Every summer, one of Mountain Maryland's favorite traditions returns. The Allegany County Fair & Ag Expo isn't just about rides and cotton candy—it's where generations gather, live music fills the air, local agriculture takes center stage, and some of the best memories of the season are made. Join us this year - July 17-25, 2026!
1. The Fair Food
Yes, of course, you come to the fair for the fried, drizzled cake batter, dusted with powdered sugar. Whether you're craving hand-dipped corn dogs, fresh-cut fries, funnel cakes, kettle corn, lemonade, or homemade ice cream, the fair is a delicious tradition all its own.
2. The Demolition Derby
The crowd goes wild over the sights and sounds of cars crashing into one another during the annual demolition derby. With three separate categories, watch as the 8, 6, and 4 cylinder vehicles take each on and rip each other apart. *Photo by Ryan Brenneman.
3. National Musical Acts
We all know the music is the true highlight of the fair. Every year, the Allegany County Fair brings in national touring acts to cap off the evenings at the Fair. For the 2026 season, Christian acts take center stage with Jeremy Camp, Ben Fuller and Leanna Crawford performing three concert nights.
4. Agriculture at the Heart of It All
The fair is a celebration of Allegany County's agricultural heritage. Meet local farmers, see prize-winning livestock, explore exhibits, and learn about the people who help feed our communities. *Photo from Allegany County Ag Expo Facebook Page.
5. The Model Railroad
The Maryland and West Virginia Model Railroad Association layout is an attraction not to be missed! This is an HO and G Scale model railroad layout located in the old Jockey Club Building at the Allegany County Fairgrounds, south of the main grandstand. The HO system is Digitrax, a system that allows us to control multiple trains and track switches and many others. The G scale layout is standard DC (Direct Current) with lots of houses, people, and one of a kind farm. Train buffs of all ages are welcome to visit and share railroad stories!
6. The Carnival Rides
Get motion sick on the Tilt-a-Whirl. Snuggle up close with your honey as the Ferris Wheel hoists you up to see the vistas. There’s something nostalgic about carnival rides. Something about the simple pleasures of strapping into a chair swing and spinning around in circles. What we love even more is that usually on the Tuesday of fair week, you can purchase one wristband for unlimited rides!
7. Family Traditions
For many families, attending the fair is an annual tradition. Grandparents bring grandchildren, friends reconnect, and new memories are made every summer.
8. The Midway
Nothing says summer like bright lights, carnival rides, games of chance, and the excitement of winning a giant stuffed animal.
9. The Grand Finale Show
There's nothing quite like ending a day at the fair with a spectacular fireworks display. This year, the celebration is even bigger as fireworks are joined by a dazzling drone show commemorating America's 250th, making it one of the can't-miss moments of the summer.
10. Knobly Mountain
And last, of course, is Knobly Mountain - the grand backdrop that surrounds the fairgrounds and holds it all together. Part of the Ridge-and-Valley Appalachians, this iconic cliffside bordering the Potomac River no doubt carries the ancient secrets of this area. We may just have to admit - it is the most beautiful fair setting out there!
The Allegany County Fair and Ag Expo is more than just a carnival! Make a stay out of this multi-day event. Click below for additional event planning specifics.
Learn more by visiting https://alleganycofair.org/fair/.