SWANZEY, N.H. — One of the Monadnock Region’s biggest summer traditions returns Thursday as the 2026 Cheshire Fair opens for four days of agricultural exhibits, carnival rides, live entertainment and family activities at the Cheshire Fairgrounds on Route 12 in Swanzey.

The fair opens at 8 a.m. Thursday, with the midway opening at 10 a.m. Children ages 11 and younger will receive free admission on opening day.

Thursday’s schedule features a mix of agricultural competitions, educational exhibits and hands-on activities throughout the fairgrounds. Visitors can watch 4-H livestock shows, wood carving demonstrations, a robotics demonstration and the Reptiles of New England exhibit. Families can also cool off at a foam party during the day, while children can take part in a cupcake eating contest.

Evening events include a skillet toss and dairy goat obstacle course before Team East BMX performs in the grandstand at 6:30 p.m. Live music will continue throughout the evening on the fair’s entertainment stages.

The Cheshire Fair runs through Sunday, Aug. 2. Gates are open from 8 a.m. to 10 p.m. Thursday through Saturday and from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. Sunday. Carnival rides open daily at 10 a.m.

Throughout the weekend, fairgoers can enjoy livestock competitions, horse shows, carnival rides, games, educational exhibits and demonstrations celebrating the region’s agricultural heritage. Live music will be featured daily, while grandstand attractions include Friday’s tractor pull, Saturday’s 4×4 truck pull and Sunday’s annual demolition derby, which requires a separate admission ticket.

Admission is $15 for adults, $5 for children ages 5 to 11 and seniors 62 and older, while children 4 and younger are admitted free. Military members with identification receive free admission. Seniors 62 and older will also receive free admission on Sunday.

Ride tickets and unlimited ride wristbands are sold separately through Fanelli Amusements, with digital tickets available online or at kiosks on the fairgrounds.

A complete schedule of events, entertainment and exhibitor information is available at cheshirefair.org