If you’re looking for something fun to do in D.C. this Labor Day weekend, the D.C. State Fair is returning this Sunday, September 6th for a full day celebrating the District’s local talent.
The annual event brings together the city’s agricultural, culinary and artistic communities for a uniquely D.C. take on the traditional state fair.
Now in its 17th year, the D.C. State Fair will feature contests, local vendors, live entertainment, demonstrations and educational workshops.
Best of all, the fair remains free to attend, making it an easy option for a budget-friendly weekend outing.
When and where is the D.C. State Fair taking place?
The 2026 D.C. State Fair will take place on Sunday, September 6, from 11 am to 6 pm at Anthem Row, located at 800 K St NW in Downtown D.C.
The fair is being presented in partnership with the DowntownDC BID.
The location marks another change of venue for the annual celebration.
The D.C. State Fair has moved around the District over the years, including stops at Franklin Park, Bryant Street NE, and Gateway DC at St. Elizabeth’s East.
This year’s event will transform Anthem Row into a celebration of the District’s agricultural, culinary, and artistic talents, with activities taking place throughout the six-hour event.
Mark your calendar:
- Date: Sunday, September 6, 2026
- Time: 11 am-6 pm
- Location: Anthem Row
- Address: 800 K St NW, Washington, D.C.
What to expect if you’re thinking about going
The D.C. State Fair offers a distinctly local spin on the traditional state fair, with plenty of opportunities to see what District residents can grow, cook and create.
The fair’s programming includes live music, demonstrations and educational workshops, giving visitors more to do than simply browse vendor booths.
The event also features contests for both kids and adults showcasing the District’s agricultural, artistic and culinary talents.
Local vendors will also be part of the 2026 fair, giving visitors an opportunity to discover businesses and organizations from around the D.C. area.
The event is also a celebration of all things homegrown, continuing a tradition that dates back to 2010, when the first D.C. State Fair was held.
The organization itself is a volunteer-run nonprofit, and the fair has remained focused on celebrating the talents and creativity of people in the District.
If you’re planning to attend, expect a family-friendly mix of food, art, agriculture, entertainment and community activities rather than a traditional amusement-park-style state fair.
Is it free to attend?
Yes, the D.C. State Fair is free to attend.
The organization describes the annual event as a free showcase of the District’s agricultural, culinary and artistic talents.
That makes the September 6 event an especially appealing option for anyone looking for a free thing to do in Washington, D.C. this weekend.
While admission to the fair itself is free, visitors should still expect that individual vendors, food and merchandise may cost extra. The fair relies on vendors, sponsors and charitable donations to help keep the event free for the public.
So if you’re looking for a low-cost way to spend part of your Sunday, the D.C. State Fair is an easy one to add to your weekend plans — especially if you want to experience a local event that celebrates what makes the District unique.
