Champlain Valley Fair

The Champlain Valley Fair runs ten days each summer at the Champlain Valley Exposition in Essex Junction, and the organizer bills it as Vermont's largest annual event. The Grandstand hosts the ticketed Michelob ULTRA Concert Series and motorsports alongside free grandstand shows that come with admission. The days are packed with free entertainment: in 2026 that meant a BMX stunt show, the Flying Cortes, Mutts Gone Nuts, a chainsaw carver, a daily parade and Vermont Music Showcase sets. Horse events run through the fair, from draft horse classes and traditional horse pulling, one of New England's most traditional fair events, to barrel racing, gymkhana, a 4-H show and an Open Horse Show with riders from across New York and New England, plus sheep shearing demos in the Livestock Barn.

The 2027 fair runs August 27 to September 5, open noon to 10 PM on weekdays and 10 AM to 10 PM on weekends. 2027 prices are not out yet; in 2026 adults paid $15 on weekdays and $20 on weekends, children 5 to 12 paid $7, children 4 and under were free, ride bracelets cost $40 and parking was $10 a car, cash only. Daily specials included a $5 Kid's Day, free admission for military and for food donors, a $99 carload deal and $10 entry after 5 PM on weeknights. Concert tickets are sold only through Etix, outside food and coolers are not allowed, and camping is available on the fairgrounds.