Harrington, Delaware is the home of one of the biggest events to be held in Delaware during the summer. The Delaware State Fair draws folks from all around the Delmarva Peninsula for an annual trip of fun and entertainment. The annual fair begins on July 19th and runs through July 28th 2018
The fair began with a meeting of men in 1919 who were interested in starting an event for “promoting and encouraging agriculture”. It was incorporated as the Kent/Sussex Fair in January 1920. After 30 acres were purchased a month later it was all go for the first fair that opened on July 27, 1920.
The fair has grown over its nearly 100 year history to include New Castle County becoming the Delaware State Fair in 1962.
One highlight of the fair is their concerts with a a number of famous acts performing each year. One of this year’s shows is Southern Uprising with Travis Tritt, Charlie Daniels, The Marshall Tucker Band and The Outlaws performing live Wednesday, July 25th, 2018. (Click HERE for more Information on this Concert)
It may seem as if the Delaware State Fair, which expects to see 300,000 attendees, is a place for entertainment. The fairgrounds includes a large carnival area as well as the Harrington Raceway and Casino for adult entertainment. But its roots were in agriculture and those roots are still there with the Delaware 4-H showcasing their accomplishments.
The City of Harrington was named for Samuel M. Harrington, President of the Delaware Railroad in 1859, although the town was a settlement as early as 1730. The Clark family had established an inn, tavern and a store in the area and was known as Clark’s Corner. Even though it a hub of activity, it wasn’t until the arrival of the railroad that the town grew and became a key hub of the area as a transportation hub.