Have You Been to the York Fair in Pennsylvania?

Getting to Know York Fair

Known as the first fair in America, the York Fair was first held in the historic old town of York in 1765, eleven years before the nation was founded. A charter to hold that fair was granted to the people of York by Thomas Penn, son of William Penn in recognition of “the flourishing state to which the town hath arrived through their industry.” Those early gatherings were reported to have been “the liveliest days of the whole year.”

The fair originally existed as a two-day agricultural market on the town commons, now known as Penn Park. The annual fair has persisted and transformed through the storms and blooming of history, reflecting changes in American culture and local economy.

In 1997, the fair expanded from what had evolved into a nine-day fair to become a ten-day fair that now includes two full weekends. It opens on the first Friday after Labor Day and closes on Sunday of the second weekend of September.

Fair Entertainment and Exhibits

When it comes to entertainment York Fair has the music covered. With headliners like Tyler Farr, Chase Rice, Alabama, “I love the 90’s Tour”, and the daily lineup on the Radio Stage and Heritage Hall there will be plenty of boot-tapping and hip-swinging.

This county fair takes its livestock and agriculture seriously. Check out the animal birthing center and be sure to stop by the Farm Animal Learning Center that benefits 4-H Clubs of York County. Then mosey over to the Horticulture Hall and experience fresh local produce, wines, flowers and delicious baked creations.

With so much to see and do at the Fair, you never know what or who you’ll run into wandering the fairgrounds. You can find the full story of entertainment and exhibits at the York Fair Website.

An easy 18-mile drive from our Bed & Breakfast, you can fill your days wandering the grounds of a long lineage of history at the York Fair. Feel the gentle breeze of the last days of Summer– which actually may not be a breeze at all but the brush of a ghost enjoying the festivities along with you!

Relax at B.F. Hiestand House Bed and Breakfast after a day or two at the York Fair and your ghost friends stay with you for free.  

Make your reservations on our website or phone in your room request or questions.