Great Allentown Fair

The Great Allentown Fair is an annual fair and agricultural show held at the Allentown Fairgrounds in Allentown, Pennsylvania. It is organized by the Lehigh County Agricultural Society.

The fair began in 1852 to show new farming ideas and give people fun things to do. Over time, it has grown to include more entertainment and food. It still keeps its farming roots with activities like petting zoos, livestock judging contests, and a farmer's market. Today, the fair is also known for its carnival, talent shows, and concerts.

History

19th century

The Lehigh County Agricultural Society held the first fair from October 6 to October 8, 1852, in Allentown. It was very popular, so the next year they bought a bigger place for it. In 1862, there was no fair because of the Civil War, but it started again in 1863. In 1876, they had a big event to celebrate the 100th anniversary of the United States. As the fair grew, they needed more space. In 1889, they moved to a new place and renamed it the "Great Allentown Fair."

20th century

Horse racing was always popular at the fair. In 1905, a famous racehorse named Dan Patch set a record time. In 1911, they built a bigger grandstand. Between 1907 and 1914, airship races were a big attraction. In 1910, pilot Glenn Curtiss flew a plane over the fair for the first time in the area.

In 1920, they started having auto races. Famous racers like Mario Andretti and A. J. Foyt raced there before they became well-known. Musical concerts started in the 1950s with big names like Buddy Holly, Roy Rogers, and Lawrence Welk performing.

21st century

In 2020, the fair was cancelled for the first time since World War II because of the COVID-19 pandemic. It came back the next year in 2021.

Attractions

The Great Allentown Fair has many fun places to explore. You can visit Agriplex/Agriland for activities about farming. The Grandstand is a big outdoor stage for shows. The Farmerama Theater has talent contests and daytime shows. The Main Entrance Plaza has special shows like juggling. The Music Tent is where bands play, and Powers Great American Midways is the fair’s carnival with many rides and games.

Grandstand performances

In 1911, a big grandstand with 7,070 seats was built for horse racing and auto racing. Later, in 1956, the grandstand began to host famous musicians and bands. Guy Lombardo was the first performer to play there.