Each August, Wilmington, Vermont transforms into a lively hub of small-town celebration as the Deerfield Valley Farmers’ Day Fair returns to Baker Field. Now in its 106th year, the fair is one of southern Vermont’s most cherished summer traditions—a weekend packed with horse pulls, tractor contests, livestock exhibits, midway rides, and the ever-popular demolition derby.
If you’re planning a trip to the area, this is a can’t-miss event—especially for families looking for a fun, affordable day out just minutes from Valley View Villa.
Fair Dates & Location
🗓 typically held the second weekend of August (Friday through Sunday)
📍 Baker Field, Wilmington, Vermont (about 12 minutes from Valley View Villa)
The fair traditionally begins Friday afternoon and runs through Sunday evening. Key events take place each day—so whether you’re into horsepower, handcrafts, or maple cotton candy, there’s something to look forward to.
What’s Happening This Year?
Here’s a look at what to expect based on previous years:
🔥 Friday, August 8
- 4×4 Truck Pull @ 5 PM (gates open at 3 PM)
Massive trucks, roaring engines, and lots of dirt. A thrilling kickoff event!
🐴 Saturday, August 9
- Horse Pull @ 10 AM
Heavy draft horses compete in one of Vermont’s oldest fair traditions.
🚗 Sunday, August 10
- Demolition Derby (Time TBA)
It’s loud, chaotic, and absolutely a crowd favorite. Bring hearing protection for little ones!
🎪 All Weekend:
- Midway carnival rides & games
- Livestock barns with goats, pigs, sheep, cows & poultry
- Blue-ribbon fruits, vegetables, and local crafts
- Kids activities and 4-H exhibitions
- Local vendors, food trucks, maple treats & creemees
Tips for Visiting with Kids
As a family-friendly vacation rental, we know what makes or breaks a day out with little ones. Here are a few things to keep in mind:
- Cash is still king: Most vendors accept cash only. Some ATMs may be onsite, but come prepared.
- Budget: General admission is typically $10/adult, $5/child (5–11), and free for under 4. Ride tickets and food are extra.
- Bring sun protection & layers: It can be hot under the midday sun, but evenings cool off fast.
- Parking fills fast: Arrive early, especially Friday and Sunday afternoons.
- Wagons & strollers: Grounds are grassy and mostly flat—ideal for hauling tired kids (and maybe a giant stuffed animal).
What to Eat at the Fair
The food is half the reason people go. Expect classic fair staples: fried dough dusted with powdered sugar, fresh-squeezed lemonade, maple creemees (Vermont’s version of soft serve), sausage subs, pulled pork sandwiches, and kettle corn. Local vendors also bring blueberry pie, apple cider donuts, and grilled corn on the cob.
Budget around $30–40 per person for food if you plan to eat lunch and snacks. Kids will gravitate toward the cotton candy and snow cones – figure $3–5 per treat. A few vendors accept cards now, but cash is still the safer bet for the smaller stalls.
Planning Your Day
If you can only go one day, Saturday is the best all-around pick. The horse pull is a genuine spectacle, the midway is fully operational, and the livestock barns are open all day. Sunday’s demolition derby is the most exciting single event but tends to draw the biggest crowds – arrive early for parking.
Friday evening is actually the most relaxed time to visit. The 4×4 truck pull starts at 5 PM, the midway is less crowded, and the atmosphere feels more local. It’s a great option if you want the fair experience without the Saturday rush.
Plan to spend 3–4 hours at the fair. The grounds aren’t huge, but between the midway, livestock barns, food vendors, and main events, there’s plenty to fill an afternoon. Bring a blanket or camp chairs if you want to stake out a good spot for the horse pull or demolition derby.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much is admission to the Deerfield Valley Farmers’ Day Fair?
Check dvfair.com for current admission pricing. Ride tickets and food are sold separately.
Is the fair good for toddlers?
Yes. The livestock barns are a hit with little ones – goats, pigs, chickens, and cows up close. The midway has a few rides sized for younger kids. The grounds are flat and stroller-friendly. Just bring ear protection if you’re going to the truck pull or demolition derby.
How far is the fair from Mount Snow?
Baker Field in Wilmington is about 12 minutes from Valley View Villa and 15 minutes from Mount Snow Resort. It’s an easy drive on Route 100 and Route 9.
Where do I park at the Farmers’ Day Fair?
Parking is available around Baker Field and in nearby lots. It’s free but limited – arrive before noon on Saturday and Sunday for the best spots. Friday evening parking is usually not an issue.
Stay Local, Stay Relaxed
After a day of carnival rides and diesel fumes, there’s no better place to unwind than Valley View Villa. Our 8-bedroom home is just 10–12 minutes up the road, with a hot tub, fire pit, private hiking trail, and space for large families or friend groups to spread out. With Mount Snow’s adventure park and Lake Whitingham nearby, you can easily turn fair weekend into a full-fledged summer retreat.
If you’re towing a trailer for a horse, tractor, or antique car, let us know—we’ve got plenty of space for it.
Quick Reference
| What | 106th Annual Deerfield Valley Farmers’ Day Fair |
|---|---|
| When | the second weekend of August each year |
| Where | Baker Field, Wilmington, VT |
| Highlights | Truck Pull, Horse Pull, Demolition Derby, Livestock & Midway |
| Admission | Check dvfair.com for current admission pricing |
| Website | dvfair.com |
| @DeerfieldValleyFarmersDayFair |
🗺️ More to Explore Near Mount Snow
- Top Things to Do Near Mount Snow — Top activities and attractions in the area
- Covered Bridges of Southern Vermont: A Charming Driving Tour from Wilmington — Charming historic bridge driving tour
- 1846 Tavern & Restaurant at West Dover Inn: Classic Vermont Pub Fare Near Mount Snow — Great dining near Mount Snow
- Best Hiking Trails Near Mount Snow — The best trails and outdoor adventures nearby
