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 and is one of the oldest fairs in the United States, as well as one of the largest in Pennsylvania.

The fair began in 1852 to show off new ideas in farming and to give people fun things to do. Over time, it has grown to include many more forms of entertainment and dining. While it still keeps its farming roots with activities like petting zoos, livestock judging contests, and a farmer's market, today the fair is especially 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, on Livingston's Lawn 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, with a reenactment of the Battle of Bunker Hill. As the fair grew, they needed more space. In 1889, they moved to a new place on 17th Street 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, which was the first time anyone had done that 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. In 1974, Liza Minnelli delayed her concert to watch Richard Nixon's resignation speech.

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, where you’ll find agriculture-themed activities. The Grandstand is a big outdoor stage for exciting performances. The Farmerama Theater hosts talent contests and daytime shows. The Main Entrance Plaza features special shows like juggling. The Music Tent is where bands play, and Powers Great American Midways is the fair’s carnival with lots of 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 started hosting famous musicians and bands. Guy Lombardo was the first performer to play there.