DC State Fair, presented in partnership with the DowntownDC Business Improvement District.

Description: The 17th Annual DC State Fair is a free, daylong celebration of Washington, D.C.’s agricultural, culinary, artistic, and community talents. Visitors can enjoy 50+ contests, 50+ local vendors, live music, food, crafts, demonstrations, educational workshops, and family activities.

The fair is divided into several areas, including the Main Stage & Plaza, Education Stage, Kids & Games Zone, Wellness Zone, Crafty Corner, food vendors, food trucks, local small businesses, and community exhibitors.

Age: 👶 👧 🧒 👦
Family-friendly — suitable for children, teens, and adults

Why families love it

• Free admission and a full day of activities

• A dedicated Kids & Games Zone with children’s entertainment and activities

• More than 50 contests, including categories related to food, art, agriculture, flowers, and creativity

• Fun live competitions, including pie eating, flower arranging, Best Outfit, chili, and mac and cheese contests

• Live music and performances throughout the day

• Hands-on educational activities such as tortilla making, gardening, learning about bees, crafts, and interactive DC trivia

• A children’s program featuring Double Dutch, children’s music, storytime, dance activities, and other family entertainment

• Lots of opportunities to explore local food, small businesses, crafts, and community organizations

⚠️ Good to know

• The fair is rain or shine.

• It runs for seven hours, so families can visit for just part of the day.

• The nearest Metro option is Gallery Place–Chinatown, using the 7th and H Street exit.

• Expect a busy downtown environment and potentially large crowds, especially around popular performances and contests.

• The fair is particularly good for families because activities are spread across different zones, so children and adults can choose what interests them most.

Best For

Families with preschoolers, elementary-age children, tweens, teens, and adults looking for a free Labor Day weekend outing with a mix of food, music, games, crafts, contests, and hands-on activities.

This is especially appealing for families who enjoy local festivals but want more variety than a typical food or music event.

Cost: Free