Sponsored by the Saratoga County Fair
The 177th Saratoga County Fair in Ballston Spa will run from Tuesday, July 24 – Sunday, July 29, and this year, the fair’s organizers have an exceptional lineup of events planned. From traditional favorites like the action-packed demolition derby to new contests, bands, and more, there will be plenty of entertainment for all ages. Make your plans for these 7 fair events that are not to be missed!
Witness Cars Collide at the Demolition Derby
On Thursday (7:30pm-10:00pm) and Sunday (7:00pm-10:00pm), JM Productions, Inc. will present their thrilling demolition derby at the Grandstand. This motorsport has become a modern tradition at county fairs and festivals, and JM Productions, Inc. is a premier automotive events producer here in the Northeastern United States.
Although rules may vary by event, demolition derbies typically feature drivers ramming their vehicles into one another in order to be the “last one standing.” Stop by the dirt track and root for the drivers as they put on a show you will never forget!
Cheer On the Competing Trucks & Tractors
Another exciting motorsport at the fair will be the tractor and truck pulls hosted by the New York Tractor Pulls Association. Join them at the Grandstand on Friday at 7:30pm and see the Super Stock Tractors and 2-Wheel Drive Trucks in action.
At these competitions, powerful tractors and trucks will be used to pull a weighted metal sled along a designated course. Hear the roar of the engine as these vehicles are pushed to their limits during the spectacle.
Catch the Return of Rosaire’s Royal Racers
After a two year absence from the Saratoga County Fair, the popular pigs from Rosaire’s Royal Racers are back! Rosaire’s is a family-owned and operated company that brings their delightful pig racing shows to audiences across the country.
Each 20-30 minute show features three different breeds of pigs that will run around the 180 foot aluminum-fence track. Before the races begin, cheerleaders (Pig Rooters) are chosen from the audience to represent each pig. If their pig wins, then they receive free prizes.
Rosaire’s Royal Racers will present their shows daily at the Saratoga County Fairgrounds’ Infield West. Come watch the speedy swine at 12:00pm, 3:00pm, 4:30pm, and 5:30pm.
Attend Incredible Horse Shows & Events
Horses are a key part of the City of Saratoga Springs, which is why the Saratoga Country Fair includes a whole week of horse shows, demonstrations, and competitions at The Adirondack Trust Equine Center.
Sponsored by The Adirondack Trust Company and Curtis Lumber, the series of equine events will leave audiences in awe at these magnificent animals. You’ll have a chance to see these gentle giants steal the spotlight at the County Draft Horse Show, the 4-H English Saddle Horse Show, the Open Draft Horse Show, and many more.
View the schedule of horse show events >>
On Your Mark, Get Set, Go! Take on These Eating Contests
Have you ever been told that your stomach is a bottomless pit? Do you love eating pie, donuts, or perhaps pizza? If so, then get ready for the three epic eating contests at the fair! Each contest will take place right by the Grandstand Meadow Stage.
The first event, the All American Donut Eating Contest, will be held on Tuesday and Thursday at 1:00pm. The age group categories are Ages 5-10, 11-15, and 16 & older. Satisfy your sweet tooth and then some by signing up for this competition; the donuts are provided by Stewart’s Shops.
On Friday and Saturday at 1:00pm, contestants will try to eat as many pies as they can during the Pie Eating Contest. The age group categories are Ages 5-10, 11-15, and 16 & older.
Finally, one of the new events this year is the Pizza Eating Contest. Contestants must be 16 years or older to enter, and it will be held at 1:00pm and 4:00pm on Sunday.
Discover a World of Talent at the Fair
Who is the most talented of them all? Head to the Saratoga’s Got Talent Show and find out! This year’s competition will be held at the Trustco Talent Building from Wednesday through Sunday (Pageant Show is at the building on Tuesday). Contestants will show off their unique talent to the judges, ranging from singing to dancing, storytelling, gymnastics, magic, comedy, and more.
The two age group categories for the Talent Show are Ages 12 & Under and Ages 13 & Over. Prizes will be awarded throughout the week, and the winners on Friday and Saturday will qualify to advance to the NY State Fair Competition!
Rock Out at the Live Music Pavilion
No trip to the Saratoga County Fair is complete without listening to live music from the variety of featured bands and musicians. The main performance stage will be the Fairgrounds’ Live Music Pavilion, and free concerts (with general fair admission) will be held during the day and night.
Afternoon Schedule:
- Tuesday – Friday (12:00pm-5:00pm) – Rick Bolton & Friends
- Saturday (1:00pm-5:00pm) and Sunday (1:00pm-4:00pm) – The Spurs
Night Schedule:
Note: Audience members must be 21 or older with I.D. to enter the pavilion area after 7:00pm
- Tuesday (7:00pm-11:00pm) – Motion Blur
- Wednesday (7:00pm-11:00pm) – Grit N Grace
- Thursday (7:00pm-11:00pm) – The Kyle Bourgault Band
- Friday (7:30pm-11:30pm) – Skeeter Creek
- Saturday (7:30pm-11:30pm) – MADDHAUS
- Sunday (5:00pm-9:00pm – Floodwood
