The annual Fairfax County Carnival and Fair will return to Frying Pan Farm Park in Herndon tomorrow (Thursday) for four days of food, rides and animals.
Now in its 76th year, the event serves as the county’s signature summer celebration and a showcase for the local 4-H organization, which promotes agriculture, civic engagement, science and healthy living through a variety of programs for kids aged 5 to 18.
“The Fairfax County 4-H Fair is where agriculture, learning and community come together to create something truly extraordinary,” India Pearson, Virginia Cooperative Extension’s Fairfax County 4-H agent, said in a press release. “For more than 75 years, our fair has celebrated Fairfax County’s agricultural heritage while showcasing the incredible talents, creativity and dedication of our youth.”
Like in previous years, the carnival rides and games will kick off first at 10 a.m. tomorrow with an official opening ceremony at 7 p.m.
Wristbands for unlimited rides are available for sale online now for $25 per day, though the price will increase to $30 once the carnival starts. Tickets for individual rides can be purchased on site between 10 a.m. and 3 p.m. throughout the carnival.
Friday (July 31) will be highlighted by a Big Truck Night at 5-7 p.m., and the 4-H Fair will begin with an opening ceremony at 10 a.m. on Saturday (Aug. 1), bringing exhibits, free activities, farm animal shows, and horse and dog demonstrations.
The carnival will continue until 7 p.m. on Sunday (Aug. 2), while the 4-H Fair will end with a closing ceremony at 4 p.m. that day.
A more detailed schedule of the 4-H activities can be found in the event’s digital guide.
While the overall event is free to attend, there will be a $10 fee per vehicle for parking at Frying Pan Farm Park (2709 West Ox Road) on Friday, Saturday and Sunday.
The summer tradition is organized annually by the Fairfax County Park Authority in conjunction with the Fairfax County Department of Neighborhood and Community Services, the county’s office of the Virginia Cooperative Extension, the Fairfax County Park Foundation and the Friends of Frying Pan Farm Park.
“At its heart, the Fairfax County Carnival and Fair is about bringing people together,” Park Authority Executive Director Jai Cole said. “Families come here to make memories, explore hands-on activities and celebrate the creativity and hard work of our youth.”
