Washington County Fair
Exploring the New England States is a must for every RVing family. Make sure to include The Washington County Fair as a fun-filled stop.
Event information
Fifty years of tradition and good times are wrapped up in one neat package called The Washington County Fair. This five day long family-oriented fair has been a go-to event for over fifty years and keeps getting bigger and better. Pack the RV and set the coordinates for Richmond, Rhode Island.
Agricultural enthusiasts can check out the beans, beets, and tomatoes and peruse the container garden competition. Those who enjoy the beauty of animals can watch the Junior Dairy Showmanship competition and marvel at the accomplishments of the 4-H exhibitors.
The kids will love seeing how a cow is milked and can gaze at the Queen of the fair and her party. The mini prince and princess will be in attendance, too. Other special events include watermelon spitting, pie eating, and egg toss contests.
The adults aren’t left out of the fun; demonstrate your strength in the arm wrestling ring or show off your frisbee throwing skills. The musical entertainment on the main stage is set to get your toe tapping and your hands clapping.
Tickets
Tickets are sold at the fair, at selected establishments in the area, and can be ordered by mail. See www.thewashingtoncountyfair-ri.com for details about your purchase method. You can order a strip of tickets for all five days, which will save you the cost of one day. Single day tickets are around $10; children under the age of ten are free every day at the Washington County Fair.
Explore Washington County Fair RV Rentals
Transportation
Driving
Head to South County, Rhode Island to find the fair. Set the coordinates for route 112 and enjoy the simple drive through the countryside. You will be in a mainly wooded area with views of beautiful terrain, full of wildlife. Watch out for wayward chipmunks and bunnies that may be crossing the road. Fairground staff can direct you to park.
Parking areas
There is onsite parking, but it may fill up so arrive early if you need to have your vehicle close by the event. Offsite parking is another option and includes a free shuttle to the grounds. The offsite lot will open once the fairgrounds parking area fills up. Both lots can be used without cost.
Public Transportation
Being an event that is held a distance from town, there are no public transport options. Washington County Fair is held in the country, allowing attendees to experience the tranquility of rural life.
Where to stay
Onsite
Camping at The Washington County Fair is not permitted, but nearby areas like Coventry, Hope Valley, and South Kingstown will have what campers need. Part of the trip is the planning, and you'll enjoy making your selection in this region.
Nearby
Area campgrounds, such as in nearby Hope Valley, will suit the RVing family who enjoys wide open spaces and lots of shade. Full facilities and pull through sites make for an easy and convenient set up of camp. Get the site prepped for the stay while the kids check out the playground and make new friends. Alternatively, camp in Wakefield if you like to canoe and sit around the fire pit at night.
Getting around
Plan on wearing your comfiest footwear as the mode of transport is on foot. No motor vehicles are permitted within the fairgrounds. If you have a wheelchair, call ahead to check on the ease of getting around, especially in the event of rain as the terrain may become muddy and a challenge to navigate.
What to pack
Clothing
The daily weather forecast will dictate your wardrobe so pack for every instance. Make sure each family member has a hat and sunglasses to protect the skin and eyes from the sun’s bright rays. Comfortable, easy to clean clothing is ideal; the kids may get down and dirty when joining in on the pie eating contest or sampling a cool and refreshing slushy.
Gear
Keep it simple for this event. There is plenty to keep everyone busy so pack light. Bring along empty water bottles for refilling and cameras for documenting the smiles. Add sweaters to the backpacks, and wipes for cleaning hands and faces. Leave the cooler back at camp as they are not permitted at the fair.
Health & Safety
Cold drinks, sunscreen protection, and bug repellant are key to a good time. The kiddos may not want to slow down long enough for a drink but insist upon it whether they protest or not. Onsite security and the Richmond Police Department will be on the grounds to handle any concerns about safety through the duration of The Washington County Fair.
Where to eat
Cooking
The Rhode Island air is sure to build up an appetite. In preparation for cooking at camp, stock the RV with briquets and the supplies you’ll need for stress-free mealtimes. There is nothing better than a campfire meal. Prepare corn on the cob and burgers when you return to the campsite and tell everyone to save room for s’mores.
Restaurants
Small town diners, pizza joints, and country fare restaurants will please the palate after a day at the fair. Head into town if you’d like the night off from cooking and try out home-style shepherd’s pie, a hearty plate of fish and chips, or a tasty roasted beet salad.
Vendors
Choose from over twenty food vendors, happy to serve you delicious New England fare. Part of the charm of the fair is the uniqueness of the exhibits and booths. Peruse over one hundred displays of quality merchandise, artisanal food and wares, and locally sold goods. Try the salted potatoes and kielbasa sausage or let the kids try out the chocolate chip cookies.
Safety
Security
Richmond Police and private security personnel will ensure that all is in order throughout the five days and that everyone adheres to the simple rules. It’s a county fair; it’s all about fresh air, fun, and family. No alcohol is permitted, and those acting disorderly will be removed from the fairgrounds.
Weather
August is a perfect time of year for The Washington County Fair. Richmond, Rhode Island is beautiful in the summer. Enter the fair gates expecting to be comfortable all day long but plan for all types of weather when you pack. A rainy few days won’t dampen spirits but will necessitate the need for rain gear.
Medical
A well-stocked camper includes a top-notch first-aid kit. Keep band-aids on hand for scrapes and cuts that may occur when climbing a hill. Peroxide is a must for cleaning wounds, and antiseptic cream will soothe the itchiest bug bite. If you need medical assistance when at the fair, ask the security on staff who will be happy to help.
