Berlin Fair's 76th Edition Promises Full Stomachs, Wide Smiles

BERLIN, CT — One of the most anticipated events on the local calendar starts this Thursday, Sept. 11, lasting through the weekend.

The beloved Berlin Fair, now in its 76th year, will take place Thursday to Sunday, Aug. 11-14, at the Berlin Fairgrounds at 410 Beckley Road, Berlin.

"Since 1949, the Berlin Lions Club has operated the Berlin Fair, and it has been the main event in town ever since," wrote the Berlin Lions Club, whose popular event has been dubbed "The Biggest Little Fair in Connecticut."

"The fair takes place the weekend of the third Sunday in September of every year. Each year brings new and exciting entertainment and events."

This year, the fair promises to have the usual array of food, fun, and music.

There will be corn dogs and fried dough to devour, rides to make what was devoured, possibly, come back out, and enough toe-tapping music to please anyone's ear.

Fair admission is $15 if being paid for in cash, $17.50 if a credit card is being used, with myriad discounts and free admission options for groups, senior citizens, military members, students, and children under 11.

The fair's hours are: Thursday. Sept. 11, 4 to 10 10 p.m.; Friday, 11 a.m. to 10 p.m.; Saturday, 9 a.m. to 10 p.m.; and Sunday, 9 a.m. to 7 p.m.

The Berlin Lions Club has an extensive website detailing the schedule of events each day at the fair.

The Berlin Police Department, meanwhile, issued an alert Monday about the traffic situation around the fairgrounds, which, basically, required patience.

"As always, normal traffic patterns will be affected, roads will be closed or rerouted and heavy traffic is expected," wrote the BPD.
Police said GPS apps WAZE and GOOGLE MAPS should accurately reflect the detours and Beckley Road being a one-way street during fair hours.

Detours should start at or about fair opening time each day.

Police said Mother Nature could impact the fair in a good way for events and attendance, but a bad way as far as parking/traffic are concerned.

"Good weather is expected, which means crowds and on-site parking typically fill within hours of opening. All are encouraged to use shuttle buses," wrote the BPD.

Police said no weapons, including pocket knives and pepper spray, are allowed on fair grounds, so stow them away before boarding shuttle buses.

Said police: "Please pack your patience and positive attitude and have a great and safe fair season."

For more information on the Berlin Fair, including event schedules and ticket sales, click on this link.

For parking information on the Berlin Fair, click on this link.