair Website for More Info!
Whether you're a State Fair regular or you're attending for the first time, you're sure to have a blast. You can find details about events, parking and admission and more on the official Delaware State Fair website. We can't wait to see you at the Fair!
