The Arlington County Fair returns August 12–16, 2026, for its 50th year. The free-admission Northern Virginia tradition takes over the Thomas Jefferson Community Center with carnival rides, midway games, local performances, shopping, fair food and family activities.
The fair describes itself as one of the largest free events on the East Coast. “Free” covers admission and many activities, not rides, games, food or parking. The Arlington County Fair 2026 dates and hours also change by day, and indoor areas do not open until Friday.
Arlington County Fair 2026: Quick facts
Arlington County Fair 2026 dates and daily hours
Indoor and outdoor areas follow different schedules. The fair lists these 2026 operating hours, subject to change:
Outdoor and indoor fair hours
Wednesday, August 12: outdoor 5–10:30 p.m.; no indoor hours.
Thursday, August 13: outdoor 5–10:30 p.m.; no indoor hours.
Friday, August 14: outdoor 2–10:30 p.m.; indoor 4–10 p.m.
Saturday, August 15: outdoor 10 a.m.–10:30 p.m.; indoor 11 a.m.–9 p.m.
Sunday, August 16: outdoor 11 a.m.–10 p.m.; indoor 11 a.m.–7 p.m.
What to do at the 50th Arlington County Fair
Carnival rides and midway games
Cole Shows returns with rides, games and digital ride credits. Exact ride operation can depend on weather and mechanical conditions.
Free local entertainment
The Entertainment Tent features local and regional performers. The fair had not posted its complete 2026 lineup as of July 21.
Kids Court and contests
Free family programming can include interactive games, obstacle courses and creative activities. Eating contests are scheduled during the weekend.
Food, shopping and Night Market
Visitors can shop local vendors indoors, buy classic fair food and explore the Night Market on Thursday, August 13 from 5–10 p.m.
How much are rides at the Arlington County Fair?
Fair admission is free, but carnival rides require digital credits. The 2026 pricing lists 1 credit for $1, with bundles ranging from 24 credits for $20 to 125 credits for $100. Most rides use 4–8 credits.
A one-time $2 activation fee applies to each physical ride card. Visitors can load credits on a card at the fair or use the FunTagg app and a QR code. Presale discounts are scheduled to end August 12 at 5 p.m.; check the official rides page before purchasing.
Sensory-friendly hours at the Arlington County Fair
The fair schedules reduced-sensory periods on Saturday, August 15 from 10 a.m.–1 p.m. and Sunday, August 16 from 11 a.m.–1 p.m. A dedicated Sensory Tent also provides a quieter break from music, rides and crowds, with volunteers available to help.
Arlington County Fair parking, shuttle and Metro
There is no public on-site parking at the fairgrounds. The fair provides a free ART bus shuttle from the Ballston Quarter parking garage at 627 North Glebe Road. The pickup point is near North Randolph Street and North Glebe Road, about two and a half blocks from Ballston–MU Metro on the Orange and Silver lines.
Shuttle service is scheduled from 30 minutes before the fair opens until 30 minutes after it closes, running continuously between the garage and the fairgrounds. Biking, walking and local bus service are also encouraged. Check the official transportation page before leaving because stops and hours can change.
Who gets the most out of the Arlington County Fair?
Families have the widest choice of free activities. For an evening visit, the Night Market, food stands and midway are all in the same area. Weekend nights draw the largest crowds; early daytime hours are easier with younger children or anyone who wants less noise.
Find more things to do in Northern Virginia on the DC Spot blog.
DC Spot tips before you go
Frequently asked questions about the Arlington County Fair 2026
When is the Arlington County Fair 2026?
The 50th Arlington County Fair runs Wednesday, August 12 through Sunday, August 16, 2026.
Where is the Arlington County Fair?
The fair is at Thomas Jefferson Community Center, 3501 2nd Street South, Arlington, Virginia 22204.
Is admission to the Arlington County Fair free?
Yes. General admission and many activities are free. Carnival rides, midway games, food, drinks and some purchases cost extra.
What time does the fair open?
Opening times vary by day. Outdoor hours begin at 5 p.m. Wednesday and Thursday, 2 p.m. Friday, 10 a.m. Saturday and 11 a.m. Sunday.
How much do carnival rides cost?
Ride credits cost $1 each, with discounted bundles available. Most rides use 4–8 credits, and a physical ride card carries a one-time $2 activation fee.
Can you park at the Arlington County Fair?
There is no public on-site parking. Visitors can park at the Ballston Quarter garage and use the fair’s free shuttle.
Is the fair near Metro?
The shuttle pickup is about two and a half blocks from Ballston–MU Metro on the Orange and Silver lines.
When are sensory-friendly hours?
Sensory-friendly hours are Saturday, August 15 from 10 a.m.–1 p.m. and Sunday, August 16 from 11 a.m.–1 p.m.
Will there be food at the fair?
Yes. Food and drink vendors are part of the fair, although the complete 2026 vendor list had not been posted as of July 21.
When is the Arlington County Fair Night Market?
The 2026 Night Market is scheduled for Thursday, August 13 from 5–10 p.m.
Is the Arlington County Fair good for children?
Yes. The fair includes rides, free Kids Court activities, contests, a Sensory Tent and sensory-friendly weekend hours.
What happens if it rains?
Outdoor rides and programming may change because of weather. Check the official fair site and social channels for same-day updates.
Feature image courtesy Arlington County Fair.
Last updated July 21, 2026. Details were verified through the Arlington County Fair, Arlington Convention and Visitors Service and Arlington County. Hours, performers, vendors and ride availability can change.
