Rowan County Fair: A County Tradition Since 1951

For generations, the arrival of fall in Rowan County has meant bright midway lights, agricultural exhibits, carnival rides and the familiar flavors of fair food.

In 2026, the Rowan County Fair celebrates 75 years since local Jaycees began working to establish a permanent place where Rowan County’s agricultural community could showcase its work. What started with a commitment to agriculture and education has grown into one of the county’s longest-running community traditions.

This year, the fair returns to the Rowan County Fairgrounds from September 21–26 for six days of rides, food, exhibits and family fun.

2026 Rowan County Fair Details

• Monday, September 21–Saturday, September 26, 2026
• Monday–Friday: Gates open at 5 p.m.
• Saturday: Gates open at 3 p.m.
• Rowan County Fairgrounds
• 1560 Julian Road, Salisbury, NC 28146

The fair typically closes around 10:30 p.m., depending on attendance, with later closing times possible on Friday and Saturday nights.

​Admission and Ride Armbands

• Adults: $6
• Seniors ages 65 and older: $3
• Children under 36 inches tall: Free
• Daily ride armbands: $35

Visit the official Rowan County Fair website for the latest schedules and announcements.

A Tradition Rooted in Agriculture and Education

The story of the Rowan County Fair began in 1951, when a group of local Jaycees recognized the need for a permanent facility where members of the agricultural community could exhibit their livestock, crops and other work.

The organizers also envisioned the fair as an educational experience for students in grades one through 12. Dave Clay, Henry Bernhardt and John Fisher helped lead the project alongside many other community members.

To make that vision possible, 10 Salisbury Jaycees signed a $50,000 bank note to begin developing the fairgrounds. Clay later served as the fair’s first manager from 1954–1965, helping lay the foundation for an event that would continue bringing Rowan County together for decades.

Built Through Community Support

From its earliest years, the Rowan County Fair has been a true community effort.

Local fire departments and civic organizations helped construct and support the fairgrounds, including the Locke, Liberty and Miller Ferry fire departments, the Salisbury Optimist Club and the Millbridge Ruritans. Many of these organizations operated food booths at the fair, using the proceeds to support programs and needs throughout the community.

Longtime fairgoers may even remember the chicken and dumplings once served by local volunteers—a favorite that became part of the fair’s story.

The Salisbury Jaycees established the fair association and later welcomed the Faith and Spencer Jaycees into the effort. Today, volunteers and local Jaycees continue to organize the event, with proceeds supporting community projects, scholarships and other local initiatives.

Celebrating Rowan County Agriculture

Although the Rowan County Fair has grown to include the rides, games, food and entertainment generations of families have come to love, agriculture remains at the heart of the event.

Livestock shows and agricultural exhibits provide local farmers and young people with opportunities to display their knowledge, skills and hard work. With continued support from Rowan County farmers, Jaycees and volunteers, the fair has also developed a strong reputation for its cattle shows.

These exhibits preserve the fair’s original purpose while giving visitors a closer look at the agricultural traditions that continue to shape Rowan County.

Classic Fair Fun for the Whole Family

Of course, no trip to the fair is complete without an evening on the midway. Families can enjoy carnival rides and games before grabbing their favorite fair foods and exploring the exhibits throughout the grounds.

For some, the best part is the thrill of a ride beneath the lights. For others, it is sharing a funnel cake, visiting the livestock barns or continuing a tradition they first experienced as children.

That combination of agriculture, entertainment and community is what has kept Rowan County families returning year after year.

​Support a Tradition That Gives Back

The Rowan County Fair is more than an annual fall event. It represents decades of volunteer service, local partnership and investment in the community.

By attending the fair, visitors help support the Jaycees’ community projects and scholarship programs while celebrating the farmers, young people, volunteers and organizations that make the event possible.

Make plans to experience this 75-year Rowan County tradition September 21–26, 2026. 🎡

Up Next