There’s just something special about a fair. I suppose it’s that little bit of Americana and tradition that I love. It’s a time to embrace our local farmers and youth, to show off a bit with a craft or baked item, and to have fun with our neighbors. If you think it’s just about the rides, think again. There’s fun at the fair whether you’re an adrenaline junky or not.
Our own Calvert County Fair isn’t big, but it certainly has enough there to keep you busy all day. My girls love the rides, of course, but I don’t like lines, so we get there early to ride as many as we can before the lines start, then we walk around, visit the vendors, and see the shows and animals.
Even after 6 hours yesterday, we hadn’t seen it all. There are shows all day, every day, some by local youth with dance, martial arts, and skateboard shows, and other things like the log carver and the reptile guy with his 9’ python.
Until this fair, I’d never seen pig or duck races, and now I can say not only have I seen them both, but it’s surprisingly entertaining to watch racing pigs and ducks that run instead of fly. The younger kids enjoy this and the puppet shows too.
I love the animals, so we always visit the barns to see the livestock, poultry, and rabbits. You can pet baby cows, goats, and pigs. The barns have hand-sanitizer at the doors, so you can clean your hands afterwards.
Spend all day and you won’t be bored or hungry (there is some great food this year), just make sure and bring cash. There are ATM machines on the fair grounds, but the ticket vendors, games, and most food stands take cash only, so come prepared. The great thing is that Rosedale Attractions will accept ride tickets next year, so if you didn’t use them all, don’t throw them away!
The Calvert County fair is a great tradition that celebrates 127 years this year. It began with farmers, but has something for everyone. If you love rides, you’ll find them, but don’t forget to look around. You may be surprised how much you’ll find at the fair.