Ready, Set, Fair!

Making the Most of Your Champlain Valley Fair Experience

One of the things we love about the Champlain Valley Fair is that there are so many ways to experience it. Whether you're planning a full day of rides and food, coming for a favorite concert, or simply looking to spend time with family and friends, a little preparation can help you get the most out of your visit.

As the presenting sponsor, we're excited to help make the Fair a memorable part of summer. Here are a few ideas to help you maximize your fun and your budget.

Take Advantage of Special Admission Days

The Fair offers a variety of discounts and special promotions throughout its run, making it easy to choose the day that works best for your family.

• Friday, August 28: Kid's Day with $5 admission for children ages 5–12. Kids four and under are always free!
• Monday, August 31: Military Appreciation Day, when military members (past and present) receive free admission with valid ID.
• Tuesday, September 1: Senior Day, featuring $12 admission for adults age 55 and older with valid ID.
• Wednesday, September 2: Simon's Carload Special Day, which includes admission, parking, and ride bracelets for everyone in one vehicle (up to the legal load limit) with Simon’s coupon. One coupon per car. Coupons will be made available at your local Simon’s store in early August. Simon’s locations
• Thursday, September 3: Hannaford Feed A Family Day, where from noon–2pm a donation of two non-perishable food items can earn free admission. Bring two additional items and get $10 off a ride bracelet.
• Thursday, September 3: College Night, offering free admission all day for currently enrolled college students with valid ID. $10 adult admission after 5pm on weeknights.
• Midweek Madness, featuring special $4 food deals from participating vendors Tuesday through Thursday.

Plan Your "Must-Dos"

The Fair has something happening around every corner, from rides and games to agricultural exhibits, demonstrations, live music, and competitions. Taking a few minutes beforehand to identify your top priorities can help you make the most of your day.

If rides are at the top of your list, a ride bracelet may offer the best value. If you're more interested in entertainment and exhibits, you may find there's enough included with admission to fill an entire day.

Enjoy the Free Attractions

Some of the Fair’s most memorable experiences are included with admission. Take time to explore favorite free attractions, including:

• Animal barns, agricultural exhibits, giant pumpkins and the sand sculpture celebrating the Fair’s agricultural heritage
• Demonstrations such as fiber arts, cooking, horse presentations, sheep dog events, and shearing
• Local musicians and free shows, including the magician, hypnotist, Mutts Gone Nuts, and Flying Cortes

Check the daily schedule for the full lineup of free happenings, and don’t miss the 3pm parade, which ends with an animal meet and greet.

Set a Spending Plan Before You Arrive

It's easy to get caught up in the excitement once you're through the gates. Setting a rough budget for food, games, rides, and souvenirs ahead of time can help reduce stress and make decision-making easier throughout the day.

If you're visiting with children, consider giving them a small spending budget of their own. It can be a fun opportunity to practice money-management skills while making choices that matter to them.

Think About Food Strategically

Fair food is part of the experience, and there are plenty of options to choose from. If you're looking to stretch your dollars a little further, keep an eye out for $4 Midweek Madness specials available from participating vendors on Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday.

You may also want to prioritize a few "can't miss" treats and balance them with other lower-cost options throughout the day.

Focus on the Memories

At the end of the day, the Fair is about more than rides, games, or food—it's about spending time with people you care about and enjoying one of Vermont's favorite summer traditions.

Whether you're watching a livestock competition, listening to live music, cheering at an event, or simply sharing a meal together, many of the best Fair memories come from the experience itself.

Have a wonderful time at the Champlain Valley Fair, and we hope to see you there!