The 35th Salem Fair is set for another 12-day run at the Taliaferro Complex this summer. This year’s fair is scheduled to take place from June 28 – July 9 and fairgoers will notice several family-friendly changes when they arrive at the fairgrounds.
This year the fair will close at 10 p.m. each night and along with the minimum age policy and electronic screening measures, the fair is introducing a clear bag policy for the 2023 fair.
Since 2021, the Salem Fair has required that all children 17-and-under must be accompanied by an adult parent or guardian who is age 25-or-older. These adults must always have a valid I.D. in their possession while on the fairgrounds. Electronic metal detection screening at the entry gate will continue and clear bags will be required to enter the fairgrounds.
“The fair was designed in the 1980s to be a true family event for all ages,” Wendy Delano, Salem director of civic facilities, said. “All of the changes we have made in recent years and those we continue to make are for our loyal patrons. We want to do everything we can to provide affordable family fun in a safe environment.”
Deggeller Attractions will be back to provide an array of midway rides in 2023. The Florida-based company has been a Salem Fair partner since the fair began in 1988. Most of the fairs and carnivals Deggeller will service in 2023 close at 10 p.m. nightly.
“The world is a lot different than it was back then and we feel like all of these changes will enhance the fair experience for all ages,” Carey Harveycutter, Salem Fair manager and co-founder, said. “Closing at 10 p.m., requiring clear bags and having security checks at the gate have become the norm for all big events nationwide, and we know the majority of folks greatly appreciate these measures being in place.”
Detailed information on rides, concessions, shows and other attractions is available at www.salemfair.com
“Over the past 35 years, the Salem Fair has provided entertainment to millions of people who otherwise may not have ever experienced something of this magnitude,” Delano said. “During that time, it has grown into Virginia’s largest fair, and it has helped fuel our local economy. But mainly it has provided accessible entertainment for thousands of families, and we want to make sure that tradition continues.”
-The Salem Times-Register