How do you like your fair week, a big concert under the lights, a ride that makes you laugh, or a slow walk past prize pumpkins? The 173rd Great Allentown Fair returns August 27 to September 1, 2025, at the Allentown Fairgrounds, bringing a full slate of music, food, contests, and rides. It is the kind of week that reminds you why this tradition lasts. 

Lehigh Valley Medical Malpractice Lawyers care about events that bring people together and help local businesses thrive. This guide breaks down the highlights, from grandstand shows to wristbands, and how to save on tickets, so you can plan a smooth visit this year.

Event overview

Dates and times

  • Wednesday, August 27: 4:00 PM to 10:00 PM
  • Thursday, August 28 to Monday, September 1: 12:00 PM to 10:00 PM, with Labor Day closing at 9:00 PM

If you can, arrive early for easier parking and a calmer stroll through the gates. Plan your day around a grandstand show or a few hours on the midway, then leave time for a sit-down meal and a lap through the exhibits.

Location and admission

  • Location: Allentown Fairgrounds, 302 N. 17th St., Allentown, PA 18104
  • Admission: Adults 13 and up $10; children 12 and under, free

The fairgrounds sit in the heart of the city with clear signage and multiple entrances, which keep foot traffic moving even during peak evening hours. Buy any concert tickets in advance to avoid lines and head straight to your seat with time to spare.

Grandstand entertainment lineup

Schedule

  • Wednesday, August 27: Heart
  • Thursday, August 28: Alabama with Montgomery Gentry featuring Eddie Montgomery
  • Frida,y August 29: Kane Brown with Kameron Marlowe
  • Saturday, August 30: Ace Frehley, Quiet Riot, and Great White
  • Sunda,y August 31: Gabriel Iglesias
  • Monday, September 1: J and J Demolition Derby

These shows anchor each night and set the tone on the midway. If you are planning back to back days, mix one grandstand night with a lighter day of rides and contests so you do not rush dinner or miss a favorite set. Lineups and times are subject to change, so check for updates before you go.

Tips for seats and timing

  • Book early: Popular nights sell fast, and early buyers get better sections.
  • Arrive ahead: Aim to be through the gate 45 minutes before showtime to find seats and grab water.
  • Stay flexible: Use the afternoon for rides and food, then shift toward the grandstand as the crowd builds.

A simple plan keeps stress low and leaves room for a last-minute stop at a vendor you discover on the way.

Special discount admission days

Opening night and Military Day

  • Opening Night Wednesday, August 27: Adults $5 or $3 with a can of food for Second Harvest Food Bank; children 12 and under free
  • Military Day Thursday, August 28: Active military and veterans with ID free all day; general admission free from 12 PM to 2 PM, then $10 after; children 12 and under free

These two days reward early week visits and service. The food drive adds an easy way to give back while trimming your cost at the gate.

Farmers Market Friday and Senior Day

  • Friday, August 29: General admission is free from 12 PM to 2 PM, then $10 after; children 12 and under are free
  • Senior Day Monday, September 1: Seniors 65 and up with ID free all day; general admission 10 dollars; children 12 and under free

If you bring a mixed age group, Friday afternoon and Monday daytime can offer a quieter pace, shorter lines, and easy savings without sacrificing the fun.

Midway rides and attractions

Rides and wristbands

  • Operator: Powers and Thomas Midway Entertainment brings a wide range of rides for young kids, teens, and adults.
  • All Day Ride Wristbands: Available online and at the Fair Box Office through August 26.
  • Hours: Wednesday rides from 4 PM to close; Thursday through Monday rides start at 1 PM and run to close.

Scan the board near the ticket booth for height requirements and plan a loop that works for everyone in your group. Pair the big coasters with slower family rides to keep energy steady.

Easy pacing

  • Breaks help: Rotate rides with snack stops and water refills.
  • Meet points: Pick a clear landmark in case your group splits.
  • Sun prep: Hats and sunscreen make the late afternoon more comfortable.

A little pacing goes a long way, especially if you are staying for the evening show.

Family-friendly contests and entertainment

Highlights

  • Butterfly Kingdom: Walk through an immersive exhibit with hundreds of butterflies and multiple sessions each day
  • Princess Parade: Kids dress as their favorite princesses on Saturday, August 3,0, at 1:30 PM
  • Scrapple Eating Contest: A playful competition on Saturday August 30, at 3:00 PM
  • WZZO Mullet Contest: A lighthearted hairstyle showdown on Saturday August 30 at 7:00 PM
  • Grape Stomp Contest: Roll up your pants and stomp on Sunday, August 3,1, at 3:15 PM

These picks mix hands-on fun with classic fair charm. Arrive a few minutes early to sign in where required, and bring a camera for the moment your kiddo crosses the parade route or your friend wins a ribbon.

How to plan a full day

  • Layer the fun: Start with an exhibit, catch a parade or contest, then swap in a ride set.
  • Keep it simple: Two or three timed activities is plenty, with space for wandering.
  • Leave room to browse: Livestock barns, produce displays, and 4H projects are easy wins between events.

This rhythm keeps the day flexible and relaxed without missing the must-see moments.

Food, drinks, and local vendors

Food

  • Range: A wide slate of vendors serves international bites and fair favorites.
  • Notable names: Haulin’ Butts BBQ, Scott’s Gyro Box, Tlacuani Mexican Restaurant, Sweet Ride Ice Cream, Island Noodles, Joe’s Famous Lemonade
  • Strategy: Share plates so you try more, and grab water whenever you pass a stand.

Start with a savory pick, save room for a sweet, and expect at least one second visit to something that surprises you.

Beer and wine

  • Garden: A designated area features local wineries, breweries, cider, and distillery offerings.
  • Featured labels: Aulenbach Wines, Blue Mountain Vineyards and Cellars, Hardball Cider, Hillbilly Hooch, Jackazz Distillery, Long Trout Winery, Stonekeep Meadery and Wine Cellars
  • Good habits: Bring ID, pace yourself, and pair sips with food.

It is easy to settle in here between sets. Choose a pour that matches the weather and your plans, then head back to the midway when you are ready.

Conclusion

The Great Allentown Fair packs a full week into one walkable space, with national acts at the grandstand, a busy midway, and contests that invite you to join in, not just watch. Discounts make early week visits a smart choice, and wristbands unlock an easy afternoon for families. Plan around one or two timed events, then let the rest unfold. 

Mark your calendar for August 27 to September 1 and meet us at 302 North 17th Street. Do not forget water, sunscreen, and a simple meetup point. As Lehigh Valley Medical Malpractice Lawyers, we value the connections this fair builds for neighbors and small businesses alike.