The Oregon State Fair is one of the most beloved annual traditions in the Beaver State. Since 1862, this epic festival has marked the end of summer, inviting Oregonians to come and revel at the 185-acre Oregon State Fairgrounds. There have been only a few times the fair has been cancelled in its 150+ year tenure; 2020 was one of those historic exceptions. Happily, the Oregon State Fair is back on for 2021, and you'll want to play a day out to partake in this time-honored tradition.

Mark your calendars: the 2021 Oregon State Fair is happening Aug. 27-Sept. 6 at the acclaimed Oregon State Fairgrounds in Salem.

One of the longest-running and largest festivals in Oregon, the Oregon State Fair has been a Beaver State tradition since 1862.

In 2020, the fair, like so many other events across the country, was cancelled.

The fair has been held every year at the same site -- the eponymous fairgrounds -- with just a handful of exceptions: 1905, when the Lewis and Clark Centennial Exposition was taking place in Portland; in 1943 and 1944, when the fairgrounds were leased to WWII military units; and, of course, in 2020, due to COVID-19.

As one of the longest-running festivals in Oregon, folks come to participate in time-honored traditions, such as the beloved 4-H exhibitions.

The Oregon State Fair also embraces the state's affinity for the weird, hosting some truly unique events, too!

An event with historical significance and broad appeal, the Oregon State Fair has hosted some of the best musical acts in the country, from The Beach Boys and Newsboys to The Commodores. (Chicago will be headlining this year's musical lineup.)

Of course, no visit to this festival is complete without partaking in a variety of fair fare. Whether you're into deep-fried Twinkies and fried Snickers bars, or are more of a funnel-cake-and-corn-dog traditionalist, you'll find all your favorite carnival treats here.

It just isn't summer in Oregon without the Oregon State Fair. We're so happy it's back, and can't wait to take part in this beloved Beaver State event!

The 2021 Oregon State Fair returns Aug. 27-Sept. 6 at the Oregon State Fairgrounds. Tickets are on sale now via Etix, and can be purchased from the Oregon State Fair website.

Looking for more fun fall festivals in Oregon to add to your calendar? Be sure to check out the Shrewsbury Renaissance Faire, which celebrates 25 years of riot and revelry Sept. 11-12 in Kings Valley.