Allentown Fairgrounds
A historic fairgrounds hosting the beloved Great Allentown Fair, vibrant farmers markets, and diverse live events.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, easier parking
Allentown Fairgrounds
Best Time
Fewer crowds, easier parking
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A historic fairgrounds hosting the beloved Great Allentown Fair, vibrant farmers markets, and diverse live events.
"It is well worth the entry fee. There is so much to see, so much to eat, drinks and plenty of clean restrooms."
🎟️ Check for Free Admission Days
Look for special free admission days during the Great Allentown Fair to save on entry costs.
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking on varied terrain, so prioritize comfort.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Annual Great Allentown Fair
A quintessential fair experience with rides, games, agricultural exhibits, and live entertainment. A must-visit tradition!
Allentown Farmers Market
Allentown Fairgrounds
A vibrant market offering fresh produce, baked goods, and local delicacies. Perfect for foodies and shoppers alike.
Concerts and Live Performances
Fairgrounds Grandstand
Catch popular artists and local acts. While some headliners can be pricey, the atmosphere is electric.
Fairgrounds Hotel Lobster Flights
Fairgrounds Hotel
Indulge in unique lobster tail flights from around the world. A surprising culinary gem!
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Everything for the Great Allentown Fair
Navigating the Allentown Fairgrounds
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎟️ Check for Free Admission Days
Look for special free admission days during the Great Allentown Fair to save on entry costs.
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking on varied terrain, so prioritize comfort.
📱 Download Event Schedules
Keep track of showtimes, concerts, and special events with the official fair app or website.
💰 Budget for Food & Games
Fair food and carnival games can add up quickly. Plan your spending accordingly.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎟️ Check for Free Admission Days
Look for special free admission days during the Great Allentown Fair to save on entry costs.
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking on varied terrain, so prioritize comfort.
📱 Download Event Schedules
Keep track of showtimes, concerts, and special events with the official fair app or website.
💰 Budget for Food & Games
Fair food and carnival games can add up quickly. Plan your spending accordingly.
🚗 Consider Parking Options
Parking can be busy; explore public transport or ride-sharing for convenience.
🍽️ Make Dinner Reservations
For popular spots like the Fairgrounds Hotel, reservations are highly recommended.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the Great Allentown Fair for its extensive offerings, vibrant atmosphere, and value, especially noting the abundance of food and entertainment. While many find it a worthwhile tradition, some mention that the infrastructure, like sidewalks and restrooms, could use updates, and concert tickets can be pricey.
"I haven't been to this fair in years. All I can say is... It didn't disappoint. It is well worth the $10 entry fee. There is so much to see, so much to eat(extraordinary food), drinks and plenty of clean restrooms. This will be a returning tradition for me. If you have never been to this fair, go. It is awesome."
Joseph Gellis
"They call it the Great Allentown Fair for a reason. It lives up to the hype. So much to do. It's all food, fun and games with some great concerts offered throughout the week. Solid fair that should be part of your yearly fairs to attend. Great job."
Chuck Mound
"The Great Allentown Fair is a fun eclectic crowded interesting feast for the eyes, ears, and nose!!
Several free Shows to enjoy at the Fair including a crazy Stunt Man, juggler, Strong Man, Swimming Pigs; Animals and humans performing amazing feats!!
The nightly concerts are expensive to see the once big time performers who now do the fair circuit.
Sidewalks, and parking lots are never and great for tripping and ankle twisting.
Restrooms are pretty disgusting and old.
But it’s fun to see the animals, ribbon winners, rides and freaks.
Don’t forget Free Fair admission one or two days each year. Check the website for details."
B and C
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Allentown Fairgrounds is located at 302 N. 17th Street, Allentown, PA. It's accessible by car, with various parking options available, though they can fill up quickly during major events like the Great Allentown Fair. Public transportation routes also serve the area.
Yes, parking is available at the Allentown Fairgrounds, but it can be limited and busy during large events. Arriving early or considering alternative transportation is advised.
From Harrisburg, it's about an hour's drive. From New York City, it's approximately two hours. Consider carpooling or checking local transit options for convenience.
While specific park and ride details vary annually, it's worth checking the official Great Allentown Fair website closer to the event for any announced shuttle services or designated parking areas outside the immediate fairgrounds.
Yes, ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are a convenient option for getting to and from the Allentown Fairgrounds, especially during busy event times when parking might be scarce.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Admission prices for the Great Allentown Fair can vary, but it's generally considered affordable. Past reviews mention an entry fee around $10, and it's worth checking the official website for current pricing and any potential discounts or free admission days.
