08/19/2025
The 135th Washington County Fair opened Monday, Aug. 18, and runs to Sunday, Aug. 24.
READ: https://www.glensfallschronicle.com/washington-county-fair-its-the-whole-package/
What’s the biggest draw?
“It’s the package,” replies Frank Nestle, the Fair treasurer. “We offer so much, and everything except amusement rides are included in the admission — all the exhibits, motor sports, music, vendors, community organizations. And of course the foods!”
He says, “Last year was a very good year, with record attendance. We’re happy every year when we have over 100,000 people at the Fair. Saturdays are big, but we would like to see people come on any day. Might be less hectic at other times.”
Mr. Nestle notes, “With our diversity we do not try to change very much in any one year. We always have some new music and entertainment acts.”
About 550 milk cows, 150 beef cattle, 200 goats, more than 25 swine are expected at this year’s Fair.
Some of the entered animals may not show “due to conflicts in their social calendar,” Mr. Nestle joked in an email interview. “But we get about the number….”
Plus about 340 poultry participants including chickens, ducks, geese, turkeys, peacocks, guinea hens — “all of that and rabbits,” Mr. Nestle says. And sheep and horses, etc.
More than 450 youth exhibitors show their livestock, photography, woodworking, vegetables, foods, artwork, sewing, crafts and more. Mr. Nestle says the number of youth exhibitors has increased “in the last couple years.”
“Ag is a very strong and a vital part of where and who we are,” in Washington County, Mr. Nestle says. “Some aspects like dairy have consolidated, and also there is growth with more diversity, vineyards and vegetables.”
“I just toy with farming,” Mr. Nestle said, “have a few sheep, etc…” However, “I’ve been involved in one way or another (with the fair) since the 1970s.”
The Fair basics
Admission: $15, $45 weeklong pass, free for active military & ages 13-under.
Gates open: Monday 5-10 p.m.; Tuesday to Saturday, 10 a.m. to 10 p.m.; and Sunday, 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. Rain or shine.
READ THE REST: https://www.glensfallschronicle.com/washington-county-fair-its-the-whole-package/