Who We Are
The Arlington County Fair is one of the largest free events on the East Coast and has been providing quality entertainment for nearly 50 years. In recent years, attendance has reached over 150,000 as people come from Arlington, Northern Virginia, and the DC Metro region to enjoy competitive exhibits, midway rides and games, entertainment, vendors, and more. Each year Thomas Jefferson Community Center is transformed into a special place with something for everyone to see. Admission is free, there is a cost for some activities.
Mission
The Arlington County Fair, a joint endeavor between Arlington County Government and the non-profit, volunteer-driven Arlington County Fair Board, is dedicated to enriching our diverse community. The Fair offers a variety of educational experiences, entertaining activities, and showcases the best of Arlington.
Vision
The Arlington County Fair is the premier community-wide event, offering a diverse range of paid and free programming, including educational exhibits, engaging entertainment, and interactive activities, ensuring there’s something for people of all ages to enjoy.
History of the Fair
Just minutes from the nation’s Capitol and the White House, the Arlington County Fair is an “urban fair” focused on educating, entertaining, and showcasing the best of Arlington.
The Arlington County Fair was incorporated in 1976 with the very first fair taking place the following summer in 1977. The first Arlington County Fair came about from the Arlington Community Garden Program and 4-H, whose members wanted a way to show what they were growing and making. That first Fair had no midway and no rides, but was focused on exhibits, competitions, educational displays and games for kids.
Arlington County Fair is the premier community-wide event that provides a range of educational and entertaining activities for people of all ages. Admission is free; specific programming including rides, games and other activities are fee-based.
Meet our Executive Team
Matt Richard
Chair
Tara Spuhler McCabe
Secretary
Matt Cochrane
Vice Chair
Jordan Slemp English
Treasurer
Samantha Armstrong
Parliamentarian
Interested In Joining The Board?
This type of volunteer is an individual who supports Fair planning throughout the year and the implementation of activities during the week of the Fair. This volunteer position carries the highest level of responsibility and requires regular attendance at monthly board meetings, as well as participation in board committees.
We are accepting applications NOW and will review and set up interviews on an ongoing basis through the spring of next year.
Going Green: Zero Waste at the Arlington County Fair
The Arlington County Fair is working toward the goal of becoming a zero waste event!
Learn more by going to our FAQ’s page.