The Stark County Fair is one of Ohio’s largest and longest-running county fairs, held every year at the 80-acre Stark County Fairgrounds in Canton. In 2026, the fair runs September 1 through September 7, bringing seven days of livestock shows, grandstand entertainment, demolition derbies, amusement rides, fair food, craft exhibits, and Junior Fair 4-H competitions. If you’re planning your first visit or just want to know what’s new this year, here’s what you need to know about getting there, parking, ticket pricing, and the best times to go to skip the worst crowds.
How to get there and where to park
The fairgrounds sit just west of downtown Canton with easy access from four major roads: I-77, US Route 30, US Route 62, and Tuscarawas Street. From I-77 southbound, take Exit 106 (13th Street), turn right at the end of the ramp, go two traffic lights, then turn left onto Wertz Avenue. From I-77 northbound, take Exit 105 (Tuscarawas Street), turn left, and go to Wertz Avenue. The fairgrounds have two main vehicle entrances on Wertz Avenue at Fourth Street and at Seventh Street.
Parking during the fair can be the most frustrating part of the experience, especially during peak hours (Saturday afternoon, Sunday evening Labor Day weekend). If you’re going on a Saturday, plan to arrive before 3 PM or after 8 PM to avoid the worst lot congestion. Parking is on-site but fills quickly; the fair board typically allows street parking in adjacent neighborhoods, though residential restrictions apply on some streets. Handicap parking is available near the main gates; arrive early to claim those spots.
What happens during fair week
The Stark County Junior Fair 4-H program is one of the strongest in Ohio and has set the state record for livestock sales nine years running. If you’re bringing kids, the livestock barns, petting zoo, and Junior Fair exhibits are must-sees. The grandstand hosts major events each evening including demolition derby, truck and tractor pulls, motorcross, and harness racing, plus concerts featuring country and rock acts. Check the posted schedule at the entrance or online before you go since the lineup varies each day.
Food is a tradition at Stark County Fair. Expect classic fair fare: elephant ears, cotton candy, deep-fried Oreos, corn dogs, and the famous Stark County Fair fresh-squeezed lemonade. Local 4-H clubs also run food stands with homemade pies and sandwiches; supporting those stands directly funds youth agricultural programs in the county.
Admission pricing and wristband deals
Ticket prices change year to year. For 2026, general gate admission is typically $8-10 for adults, with children under 8 free when accompanied by a paying adult. The best value is the advance-purchase book or multi-day wristband sold through the fair office before opening day. These books bundle gate admission plus amusement ride credits at a significant discount versus paying gate-by-gate. Check starkcountyfair.com in mid-August for the current wristband pricing.
Seniors age 65+ often receive discounted or free admission on designated days (check the schedule). Active-duty military and veterans with ID typically receive discounted admission throughout the week. If you’re coming with a group of 20+, call the office at (330) 452-0621 to ask about group rates.
Best time to visit to beat the crowds
Weeknights (Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday) after 4 PM are the least crowded times. Friday evening and all day Saturday are the busiest. Sunday during the day is moderately busy; Monday (Labor Day) is very busy for the closing events and final demolition derby. Rainy weekdays are also quieter, though some outdoor attractions close. If you’re bringing small children who tire easily, go Tuesday or Wednesday evening right when gates open at 4 PM; you’ll hit shorter ride lines and less heat.
Year-round events at Stark County Fairgrounds
The 80-acre fairgrounds host events year-round beyond the September fair. Regular events include the Stark County Gem and Mineral Show, horse shows, auto shows, swap meets, home and garden shows, antique fairs, demolition derbies, craft shows, and community festivals. The site’s heated buildings make it a viable winter venue too. To rent space for your own event (company picnic, corporate meeting, wedding reception), contact the Stark County Fair Office at (330) 452-0621.
Frequently Asked Questions
When is the Stark County Fair 2026?
September 1 through September 7, 2026. That’s Tuesday through Monday (Labor Day). Hours are Tuesday through Thursday 4 PM to 10 PM, Friday through Sunday noon to 10 PM, and Monday noon to 6 PM.
Where is the Stark County Fairgrounds?
305 Wertz Avenue NW, Canton, OH 44708. The fairgrounds are just west of downtown Canton with direct access from I-77 (Exits 105 and 106), US Route 30, US Route 62, and Tuscarawas Street.
How much does admission cost?
For 2026, expect general gate admission around $8-10 per adult, with children under 8 free when accompanied by a paying adult. Advance wristband books that bundle gate admission plus ride credits offer the best value. Call the fair office at (330) 452-0621 or check starkcountyfair.com in mid-August for the latest pricing.
Are there senior or veteran discounts?
Yes. Seniors 65+ often receive discounted or free admission on designated days during the fair week; check the annual schedule for specific senior days. Active-duty military and veterans with valid ID typically receive discounted admission throughout the entire week.
Can I park at the fairgrounds during the fair?
Yes. On-site parking is available at the Wertz Avenue/Fourth Street gate and the Wertz Avenue/Seventh Street gate, but it fills fast during peak hours (especially Saturday afternoon and Sunday evening). Arrive before 3 PM or after 8 PM on weekends to avoid the worst of it. Handicap parking is available near the main gates.
What’s the best day to go with young children?
Tuesday or Wednesday evening. Gates open at 4 PM with fewer crowds, shorter ride lines, and cooler temperatures than the weekend days. If you want to see the full livestock exhibits and Junior Fair, those run throughout the week during afternoon hours.
Does the fair still run if it rains?
Yes, the fair continues in light to moderate rain. Many of the main exhibit buildings and barns are indoors, so you can still see livestock shows, craft exhibits, and food vendors. Outdoor rides typically shut down during heavy rain or lightning and reopen when conditions improve. Grandstand events may be delayed but rarely cancelled outright.
Planning your Stark County Fair visit
If it’s your first time going, give yourself at least 4 hours to see the main attractions: livestock barns, Junior Fair exhibits, grandstand show, midway rides, and food hall. Bring cash since some smaller vendors still prefer it, plus sunscreen and water for daytime visits. Wear comfortable walking shoes. The fairgrounds are stroller-accessible but the walkways get dusty, so don’t bring anything you can’t clean. Keep kids’ identification on them and agree on a meetup spot in case anyone gets separated; the Stark County Sheriff maintains a Lost Child station at the main entrance during all hours.