Oregon State Fair Opens Friday in Salem, Running Through Labor Day Weekend

The Oregon State Fair returns to the Oregon State Fairgrounds in Salem starting Friday, August 28, and runs through September 7 — covering the entire Labor Day weekend. For families in Beaverton, Gresham, Lake Oswego, West Linn, or the Clackamas area, it's a straightforward drive down I-5, typically under an hour depending on traffic.

Beyond the usual midway rides, animal exhibits, and fair food, the fair's concert lineup runs at the LB Day Amphitheater throughout the run. A limited number of seats are included with general fair admission on a first-come, first-served basis, or a reserved ticket can be purchased in advance to guarantee a spot.

Crowds tend to build toward the back half of the run, with Labor Day weekend itself the busiest stretch by far. Visiting on an early weekday — the fair's first few days especially — is the easiest way to skip long lines at the gate and the more popular rides.

Tickets and the full schedule are available at oregonstatefair.org ahead of opening day.