Held in Timonium from the 27th to September 13th Packed with Attractions Including Rides, Livestock Exhibits, and Horse Racing
The 2026 Maryland State Fair, Maryland's largest festival, will kick off on the 27th and run across three weekends through September 13th at the Maryland State Fairgrounds in Timonium.
This year's event will again feature a wide variety of entertainment, including professional bull riding, livestock exhibits, equestrian competitions, magic shows, horse racing, and log-carving demonstrations, alongside traditional agricultural and horticultural exhibitions. Over 60 rides, such as a giant Ferris wheel and roller coasters, as well as food vendors, will also welcome visitors.
Fair gates open at 5:00 PM on Thursdays, and at 9:00 AM from Friday through Sunday and on Labor Day (September 7).
On-site admission is $15 for general admission (ages 12–61), $12 for seniors (ages 62 and older), and $10 for children (ages 6–11), with free admission for children aged 5 and under. Those who purchase tickets in advance on the official website by August 26, the day before the opening, can save $2 to $3 per ticket.
The ride area operates on a reloadable card system. After paying an initial issuance fee of $2 for a card or wristband, visitors can load as many credits as needed. Unlimited single-day ride passes ($35–$40) are also available depending on the date. However, some popular rides are excluded from the unlimited pass.
Parking is available on-site for $15, or visitors can use free parking on a first-come, first-served basis at the Park & Ride lot on Greenspring Drive and the Kaiser Permanente Parking Garage (Floors 4–7). For public transit, taking the MTA Light Rail to Fairgrounds Station is convenient. Drivers should note that left turns near the entrance routes will be restricted during the fair period.
For safety reasons, only bags 18 inches or smaller, baby supplies, and medical equipment are permitted inside, while coolers, drones, alcohol, weapons, and similar items are strictly prohibited.
Detailed schedules and ticket information can be found on the official website (MarylandStateFair.com).