From thrilling rides and live music to delicious fair food, family-friendly attractions and community exhibits, the 186th Annual Orange County Fair brought thousands of visitors to Middletown, N.Y., for a celebration of one of the Hudson Valley’s longest-running summer traditions.
Running from July 23 through Aug. 2, this year’s fair featured exciting new attractions, including the debut of Circus Murcia’s Big Top Circus and the adrenaline-pumping Wild Wheels Wall of Death Thrill Show, along with Monster Trucks, tribute bands, fireworks, a petting zoo, midway rides and dozens of local vendors.
Beyond the entertainment, many participants said the fair continues to serve as a place where families, neighbors and local businesses connect.
New attractions add thrills to a beloved summer event
Among the vendors was Jesse Wright, a karate instructor whose school is affiliated with the New Paltz Karate Academy. Rather than waiting for people to walk into a dojo, Wright said community events like the Orange County Fair allow instructors to meet people in a relaxed setting.
“A lot of people are very intimidated about walking into a dojo,” Wright said. “So we meet the public where they are.”
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Wright believes martial arts teaches far more than self-defense. He encourages students to stay aware of their surroundings while building confidence through consistent practice.
“I want my students to walk away going, ‘I can do this,'” he said. “Whether they’re 5 years old or 85 years old.”
He has practiced karate for about 10 years after first bringing his son to class and noted that earning a black belt takes dedication—about five and a half years of training.
Local businesses and organizations connect with the community
For businesses, the fair also provides valuable opportunities to meet local residents face to face.
Representatives from Window Nation, a longtime window and door company, said they enjoy attending community events because they allow families to ask questions in a comfortable, no-pressure environment.
“We’re very chill. We’re very laid back,” one representative said. “If you need us, we’re here. If you don’t, have a good rest of your day.”
Community organizations also used the fair to educate families. Staff from a local fire department brought an interactive display for children, hoping young visitors would learn more about fire safety while having fun.
“It’s good for the community… to educate the kids,” one firefighter said.
Families celebrate together through shared experiences
Visitors echoed the fair’s role as a community gathering place.
Denysia, attending with her children—including one celebrating a sixth birthday—said she discovered the fair on Facebook and especially enjoyed the rides.
“I think it’s important for people to be able to get out and do stuff together… You see a lot of different cultures here, so it’s important for everyone as a community to be able to get together in one place and have fun,” she said.
James Myers, who attended with his family after seeing a roadside sign, described the fair as “good, clean fun.”
“Big events like this bring communities together so all the families can come out and have fun,” he said.
For longtime local resident Gisela, visiting the Orange County Fair has become an annual family tradition.
“We come here every year,” she said, adding that the fair “brings families together” and gives friends and neighbors a chance to reconnect during summer vacation.
A community tradition that keeps growing
Many vendors have equally deep roots at the fair. Connor Roberts said his family’s game booths have been part of his life since childhood.
“My family owns some of the games here, and I’ve worked with them my entire life,” Roberts said.
He hopes visitors leave with lasting memories.
“I hope the visitors take that this is a great family experience,” he said. “I hope they enjoy this time with their family.”
Now in its 186th year, the Orange County Fair continues to blend cherished traditions with new attractions. From thrilling performances and exciting rides to local businesses, educational exhibits and opportunities for families to spend quality time together, the fair remains a signature summer event that celebrates the spirit of the Hudson Valley.
