For more than 200 years, the Topsfield Fair has celebrated the bounty of the harvest season. The planners of the that first “cattle show,” as it was then called, probably didn’t foresee their new event would one day include high-wire acts, deep-fried Oreos, and rock concerts, but they probably would be proud to see the legacy they created. The fair runs from October 3 – 13, this year.
If you’re planning to join in this year, think ahead: Until October 2, you can buy a one-day ticket online for the discounted price of $15, plus a $3.00 convenience fee, as compared to the price of $20 for tickets bought once the fair starts. Until October 2, fairgoers can also opt for the three-day pass for $42 and a $3 convenience fee. Children under eight years old are free with an adult admission ticket. Discounted food vouchers and ride tickets are also available when purchased in advance at topsfieldfair.org. Convenience fee does not apply for tickets purchased at the ticket booth at the fairgrounds through October, 2, 2025.
There are hundreds of ways to have fun at the fair, so we’ve rounded up twelve ideas to get you started.
Giant Pumpkin Weigh-Off
Oct. 3, 5p.m.
Everyone likes to check out the astonishing size of the winning giant pumpkin each year – last year’s victor hit 2,198 pounds. But for a truly mind-blowing experience, stop in during the weigh-ins that determine the winner to see a succession of gargantuan gourds fighting for the title. And you might even get to see history being made: State and world records have been broken at the fair several times.
Horsing around
Daily
Throughout the fair, horse-lovers have plenty of chances to see their favorite four-legged creatures strutting their stuff. Events include horse-pulling contests, six-horse hitch demonstrations, and educational presentations about equine rescues.
Hot Dog Eating Contest
Oct. 4, 3 p.m.
Watch as contestants down as many 1/4-pound hot dogs (including buns) as they can in seven minutes. Can they beat last year’s record of 9 – ¼ lb. hotdogs in 7 minutes?! First-come, first-serve registration for the contest opens at 2:30 p.m. that day at the Trianon Stage.
Inspire your green thumb
Throughout
Visit the Flower Building to view displays of horticultural talent from gorgeously twisted bonsai trees to fully realized landscape gardens (with lots of floral arrangements and glorious blossoms in between). Gather ideas for your own plantings or simply soak in the beauty.
Swifty Swing racing and swimming pigs
Daily
Pick your favorite porker and cheer them on as they compete against other adorable pigs to speed around the track or paddle across the pool, all in pursuit of the ultimate prize: an Oreo cookie.
Double Figure “8” Race
October 13th, 3:30pm
Check out the Figure “8” Race with average speeds of 5 and 15 miles an hour! Get there early, as it can be standing room only! For more information and/or application to enter for the Derby: JM Motorsport Events –jmderby.com
Demolition Derby
October 13th, 7pm
The Demolition Derby brings the smash and bash of all the cars! Get there early, as it can be standing room only! For more information and/or application to enter for the Derby: JM Motorsport Events –jmderby.com
Painted Pony Championship Rodeo
Oct. 8 and 9, 3 and 7 p.m.
Visiting from New York City, this rodeo show thrills with exhibitions of bareback, saddle bronc, bull riding team roping, steer wrestling and more.
Sammy Kershaw Concert
Oct. 9, 7 p.m.
The iconic entertainer, Sammy Kershaw, will grace the Grandstand stage with his country hits “She Don’t Know She’s Beautiful,” “Queen of My Doublewide Trailer,” “I Can’t Reach Her Anymore” and more!
FlatOut Freestyle Moto-Stunt Show
Multiple shows, Oct 3rd– Oct. 5th
The first weekend is going to be packed with fun when the FlatOut Freestyle Moto-Stunt Show with Jason Rowe takes over the Grandstand area. It features the best action sports and FMX stunts with top professional athletes performing BMX, Mini bikes and freestyle stunts.
Indulge in fair food
Throughout
Fairs have a reputation for some, shall we say, creative food choices. And Topsfield is no exception. Enjoy standards like turkey legs and French fries, or sample deep-fried Oreos, varieties of mac and cheese, and unconventional egg rolls. And don’t forget to save room for fair-favorite apple crisp.
The Midway
Throughout
Explore amusement rides and games at the Fair. There are many Kiddie Rides for the youngest Fair goers, and many of these rides accommodate parents as well as their children. Next are the Family Rides that are of moderate speed and appeal to the entire family. The last category is the Thrill Rides. These are the very flashy, fast-moving, stomach turning rides. Test out your skill at the games and win fun prizes.
Fun for everyone
On October 6, the fair will have a Sensory Day to accommodate attendees who have autism, sensory processing disorders, or any other conditions that make the sights and sounds of the fairgrounds overwhelming. Vendors and Kiddie Land will have no flashing lights, music, or announcements; shows and other entertainment will lower their sounds; and public address announcements will be limited and at lower volume.
The fair also offers a Kids’ Safe Zone: a small building that allows anyone in need of an escape from the crowds to relax and catch their breath. And a sensory map is available to help visitors with sensory needs navigate the fair.
Additionally, the Topsfield Fair is offering tips for a dementia-friendly fair experience with a Dementia Friendly Map, and a dedicated nursing mother’s lounge. More information regarding accessibility can be found here.
Be sure to visit the official fair website for daily hours, ticket information, and to plan your visit.