For other uses of the word fair see Fair (disambiguation)

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Fair is the name for the gathering together of people to display or trade produce or other goods, to parade or display animals and often to enjoy associated carnival or fairground entertainment.

It is a centuries-old tradition, and many communities have long had dedicated fairgrounds, while others hold them in a variety of public places, including streets and town squares, or even in large private gardens. They are often held in conjunction with a significant event, such as the anniversary of a local historical event, a seasonal event such as harvest time, or with a holiday such as Christmas.

Activities at fairs vary widely, and they are known by many different names around the world, such as carnival, fete, county or state fair, festival, market and show, etc. Activities such as flea markets are sometimes incorporated in a fair.

The place at a fair (commonly an American fair such as a county or state fair) where amusement park rides, entertainment and fast food booths are concentrated is called the Midway, named after the avenue of amusments at the 1893 World Columbian Exposition in Chicago.

Fairs are sometimes important showcases for businessmen in agricultural, pastoral and horticultural districts because they present opportunities to display and demonstrate the latest machinery on the market.

See also

• World's Fair
• State fair
• Trade fair

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