HAMBURG, NEW YORK – Applications are now open for Fair Camp at the Erie County Fair, a unique, no-cost, overnight agricultural experience for youth this August. Fair Camp offers a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity for children to spend a couple of nights at the Erie County Fair while learning about agriculture, food systems, and Fair life from behind-the-scenes. This free two-and-a-half-day program is designed for children 8-10 and one accompanying parent or guardian. This award-winning Fair Camp program aims to spark curiosity in agriculture, encourage hands-on learning and foster a lifelong connection to the Erie County Fair.
Fair Camp will host two sessions during both weekends of the Fair, taking place August 14-16 and August 21-23, 2026. Campers and one parent or guardian will stay on the Fairgrounds from Friday evening through Sunday afternoon, sleeping in the “hay loft” bunk rooms above the Agriculture Discovery Center. Under the guidance of Fair professionals, participants will gain firsthand experience caring for and showing livestock, shadowing food concessionaires and exploring the Fair through exclusive behind-the-scenes experiences.
Past participants consistently describe Fair Camp as a meaningful and memorable experience, with many campers returning to the Fair to show animals or becoming involved in their local 4-H programs. The Erie County Agricultural Society, producers of the Erie County Fair, fully funds the program, including Fair admission, lodging, meals and entertainment, ensuring a no-cost opportunity for families.
Families interested in applying for Fair Camp must submit an application online and drop off required materials by April 17, 2026. Participation is limited to six children and parent/guardian pairs per session, and applicants are encouraged to share their interest and enthusiasm for agriculture and the Fair in their application. No prior livestock experience is required. A full program overview is available at ecfair.org/faircamp. Questions may be directed to the Fair’s Agriculture Education Coordinator at (716)649-3900 ext. 6413 or by emailing [email protected].
ABOUT THE ERIE COUNTY AGRICULTURAL SOCIETY
The Erie County Agricultural Society is a private, not-for-profit membership organization established in 1819. It is recognized as the oldest civic institution in Western New York. The Society’s mission is to connect communities through agriculture, education, and entertainment.
The Society produces the Erie County Fair, an annual 12-day event held in Hamburg, New York, that celebrates the region’s agricultural roots while offering engaging educational experiences and family-friendly entertainment. The 186th Erie County Fair will be held August 12-23, 2026. Learn more at ECFair.org.