History

The year 1846 is when it all started —the year in which the organization of the Mahoning County Agricultural Society took place. If it wasn’t for Elisha Whittlesey addressing the Congregational Church on the subject of “Competitive Exhibitions as a Means of Awakening More Active Interest in All Industrial Pursuits,” there probably would not be a Canfield Fair. And since 1846, the Canfield Fair has only continued to grow into the beloved summer tradition that it is for the residents of the Valley and beyond. Take a look at the highlights of 174 years of the Canfield Fair.

From the Lennon Sisters in 1956 to The Band Perry in 2015, the top musicians and entertainment acts have been coming to the Canfield Fair since 1956 and have made a presence every year since 1968. Here, you can see the anthology of singers and comedians through the history of the Fair. From the hilarious puppets of Jeff Dunham, to the famous Wayne Newton, and Journey’s “ Don’t Stop Believin’” it can all be found at some point in the Canfield Fair’s records.