2016 Harford County Farm Fair

22 Photos

2016 Harford County Farm Fair

Harford County Farm Fair from Baltimore Sun's The Darkroom on Vimeo.

Along the midway, lights twinkle, children scream and cooks deep fry a variety of food for fairgoers at an annual event that harkens memories of the past.

Nine-year-old Elizabeth Balint, a first time 4-H participant, wept openly beside her mother as the moment arrived for her to part ways with her ewe Nora. Leaving her mother’s side, she led Nora through a series of gates to stand in a fenced ring before the packed crowd while the auctioneer chirped out bids from buyers.

Summer is the heart of fair season throughout Maryland, as organizers assemble tents, rides and contests on vacant county lots such as the Harford County Farm Fair grounds outside Bel Air. The core of the county fair highlights youths who are tasked with growing poultry and livestock or fruit/vegetables, with awards given for the best judged in each category.

All 23 counties throughout Maryland host fairs or carnivals. The largest event is the Maryland State Fair (Aug. 25-Sept. 5), and the final one – the Calvert County Fair – lasts Sept 24-28.