Maryland State Fair Will Return With New Rules For Youth And An Emphasis On Safety

BALTIMORE COUNTY - The Maryland State Fair in Timonium will return this year with an emphasis on safety and new rules for youth at the fair.

Andy Cashman, the general manager for the Maryland State Fair, said that despite the overwhelmingly positive atmosphere, large groups of juveniles caused some disturbances last year.

"We had kids ranging from as young as 13-14 all the way up to 17 and 18-year-olds coming to the fair in large numbers. Hundreds of kids were running through the fairgrounds, jumping fences, and just generally being too rowdy," Cashman said. "It just was a very uncomfortable thing, kind of like what's been happening down at the Towson Town Center and the White Marsh Mall."

According to fair officials, children under 18 will only be admitted into the fairgrounds after 6:00 p.m. if accompanied by someone 21 or older. Additionally, admission gates will close at 9:00 p.m., with some buildings on the premises closing at 8:00 p.m.

Officials clarified that nobody would be kicked out of the park before closing time, and rides, food, and entertainment will all be available until it officially closes for the day.

The fair has also added new metal detectors at all entrances to ensure that its policy prohibiting weapons is strictly enforced. Weapons have always been banned on the premises, but in the past, security has used screen wands and bag searches to find contraband.

According to Cashman, these policies aim to preserve the fair's family atmosphere and educational value.

"We are a family event. We try to present the fair as educational. Folks come here and learn about agriculture. You know, if you want to go to a carnival, we tell you to go to Hershey Park or six flags or something like that,' Cashman said.

The 2023 state fair will run for three consecutive weekends (Aug. 24-27, Aug. 31-Sept. 4, and Sept. 7-10).

You can visit the Maryland State Fair's website for a complete list of events, vendors, and more at this year's fair.

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