The Sandwich Fair: Why This No-Frills NH Fair Is a Local Favorite
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The Sandwich Fair doesn't have a massive midway. It doesn't sell alcohol. There are no demolition derbies or grandstand concerts. And for the families who come back every year on Columbus Day weekend, that's exactly the point.
Held in the Lakes Region town of Sandwich, New Hampshire, this fair feels like it hasn't changed in 50 years — in the best possible way. It's a pure agricultural fair, focused on livestock, crafts, horse pulls, good food, and community. If you're looking for the most authentic New England fair experience in New Hampshire, this might be it.
What Makes It Special
The Sandwich Fair is deliberately old-fashioned. It's organized by the Sandwich Fair Association, which has been running the event since 1928, and the emphasis has always been on agriculture and community rather than entertainment spectacle.
There are no carnival rides for adults — just a small children's area with modest amusements. The midway is replaced by exhibit halls, craft vendors, and agricultural displays. The entertainment is horse and ox pulling, livestock judging, and the occasional live music performance.
For some visitors, that sounds boring. For others — and the fair draws thousands every year — it sounds perfect. The Sandwich Fair is for people who want to slow down, browse handmade quilts, watch a horse pull, eat a pie, and talk to their neighbors.
What You'll Find
Horse and ox pulling is the signature event. Teams compete throughout the fair, and the pulling ring is the social center of the grounds. It's where the crowd gathers, and it's genuinely exciting to watch.
Livestock shows include cattle, sheep, goats, and poultry. The 4-H youth shows are a highlight — Sandwich draws exhibitors from across the Lakes Region and beyond.
The exhibit halls are packed with agricultural displays, handmade crafts, quilts, canned goods, baked goods, and floral arrangements. The judging is taken seriously, and the quality of the entries is impressive.
Craft vendors set up along the fairgrounds selling handmade goods — woodworking, pottery, jewelry, knitted items, maple products, and more. This is a great place to find unique, locally made gifts.
The food is homestyle fair fare — apple pie, cider donuts, corn chowder, grilled sausage, and baked goods made by local volunteers. Nothing fancy, everything good.
When and Where
The Sandwich Fair typically runs for three days over Columbus Day weekend (Saturday, Sunday, Monday) in early October. The fairgrounds are in the center of the town of Sandwich, in the Lakes Region of New Hampshire — about 30 minutes from Meredith and about an hour from Concord.
The setting is spectacular — surrounded by fall foliage in early October, with views of the Sandwich Range in the distance. If you time it right, the drive alone is worth the trip.
Tips for Visiting
Arrive early for parking. The fair is popular and the town is small. Parking can get tight, especially on Saturday. Arriving in the morning gives you the best selection.
Bring cash. Many food and craft vendors are cash only.
Dress warm. Early October in the Lakes Region can be genuinely cold, especially in the morning and evening. Layers are essential.
Plan to eat. The food at Sandwich is homemade and better than you'd expect. The apple pie and cider donuts are particularly worth seeking out.
Bring the family. This is one of the most family-friendly fairs in New Hampshire — no alcohol, no loud entertainment, and a pace that works for all ages.
More New Hampshire Fair Guides on Meet Me at the Fair
- Your Guide to New Hampshire Fairs & Festivals in 2026 — Complete overview of the NH fair circuit
- Deerfield Fair 2026: A Visitor's Guide to New Hampshire's Most Beloved Fair — New England's oldest family fair
- New Hampshire Sheep and Wool Festival: A Guide for Fiber Enthusiasts — The top fiber arts event in New England
Last updated: April 2026
