An Outing to The Cabarrus County Fair
The Cabarrus County Fair has been a cherished tradition in North Carolina for decades, bringing together families, farmers, and community members in celebration of agriculture, local talent, and old-fashioned fun. Its origins trace back to the county’s rich farming heritage, when fairs served as important gatherings for sharing knowledge, showcasing livestock, and promoting agricultural growth. Over the years, the event expanded beyond its agricultural roots to include rides, games, contests, and live entertainment, while still honoring the values of community and rural life that sparked its creation.
By the mid-20th century, the Cabarrus County Fair had become a highlight of the regional calendar, offering a unique blend of education and entertainment. Today, it continues to thrive as a family-friendly event that balances tradition with modern attractions. Visitors can enjoy exhibits of crafts, flowers, and animals alongside thrilling rides, food vendors, and concerts. The fair not only celebrates the county’s farming legacy but also fosters community pride, making it a vibrant symbol of Cabarrus County’s history and identity.
Here are some specific dates and milestones in the history of the Cabarrus County Fair:
Although agricultural fairs were held in Cabarrus County as early as the 1870s, the more formally organized Cabarrus County Agricultural Fair in its present continuity dates from 1953, when it was planned and financed by an independent fair board.
For many years (49 years), from 1953 until 2002, the fair was held at the “old fairgrounds” at the intersection of Cabarrus Avenue and Union Cemetery Road.
In 2000, the Cabarrus County Board of Commissioners agreed to take over responsibility for the fair, exchanging ownership of the original fairgrounds.
In 2001, groundbreaking took place for a new location and facility (Cabarrus Arena & Events Center) on a 70-acre parcel at Highway 49 and Old Airport Road in Concord.
The first fair held at the new Cabarrus Arena & Events Center was the 50th Annual Cabarrus County Fair in 2002. This is also when the fair officially became a county-operated event.
More recently, in 2022, the fair celebrated its 70th anniversary since the formal restarting in 1953.
