The Durham Fair logo

General Information


Operating Hours

Durham Fair Hours of Operation
DayFair Hours
Thursday:4 PM–10 PM
Friday:9 AM–10 PM
Saturday:9 AM–10 PM
Sunday:9 AM–6 PM

ATMs

There are several ATMs located on the fairgrounds. Due to the large volume of use during the fair, funds in the ATMs can occasionally be diminished.


Fair Map

The 2026 Durham Fair Map (PDF) and 2026 Daily Schedule are great tools to help you plan your visit to the Durham Fair.


First Aid

The first aid station is located on the fairgrounds at the area usually used for the Main Stage (above the roller coaster) and is staffed during the hours of the fair by medical personnel.


Hotels with Fair Discounts

Fairfield by Marriott Inn & Suites Wallingford-New Haven is offering exclusive discounted rates for fair guests, vendors, employees, and attendees. Their hotel offers comfortable accommodations, complimentary hot breakfast, free Wi-Fi, free parking, and a convenient location just a short drive from the fairgrounds.

We recommend reserving early, as rooms may fill quickly during fair weekend. For questions regarding accommodations, room blocks, or booking assistance, please contact General Manager Gianna Bacchiocchi at [email protected].


Information Booths

Information booths are positioned around the fairgrounds and are staffed with experienced volunteers ready to make sure your fair is an enjoyable time. Just look for the booths prominently painted white with black spots to look like cows.


Lost and Found Items

All lost and found items should be reported to the Fair Office at 24 Town House Road (860-349-9495).


Lost Children

When attending large events, parents & guardians are encouraged to take a photo of their children before entering in case they get lost or separated.

Name tags for small children are available at each Information Booth. Parents and guardians are strongly urged to make use of the name tags. They make it much easier for fair staff members to reunite lost children with their parents or guardians.

Parents and guardians should instruct their children where to wait if they become lost and to write that location on the name tag. Lost children who have not been given instructions will be taken to the State Police Command Post at the Durham Town Hall.


Safety

No alcoholic beverages, outside beverages or weapons are permitted on the fairgrounds or in the parking areas. Please be advised that items such as coolers, backpacks, pocketbooks and large packages will be searched before entering the fairgrounds.


Pets

Because of our concern for the safety of the animals on exhibit and for the comfort and safety of our patrons, no pets are allowed on the fairgrounds with the ONLY exception being service animals trained to provide assistance to an individual with a disability.


School Field Trips

Let the Durham Fair School Field Trip Coordinator help you plan a successful field trip. The Fair has so many curriculum connections to offer, including community studies, agriculture, and early American history. We can help with tickets, arrival, departure, special bus parking, and much more! Send an email to Carol Schilling ([email protected]) or call 860-316-7600 to get started!


Shuttle Service

We offer a free courtesy shuttle service around the fairgrounds during operating hours (weather/grounds conditions permitting). Please review our map for designated shuttle locations.


Strollers and Wheelchairs

Strollers and wheelchairs are not available for rental. Please make any necessary arrangements for these items before arriving at the Fair.


Booth Rule

No product, service, philosophy or organization can be sold, advertised or in any other way promoted on the fairgrounds during the Fair except from within space contracted for with the appropriate superintendent. Acceptance of any donation by the Association does not entitle the donor to be exempt from this rule. The Association’s Executive Committee is authorized to determine the appropriate public acknowledgment of any donation accepted.

Carnival game booth with stuffed prizes and a Ferris wheel
Man operating vintage farm equipment
Vintage farm tools and milk bottles displayed at an exhibit
Three women selling donuts at a food stand
Llama eating hay