One of Northern Virginia’s biggest summer traditions is returning next week, bringing five days of carnival fun just minutes from Washington, D.C.
The 2026 Arlington County Fair runs August 12th through August 16th, offering free admission and a packed lineup of rides, entertainment, shopping, food vendors and activities for all ages.
Billed by organizers as one of the largest free events on the East Coast, the annual fair attracts thousands of visitors looking for classic midway attractions without paying an admission fee.
Whether you’re coming for the funnel cakes, the carnival rides or the live performances, here’s everything you need to know before you go.
When and where is the Arlington County Fair taking place?
The 2026 Arlington County Fair will take place Wednesday, August 12th through Sunday, August 16th at the Thomas Jefferson Community Center, located at 3501 2nd St. S in Arlington, Virginia.
Outdoor fair hours begin at 5 pm on Wednesday and Thursday, 2 pm on Friday, 10 am on Saturday and 11 am on Sunday.
Indoor exhibits open beginning Friday, while sensory-friendly hours are scheduled for Saturday from 10 am-1 pm and Sunday from 11 am-1 pm.
Because parking around the fairgrounds is limited, organizers encourage visitors to take advantage of the free shuttle service operating between the Ballston Mall Parking Garage and the fairgrounds, or to arrive via Metro, rideshare, bicycle or on foot.
Public parking at the fair itself is reserved primarily for guests with valid ADA parking permits.
What to expect at the Arlington County Fair
Visitors can expect the classic county fair experience, with carnival rides, midway games, live entertainment, shopping vendors and plenty of iconic fair food spread throughout the fairgrounds.
Entertainment includes performances from local and regional artists inside the Entertainment Tent, while families with younger children can enjoy the Kids Court, interactive activities, obstacle courses and fitness programming—all included with admission.
Food is always one of the biggest draws, with vendors serving everything from funnel cakes and fried Oreos to gyros, barbecue, lemonade, smoothies, corn dogs and international cuisine.
Shopping booths and community exhibitors also provide plenty to browse between rides.
The fair also features a Sensory Tent and designated sensory-friendly hours to help create a more welcoming experience for guests who prefer a quieter environment.
Is the Arlington County Fair free? How much are ride tickets?
Yes, admission to the Arlington County Fair is completely free, making it one of the region’s best-value summer events.
Visitors can enjoy live entertainment, exhibits and many family activities without purchasing an admission ticket.
Carnival rides, however, require separate ride credits.
This year, the fair is using a new digital ticketing system, allowing riders to use either a reusable ride card or a QR code through the FunTagg app.
Ride credits are priced as follows:
- 24 credits: $20
- 48 credits: $40
- 72 credits: $60
- 96 credits: $80
- 125 credits: $100
Each ride requires between 4 and 8 credits, and there is a one-time $2 activation fee for each ride card purchased.
Visitors can buy ride cards at ticket booths inside the fairgrounds or preload credits through the FunTagg mobile app before arriving.
Guests who purchase presale ride tickets before August 12th at 5 pm can also save on select ticket packages.
