Don’t miss out on the Washington State Fair this September!
Looking for something fun to do this September? If you’ve never been to the Washington State Fair, you’re in for a real treat. This annual fair is arguably Washington state’s biggest event, with over a million people visiting to take part in the 20 days of food, live entertainment, rides, exhibits, and festivities. The fair has been around since 1900 and is one of the biggest fairs in the world. This year, the Washington State Fair takes place in Puyallup, WA (less than an hour’s drive from Seattle) from Friday, September 2 to Sunday, September 25. There is a lot to do and see at the fair so we put together this handy guide for you.
Read on for all the important info you’ll need for attending the fair!
First, keep in mind that the fair is not open every day this September. The dates that the Washington State Fair are closed are: September 6, 7, 13, and 20.
On days that the fair is open, the hours vary from 9:30 a.m. to 9:30 p.m. and 10:30 a.m. to 10:30 p.m. There are also specific hours for rides and alcohol service. You can see the exact daily hours by visiting the fair website.
To gain admission to the fair, you can buy your tickets online or at the fair gates. Kids age 5 and younger always have free admission to the Washington State Fair.
If you’re on a budget, you can take advantage of the fair’s free admission days. Friday, September 2 and Friday, September 9 are free admission days for all between the hours of 10:30 a.m. and 12:3o p.m, with donations suggested. BECU Free Kids Weekend runs from Friday, September 2 to Monday, September 5 with all-day free admission for kids under the age of 18. And finally, every Monday at the fair is Military Appreciation Day, with free admission for all active, reserve, and retired military and National Guard and their dependents, plus disabled veterans.
Once you’re at the fair, you may find yourself overwhelmed with options. We suggest checking out the fair’s events schedule to see what events you’re interested in, from live music to fireworks. The majority of the fair’s events are free and family-friendly.
Separate tickets are required for the fair’s live concert series. You’ll be able to see a lineup that includes Blake Shelton, The Beach Boys, Lynyrd Skynyrd, and more!
If you’ve been to the fair before, you may want to prioritize the highlights that are new this year. For the first time this year, you’ll be able to explore a free History Experience exhibit, see moving dinosaurs, coo over a miniature animal show, get hands-on at The Farm at Sillyville, and more.
Finally, be sure not to leave without sampling the fair food! You’ll find everything from classic fair staples like cotton candy to vegan and gluten-free options. This year’s fair-goers will also have the chance to try new food vendors including Seattle’s Glow Tea (bubble tea in glowing light bulb cups!) and Lumberjack Popcorn, plus new “extreme carnival eats” such as deep-fried mac and cheese, cotton candy ice cream sandwiches, and donut burgers. Yep, that’s a beef hamburger with two donuts as buns. Bring your appetite (and maybe some Tums as well)!
Washington State Fair
Address: 110 9th Avenue SW Puyallup, WA 98371
Hours: Sept 2-25 (closed Tuesdays and September 7). See daily hours here.