Tickets for the Great Allentown Fair can typically be purchased at the gate on the day of your visit. For specific concerts or premium events, advance online purchase is often recommended to secure your spot.
Yes, the Great Allentown Fair often has one or two days with free admission. It's crucial to check the official fair schedule for these dates to take advantage of this offer.
Yes, concerts at the Allentown Fairgrounds, especially those featuring well-known artists, usually require separate tickets in addition to fair admission. Booking these in advance is highly recommended due to demand.
The Allentown Farmers Market at the Fairgrounds is typically open on Thursdays, Fridays, and Saturdays. Specific hours can vary, so it's best to check their official schedule before visiting.
🎫 🎡 Onsite Experience
You can expect a wide variety of fair food, from classic favorites like corn dogs and funnel cakes to more unique offerings. The Fairgrounds Hotel is also known for its seafood, including lobster flights.
Absolutely! The Great Allentown Fair features a collection of rides suitable for all ages, from gentle options for young children to thrilling rides for older kids and adults.
Restroom facilities can be basic and may experience heavy use during peak times. While efforts are made to keep them clean, some visitors have noted they can be old and less than ideal.
Yes, the Great Allentown Fair often features several free shows and entertainment acts, including stunt performers, jugglers, and animal demonstrations.
The Allentown Fairgrounds hosts a diverse range of events throughout the year, including farmers markets, concerts, trade shows, and special markets like the Lehigh Valley Wicked Oddities Market.
📸 📸 Photography
Capture the vibrant atmosphere of the Great Allentown Fair with photos of the rides lit up at night, colorful food stalls, and the bustling crowds. The farmers market offers great shots of fresh produce and local crafts.
Generally, personal photography is allowed at concerts, but professional cameras and video recording equipment may be restricted. Always check the specific event's policy beforehand.
The Fairgrounds Hotel offers unique photo ops with its quirky feline-inspired artwork and, of course, the visually appealing lobster tail flights.
Look out for the agricultural exhibits showcasing prize-winning animals and produce, as well as the creative displays from local artisans. These often make for interesting and colorful photographs.
Golden hour, just before sunset, offers beautiful lighting for outdoor shots. For a more dynamic feel, consider visiting at night when the fairgrounds are illuminated by lights and rides.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
💰 Budget Travelers
🍽️ Foodies & Culinary Explorers
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Great Allentown Fair: A Tradition
Beyond the traditional fair elements, the Allentown Fairgrounds also serves as a venue for significant concerts and live performances. The Grandstand area hosts national touring artists, drawing music fans from across the region. While tickets for these headliners can be a significant expense, the atmosphere is often described as electric, with a smaller venue size ensuring good views from most seats. The fairgrounds also host various other events throughout the year, including popular farmers markets and specialized markets, making it a dynamic hub for community activity.
When planning your visit, remember that the fair can get quite crowded, especially on weekends and during popular events. Wearing comfortable shoes is essential due to the extensive walking involved, and the terrain can sometimes be uneven. While the fair offers an abundance of food options, from classic fair fare to more unique culinary experiences, budgeting for these expenses is wise. Overall, the Great Allentown Fair provides a robust and engaging experience that has cemented its place as a beloved annual tradition.
Culinary Delights at the Allentown Fairgrounds
Beyond the hotel, the Allentown Farmers Market, operating on Thursdays, Fridays, and Saturdays, is a treasure trove for food lovers. Here, visitors can find an abundance of fresh produce, homemade baked goods, deli items, and other local delicacies. It's an excellent place to sample regional flavors and support local vendors. During the Great Allentown Fair itself, expect all the classic fair food favorites, from sweet treats like funnel cakes and cotton candy to savory options like corn dogs and fried dough. The variety ensures there's something to satisfy every craving throughout your visit.
Events and Markets Beyond the Annual Fair
In addition to the market, the fairgrounds are a popular spot for concerts and live music. The Grandstand has hosted numerous artists, attracting significant crowds for music events. Beyond music, the venue also hosts specialized markets and expos. For instance, the Lehigh Valley Wicked Oddities Market brings together vendors selling unique and unusual items, attracting a niche but enthusiastic audience. Other events can include food truck rallies, car shows, and even large-scale attractions like Jurassic Quest, a dinosaur-themed event that has drawn families to the fairgrounds. The Allentown Agriplex and Agricultural Hall are also key facilities within the fairgrounds, often used for exhibitions, trade shows, and community gatherings, showcasing the venue's adaptability for diverse event types.



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