Vermont State Fair facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Vermont State Fair |
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The sign in front of the Vermont State Fair
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| Genre | Fun/entertainment |
| Location(s) | Vermont State Fairgrounds, Rutland, Vermont |
| Years active | 1846–1916; 1919–41; 1946–2019; 2021– |
| Website | www.vermontstatefair.net |
The Vermont State Fair is a super fun yearly event! It happens in Rutland, Vermont, at the Vermont State Fairgrounds. For a long time, it took place in early September. In 2016, the fair moved to mid-August, making it a great summer activity. It usually lasts for about 5 to 10 days, filled with exciting things to see and do!
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History of the Fair
The Vermont State Fair is an old and important event. It is managed by a group called The Rutland County Agricultural Society. This group helps make sure the fair celebrates farming and local products.
The very first fair happened way back in 1846. This makes it one of the oldest state fairs in the whole United States! It was first called the Rutland State Fair. Back then, it was just a one-day event. The first fair was held in a field near a town called Castleton.
The fair quickly became very popular. By 1849, the Rutland Railroad even added extra train cars. This helped people from all over Vermont and Western New York come to visit. For a few years, the fair moved around Rutland County. It slowly got closer to Rutland City.
In 1856, the fair found its permanent home. This land is at 175 South Main Street in Rutland, Vermont. It was first known as the Rutland County Park. In 1972, the fair was officially renamed the "Vermont State Fair." It is still held at this same spot today!
There were a few times when the fair did not happen. This was during big world events. It was closed from 1917–1918 because of World War I. It also closed from 1942–1945 due to World War II. In 2020, the fair was canceled because of the COVID-19 pandemic.
Fun Rides at the Midway
The Midway is where all the exciting rides and games are! It's a favorite spot for many fair visitors. Currently, the rides are provided by a company called Amusements of America.
Over the years, many different companies have brought their rides to the fair. Some of these included Family Fun Amusements!, Coleman Brothers Shows, and World of Mirth Shows. Each year, the Midway brings new thrills and classic favorites for everyone to enjoy.
Delicious Fair Food
The Vermont State Fair is also famous for its amazing food! There are many tasty options to try.
Roxie's Famous French Fries
Roxie's Famous French Fries, often called Roxie's, is a special restaurant right inside the fairgrounds. It's super popular for its crispy french fries. They also serve delicious foot-long hotdogs. Roxie's is a favorite place for fairgoers to grab a bite. It even stays open during the warmer months, even when the fair isn't happening!
MSJ Green Wave Cafe
The MSJ Green Wave Cafe is another local food stand at the fair. It is run by volunteers and former students from Mount Saint Joseph (MSJ) Academy in Rutland, Vermont. This booth sells yummy foods like hamburgers and sausages. They also offer many different kinds of soda.
Other Tasty Treats
You can find lots of other delicious foods at the fair too! Popular choices include pizza, Italian sausages, fried dough, and corn dogs. For something sweet, you can get candy apples, cotton candy, and popcorn. There's something for every taste bud!
Images for kids
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An event at the Rutland Fair in 1941.
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A barker at the Rutland Fair.
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A showing of "Freak Show" at the fair in 1941.
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A photographer selling portrait photos in 1937.
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Coleman Brothers Shows Ferris Wheel at the Vermont State Fair.
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Thunderbolt at the Vermont State Fair.
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YoYo and Super Loop at the Vermont State Fair.
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Vermont State Fair Sign.
