The Fourth of July weekend is almost here, but Marion County already has another summer celebration waiting one week later.
The Marion County Fair returns to the Oregon State Fairgrounds in Salem from Thursday, July 9, through Sunday, July 12, bringing four days of rides, food, live music, youth agriculture, contests and family activities.
The fair is built as more than a quick carnival stop. Each day has its own theme, giving families, music fans, agriculture supporters and kids a different reason to come back more than once.
“We’ve built each day with its own personality,” Event Coordinator Jill Ingalls said. “Whether you’re looking for an affordable family outing, a fun night with friends, an authentic agricultural experience, or a day making memories with your kids, there’s a reason to come back again and again. The Marion County Fair is where our county comes together.”
Thursday opens the fair with Honor Day and $3 Thursday, one of the most affordable admission days of the week. The day recognizes volunteers, active-duty military members, veterans, first responders and their families, while also giving visitors their first chance to walk through exhibits, visit the livestock barns, grab fair food and hit the carnival.
More than 400 4-H and FFA youth are expected to participate, bringing animals, projects and months of preparation into the public eye. Their work will be part of the fair all week, but it takes on added weight Saturday during Ag Day.
Friday shifts into fair-night mode. Unlimited carnival ride wristbands are available Friday only on-site, and the evening lineup leans into food, music and a longer night out. The Main Stage will feature The Junebugs, DJ Avelanche and Radio Ready, with more music and dancing afterward in The Woods.
Saturday brings Marion County’s agricultural roots to the center of the fair. Visitors can walk through livestock barns, meet young exhibitors and watch the Marion County Junior Livestock Auction, where students’ work raising animals is supported by buyers and community members.
Saturday night also brings one of the fair’s biggest music draws. Rising country artist Justin Lawrence is scheduled to perform before nationally recognized country favorite Casey Donahew closes out the Main Stage. Lawrence is also set for a post-show performance in The Woods.
Sunday wraps the fair with Family Day. Children 12 and under receive free admission, making it one of the strongest days for families with younger kids. The day includes interactive activities, cultural performances, magic, LEGO competitions, youth exhibits, animals, mascots, princess appearances and other surprises across the fairgrounds.
New this year, the AC Gilbert House will also host a special pop-up exhibit Sunday with hands-on activities for children and families.
Across all four days, visitors can expect carnival rides and games, fair food, live entertainment, commercial vendors, 4-H and FFA competitions, agricultural displays, a petting zoo, pony rides, an interactive circus, giant water tables, Puzzlemania, cornhole and Flyball dogs.
The fair will be held at the Oregon State Fairgrounds, 2330 17th St. NE in Salem. Hours are noon to 10 p.m. Thursday, 10 a.m. to 11 p.m. Friday and Saturday, and 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Sunday.
Admission specials include $3 Thursday, free Thursday admission for seniors, active-duty military, veterans, first responders and their families, and free Sunday admission for children 12 and under. Children 5 and under are free throughout the fair.
For tickets, the full schedule and official fair information, visit MarionCountyFair.FUN.