Fun and Games Await at Maryland's Biggest Fair

The Maryland State Fair is back, and it's bigger than ever! This year, it's happening over three weekends, starting August 21 and ending September 7. It's the perfect place for families to have a blast together. There's something for everyone at the fair. Food lovers can enjoy delicious treats from all kinds of vendors. Thrill-seekers can hop on exciting rides, and shoppers can browse unique items. Plus, there's free entertainment all day long. Horse racing fans will love the seven days of races featuring top-notch Thoroughbreds. The races kick off at 12:10 p. m. every race day at the Grandstand. It's a great way to spend a sunny afternoon. Art enthusiasts can catch live glass-blowing demos by artist Nate Avery during the first weekend. The demonstrations will be held on Thursday, August 21, from 5 p. m. to 8 p. m. , and on Friday and Saturday, August 22-23, from 2 p. m. to 8 p. m. Animal lovers won't want to miss the Otter Show, featuring playful otters in a fun aquatic performance. The show runs all weekends, with performances on Thursdays at 6:00 p. m. and 8:00 p. m. , and on Fridays through Sundays and Labor Day Monday at 12:00, 3:00, and 6:00 p. m. The Swifty Swine Racing Pigs are back for another season of pig races. Events are scheduled all weekends, with races on Thursdays at 5:30 p. m. and 7:00 p. m. , and on Fridays through Sundays and Labor Day Monday at 12:30, 2:30, 4:30, 6:30, and 8:00 p. m. The fair's concert series, presented by M&T Bank, features some amazing performances. On Saturday, September 6, enjoy the music of Emma White and Ashley Anne. The next day, Friday, September 5, catch the special guest Orianthi. Concerts start at 7:00 p. m. , with gates opening at 6:00 p. m. General admission lawn tickets are $40 each and include fair admission. On Sunday, September 7, the fair will host "Sunday Morning Tunes, " featuring Grateful Dead & Phish for Kids. The show starts at 11:30 a. m. , with gates opening at 11:00 a. m. Tickets are $25 for adults, $16 for children 11 and under, or $80 for a family 4-pack. Children 3 and over will need a ticket for the event. With so much to see and do, the Maryland State Fair is sure to be a hit with everyone. It's a great way to spend quality time with family and friends.