The Allentown Fair: A Great Event for Music Lovers and More!
Do you want to spend a week listening to fantastic live music by popular artist? How does munching on your favorite fair foods while enjoying the music sound? Do you love the thrill you get when on a fair ride? Well, if all that is what you are looking for, start planning your trip to an event packed full of excitement and more! The Allentown Fair is one of the greatest events of the summer in the Lehigh Valley. From a petting zoo to thrilling rides, there is something for everyone at the Allentown Fair! Come stay with us at Sayre Mansion and partake in all the festivities. Here are a few things to know about the Allentown Fair.
In October of 1852, the Lehigh County Agricultural Society held the first fair on Livingston’s Lawn. After the successful fair, the Society purchased a larger plot of land. In 1863, there was no Fair due to the Civil War; however, the fairgrounds were used as a staging site for the 176th Regiment of Pennsylvania Volunteers. The Fair resumed in 1863. Later on in the 1880’s, the Allentown Fair grew so much that the Society purchased a larger plot of land! One of the primary features of the new location was the half-mile racetrack, with grandstands capable of seating 2,500 people! The fair was renamed the Great Allentown Fair with the opening of the new fairgrounds.
In the 1960’s, the Allentown Fair began holding musical concerts and performances during the already fun filled week! This drew even more people to the fair! Roy Rogers and Lawrence Welk appeared at the fair during the 1960’s, along with Johnny Carson.
To this day, the Allentown Fair offers many fantastic attractions. On August 30th, the fair will open its gates until September 4th. The Grandstand, a large outdoor stage, is where the fair’s big-name musicians perform. This year, musicians including REO Speedwagon, Keith Urban, Nelly, Tyler Hubbard, and more will be performing at the Grandstand. Don’t miss out on all the fantastic artists. Click here, to find out what days they will be performing.
One show that children and adults will love is the Elephant Encounter. Sponsored by Diefenderfer Electric & Telecommunications, this educational show features Asian elephant Cora and her beautiful African counterpart Shannon. The show will enthrall you and is performed 3 times daily. Another fantastic activity to experience is the 4-H Petting Zoo. A favorite spot for all fairgoers, a visit to the petting zoo is a must. Catch chicks hatching and a host of baby farm animals learning to walk, while wandering through the petting zoo!
A fair is not complete without a midway. The Allentown Fair has a beautiful midway thrilling rides, exciting games, and concessions. Fairgoers can purchase the all day ride wristbands at the gate or in advance. Click here to purchase tickets in advance. The fair also offers individual ride tickets. It costs 5 dollars for 4 tickets.
Less than 20 minutes away from the Sayre Mansion, the Allentown Fair is an event filled with culture and fun! When planning your Allentown Fair itinerary, don’t forget to book your stay at the Sayre Mansion. Our luxurious rooms combine the elegance of the past with the modern conveniences of today. Luxurious amenities combine with historic charm to create an unforgettable experience. And your stay includes a hearty breakfast so you’ll be ready to enjoy all the festivities! We look forward to seeing you soon!
Photo courtesy Lehigh Valley, PA.