History: The first agricultural fair in Aroostook County took place in 1845 and the Northern Maine Fair was incorporated in 1851. It was not long before it was decided that Presque Isle, because of its central location, would be where the fair was held. The fair was originally three days and held in September before being moved to August, where it is now 4 days. Harness racing became one of the main attractions in the 1920s. No fair was held from 1942-45 because of the war. Harness racing stopped at the fair in 2020. Carnival rides have also not been included since 2021.
Month Held: The Northern Maine Fair takes place annually in early August.
Attractions: The Northern Maine Fair no longer offers carnival rides or harness racing. It is more about family and agricultural pursuits. Lil’ Lumberjacks at the Fair is an educational interactive exhibition for kids. It will take place in several buildings and include multiple activities. The Lumberjack Roundup and Expo lets men and women compete in traditional logging skills. The tractor and truck pulls draw large crowds and the Grandstand is the site for the Freestyle MX Show, where riders on motorbikes perform amazing jumps and tricks. Food is a big attraction and the selection is outstanding. Whether you want fried frog legs, or a more traditional hotdog, hamburger, or fish and chips, it is here for you. The Lions Club offers burgers, hot or sweet sausage with peppers and onions, hotdogs, doughboys, and poutine. Lemonade and pizza, kettle corn and cotton candy, fried Oreos, fried cauliflower, and fried dill pickles can all be enjoyed.
Free Moose Maine-iah Monster Truck rides are offered all four days. The Rods, Rides, and Relics Car Show is in the Forum on Saturday and Sunday. Live music is offered every day and The Blue Ribbon Home and Craft Show will be featured in the Commercial Exhibition Hall. The George Allen Arena will host the 4-H and open horse shows. Free children's carnival games are offered as well as livestock exhibitions.
Competitions include all the usually canned and preserved foods as well as the whoopie pie contest, scallop potato contest, and apple pie contest. The University of Maine Cooperative Extension will give talks on farming and agriculture-related topics. Displays will feature blacksmithing, forestry, crops, and farm equipment.
Admission:
- Regular adult (13 yrs old and up) admission is $8.00
- Children 7-12: $2.00
- Under 6: FREE
Parking: Parking is free and located on the fairgrounds.
