2026 Dates: August 27 - 30 | September 3 - 7 | September 10-13








Each year the Maryland State Fair is jam-packed with various FREE entertainment from world class performers. Check out this year’s free entertainment below!
Introducing the AmirrorCAN MEN, a trio of performers who bring to life the brilliant red, white, and blue colors of the American flag in a dazzling display of patriotism that will ignite the spirit and a sense of unity, bravery, and pride in us all. In their custom-made mirror men suits, the AmirrorCAN MEN shimmer and shine like the Stars & stripes themselves as they march, stroll, meet & greet, creating memorable moments that sparkle with National pride.
All weekends
Thursdays: 5 p.m. – 9 p.m.
Fridays-Sundays & Labor Day Monday:
10 a.m. – 9 p.m.
Watch these highly-trained athletes race to the finish during the 2026 Maryland State Fair! We’re proud to provide seven days of racing, August 28-30 and September 4-7. Watch the races and wager in the Grandstand seats as the Thoroughbreds round the 5/8 mile track, or relax in the air-conditioned Off-Track Betting (OTB) Facility.
This event is free to watch! Post times are at 12 pm on each race day and continue until all races are completed.
Watch ornamental blacksmith Jason Anderson as he manipulates iron and steel into unique artistic yet functional designs during non-stop, continuous live demonstrations!
First Weekend Only
Thursday, September 27: 5 p.m. – 8 p.m.
Friday, September 28: 2 p.m. – 8 p.m.
Saturday, September 29: 2 p.m. – 8 p.m.
Sunday, September 30: 2 p.m. – 8 p.m.
Second Weekend Only
Thursday, September 3: 5 p.m. – 8 p.m.
Friday, September 4: 2 p.m. – 8 p.m.
Saturday, September 5: 2 p.m. – 8 p.m.
Sunday, September 6: 2 p.m. – 8 p.m.
Monday, September 7: 2 p.m. – 8 p.m.
Watch as a skilled carver turns logs into detailed wooden creations using chainsaws and hand tools. A fascinating display of craftsmanship!
First Weekend Only
Thursday, September 10: 5 p.m. – 8 p.m.
Friday, September 11: 2 p.m. – 8 p.m.
Saturday, September 12: 2 p.m. – 8 p.m.
Sunday, September 13: 2 p.m. – 8 p.m.
Meet the stars of this high-energy, educational show as playful otters show off their agility and charm in an interactive aquatic performance!
All Weekends
Thursdays: 6:00 p.m. and 8:00 p.m.
Fridays-Sundays & Labor Day Monday:
12:00, 3:00, and 6:00 p.m.
If you’ve never been to a pig race, you’re in for a real treat! The cute little Swifty Swine Racing Pigs are back for another fun season of pig races!
All weekends
Thursdays: 5:30 p.m. and 7:00 p.m.
Fridays-Sundays & Labor Day Monday:
12:30, 2:30, 4:30, 6:30, and 8:00 p.m.
The Strolling Piano is a unique concept in the world of corporate musical entertainment, combining the classic and sophisticated nature of a pianist/singer with the flexibility of a strolling musician.
All weekends
Thursdays: 5 p.m.- 9 p.m.
Fridays-Sundays & Labor Day Monday:
2 p.m.- 9 p.m.
NEW!!! 2 Nights
Battle of the Beast Professional Bull Riding Cowgirl Barrel Racing and more! Cowboys will once again face the bulls for one of America’s fastest growing extreme spectator sports when J Bar W Ranch hosts the Battle of the Beast Bull Riding and Cowgirl Barrel Racing Competition.
August 27th @ 7:30 pm
September 10th @ 7:30 p.m.
Kardenni guarantees a performance to remember! Enjoy magic moments when award-winning magician Kardenni performs his amazing and unique blend of comedy magic.
All weekends
Thursdays: 6:30 p.m.
Fridays-Sundays & Labor Day Monday:
1:30 p.m., 3:30 p.m., and 5:30 p.m.
EXCEPTION-Friday, September 4th:
1:30 p.m., 4:30 p.m., and 5:30 p.m.
Sign up and be the first to hear about announcements, discounts, and special events at the Maryland State Fairgrounds!