Discover the Washington Parish Free Fair: A Tradition Like No Other

Discover the Washington Parish Free Fair: A Tradition Like No Other

If you live on the Northshore of Louisiana and you're looking for something fun and family-friendly to do this fall, the Washington Parish Free Fair is the perfect place to go. Held annually in Franklinton, Louisiana, the Fair has been a family event since 1911 and is the largest free fair in the country. It’s a must-visit for anyone looking to experience the true heart of small-town life while having a blast with rides, food, live music, and much more.

A Free Fair with Endless Fun

One of the best things about the Washington Parish Free Fair is that it’s completely free to attend! You don’t have to buy a ticket just to get in the gate. Once you're inside, there’s plenty to do, from exciting carnival rides to browsing handmade crafts and local goods at the fair's large marketplace.

Do you love live music? The Fair has a variety of performers each year, with country, rock, gospel, and even Cajun music filling the air on multiple stages. Previous years have featured local and regional artists, and larger acts such as country music stars. You can always find a diverse lineup of talent that celebrates the unique culture and sounds of Louisiana.

What to Do at the Fair

At the Fair, there's something for everyone:

• Rides and Games: The carnival midway is packed with rides for thrill-seekers and games for those who love a challenge. Whether you want to ride a classic Ferris wheel or take a spin on more intense rides, you’re sure to find something fun.

• Midway: The midway is packed with vendors offering everything from fried foods to local crafts. You’ll smell funnel cakes and fresh popcorn in the air, and you might even find handmade goods to take home.

• Livestock Exhibits: If you love animals, check out the livestock show! Kids and adults alike will love seeing cows, goats, chickens, and more. Many local farmers and young 4-H members bring their animals to compete in the shows.

• Mile Branch Settlement: Step back in time and experience what life was like for early settlers in Louisiana. This pioneer village is an educational area of the Fair where you can see demonstrations of old-fashioned crafts like blacksmithing and quilting.

Family Traditions at the Fair

For many families in Washington Parish and beyond, the Fair is more than just a fun outing—it’s a yearly tradition. Whether you're watching the parade, which runs through downtown Franklinton on the opening day, or gathering with family at a favorite spot in the fairgrounds, the Fair brings people together.

In fact, every year, the Washington Parish Free Fair attracts over 100,000 visitors from all around the region, including neighboring areas like St. Tammany Parish, Tangipahoa Parish, and the greater New Orleans area. Families travel to enjoy the sense of community and the unique traditions that make the Fair special.

Don’t Miss the 5K!

The Fair also offers a great way to get moving with the Washington Parish Free Fair 5K, held each year during the Fair. Whether you're an experienced runner or just want to walk with family and friends, this 5K is a fun way to kick off your weekend at the Fair. Plus, it’s another chance to experience the beautiful fall weather in Franklinton.

How to Get There and Plan Your Visit

The Washington Parish Free Fair is easy to find—just a short drive from Northshore cities like Covington, Hammond, and Slidell. Parking is available near the fairgrounds, and since there’s no admission fee, you can bring the whole family without breaking the bank. Whether you want to spend a few hours or a whole day, there’s always something to do.

This year’s Fair will take place from October 16-20, 2024, and you can check out the full schedule of events on their official website. With its long history and endless entertainment, the Washington Parish Free Fair is a Northshore tradition you don’t want to miss.

Mark your calendar, round up the family, and get ready to make some memories at this year’s Washington Parish Free Fair!