Carnival rides, farm animals, live entertainment and more will mingle at Frying Pan Farm Park this week for the 75th annual Fairfax County Carnival and Fair.
Organized by Fairfax County 4-H and the Fairfax County Park Authority, the festivities at 2709 West Ox Road in the Herndon area will kick off this Thursday (July 31), with the carnival rides and games operating from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m.
Big Truck Night will follow from 5-7 p.m. on Friday (Aug. 1), and the 4-H Fair will take place on Saturday and Sunday (Aug. 2-3), bringing farm-related demonstrations, competitions, exhibits and other activities.
The 4-H Fair will open at 10 a.m. on Saturday with a closing ceremony at 4 p.m. Sunday. The carnival rides will be available from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. throughout the event, but there will be a pause from 4-5 p.m. every day.
The 4-H Fair serves as a showcase for the local youth who participate in the organization’s many educational programs. Supported by the Virginia Cooperative Extension, Fairfax County 4-H offers a summer camp and a variety of clubs that focus on agriculture, STEM, healthy living and civic engagement.
“We’re excited to celebrate the 75th anniversary of Fairfax County’s 4-H Fair, honoring decades of positive youth development and accomplishments,” 4-H Extension Agent for Fairfax County India Pearson said in a press release. “This milestone is a tribute to the talent, dedication and future leadership of our youth here in Fairfax County.”
While the overall carnival and fair are free to attend, a $10 parking fee will kick in after 4 p.m. on Friday and remain in place throughout Saturday and Sunday.
In addition, tickets are also required for the carnival rides. Unlimited ride wristbands are available for Thursday and Friday, costing $21.25 per person if purchased online before the carnival opens at 10 a.m. on Thursday or $25 per person at the gate between 10 a.m. and 3 p.m.
A full schedule for the 4-H Fair events, including demonstrations and shows featuring various animals, can be found on the park authority’s website.
In the press release, Fairfax County Park Authority Executive Director thanked the many sponsors and other organizations that support the annual carnival and fair.
This year’s “grand champion” sponsor is the Ruth and Hal Launders Charitable Trust, a Herndon-based nonprofit foundation that awards grants to organizations dedicated to addressing homelessness, food insecurity, education and children’s welfare.
“At its heart, the Fairfax County Carnival and Fair is about bringing people together,” Cole said in a statement. “Through our strong partnerships and community support, this event offers a vibrant space where families can enjoy classic fair fun, explore local resources, and build lasting memories.”
