Arkansas’s Oldest County Fair Returns to Fayetteville for Five Days of Fun

The Washington County Fair has been a Fayetteville fixture since 1857, back when Arkansas was still finding its footing. Nearly 170 years later, it draws 4-H competitors, local families, food truck lines, and everyone in between to the Washington County Fairgrounds every August.

THE DEETS

📅 Tuesday, August 25, 2026– Saturday, August 29, 2026
🕑 10:00 AM – 10:00 PM daily
📍 Washington County Fairgrounds, 2537 North McConnell Avenue, Fayetteville, AR 72704
🎟️ $5 cash / $7.50 card at the gate | Kids 5 & under free
🔗 More info

Roots Run Deep Here

The Washington County Fair runs on agriculture and youth development. Every year, 4-H and FFA members compete in livestock, horticulture, home economics, and the arts, with years of work on the line for judges and neighbors to see. Five days gives you plenty of time to cover the competition floors and still make it through the exhibits.

Gates Open, Coolers Running

Air-conditioned buildings for the Home Economics, Vendor, and Horticulture exhibits are a welcome break when the August heat gets serious. Food trucks and stands are set up throughout, and Family Reunion spots and safety armbands are available for younger kids. Parking is free. Plan for security checkpoints and metal detectors at entry.

The fairgrounds open August 25th, and the Washington County Fair runs through the 29th. Stop by any day between 10 AM and 10 PM and see why this one has stuck around for nearly 170 years.