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Top 10 Things to Do at the Dutchess County Fair

Date Published: July 6, 2022

1. Get a Local Milkshake

Ask any local, the first stop at the Fair is to grab a Dutchess County Dairy Committee Milkshake at the 4H building. These famous shakes don’t disappoint, coming in chocolate, vanilla and strawberry all made with local Hudson Valley Fresh milk. The long lines are always worth the wait and all the proceeds benefit Dutchess County agricultural students!

Dutchess County Fair

2. Visit Livestock Hill

Fairs as we know them started as a way for farmers to get together to showcase the very best of their livestock. At the Dutchess County Fair, this tradition is still very much alive! Witness the judging, visit the animals, and learn more about agriculture to gain a greater appreciation.

Dutchess County Fair
Photo by Suzan Myrtle

3. Watch and Participate in a Street Performance

As you meander through the fairground, stop to engage in the various street performances. From magicians to jugglers, they’re sure to wow the crowds and even get your involved in the show!


RELATED CONTENT: To check out our list of the Top 10 Ways to Enjoy the Hudson River in Dutchess County, click here.


4. Cheer on the Dock Dogs

There are so many fun activities going on at the fair. Whether it’s pig races or horse shows, there’s excitement to be found. One of our favorites is watching the Dock Dogs compete! Cheer the canines on as they run and jump for their best height or distance. Fun for the whole family!

5. Admire the Horticulture Building

No visit to the Fair would be complete without a walk through the Horticulture Building. Area landscapers gather to showcase their talents in breathtaking garden displays.

Dutchess County Fair

6. Get a Thrill on the Fair Rides

It wouldn’t be a fair without rides, right?! Whether you like to get dizzy, have a need for speed, or seek an above ground view from the ferris wheel, everyone’s sure to have a blast.

7. Shop Local Vendors

Take home local, handcrafted gifts! With everything from specialty food items and accessories, to clothing and unique gifts, shop til you drop!

Dutchess County Fair

8. Indulge in Fair Food

How often do you indulge in fried dough, cheese fries, corn on the cob and cotton candy? One of the best parts about the Fair is hands down the delicious food! 

9. People of All Abilities Can Enjoy ThinkDIFFERENTLY Thursday

We invite individuals and families with developmental disabilities to “ThinkDIFFERENTLY Thursday” at the Dutchess County Fair on August 25, 2022. Individuals with developmental disabilities and families will be able to enjoy the Dutchess County Fair ahead of the crowds with a special early gate opening at 9:00 a.m. and sensory-sensitive hours throughout the morning on the carnival midway from 9:30 a.m. to noon.


RELATED CONTENT: For details on the new Sensory Safe Suite at Dutchess Stadium, click here.


10. Stay for a Concert in the Grandstands

Don’t let sunset mean your day is done, stick around in the evenings for live music by well-known artists. Check out the Grandstand Concert Series schedule and purchase tickets here.

Dutchess County Fair

Details

The Dutchess County Fair takes place annually in Rhinebeck at the Dutchess County Fairgrounds, the last full week in August (Tuesday-Sunday). The hours are 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. Tuesday through Saturday and 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. on Sunday. To read important visitor information for the Fairgrounds, click here.

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