What's new at Delaware State Fair 2024? What to know before you go

CLARIFICATION. The Delaware State Fair is introducing a sensory-friendly carnival on July 23. The fair is not partnered with any other organization for this event. The story has been revised to reflect this new information. 

The Delaware State Fair celebrates its 105th anniversary this month, but don't let its age fool you — this fan-favorite event still has new surprises up its sleeve.

The fair returns to Harrington on Thursday, July 18, to Saturday, July 27.

The event boasts its carnival, racing pigs, major concert headliners including rapper Ludacris and country star Brantley Gilbert, a livestock extravaganza, games, zoo, circus, and oodles more. 

"Our big thing at the Delaware State Fair is making sure that families and people from all walks of life feel welcome and included and can come and have a good time and feel like it's an accessible, fun thing to do with their family and their friends," said Carly Callahan, marketing and sponsorship manager for the state fair.

We'll cut to the chase and share highlights for what's new at this year's Delaware State Fair, which is themed "Small State BIG FUN!” 

Delaware State Fair wants faster lines

When you arrive at the main entrance, fairgoers will notice a new and improved entry system designed to offer a more streamlined process, and hopefully faster lines.

People who already have purchased tickets will be able to go through a fast-track line on the far left and go straight to screening. Fans who attended the fair last year noticed a new scanning and screening system, which will return this year. 

"We're just trying to help our patrons and give them a clear and concise system of entry," Callahan said.

New food and vendors at Delaware State Fair

From fried alligator to Cheeto-dusted corn dogs, food at the state fair is a big deal to visitors.

Chester's Gators & Tators, a regular vendor known for alligator bites, is back with new menu items. This includes sweet and spicy cheese-puffs fried pickles and sweet and spicy cheese-puffs corn dogs, Callahan said.

The state fair spokesperson also said two new vendors are coming this summer. One of them is Two Bay Twists, a food truck that specializes in Pennsylvania Dutch pretzels.

The other new vendor is Creekside Roasting, which offers muffins (chocolate, blueberry, coffee cake), chocolate chip cookies, sugar cookies, ice cream, hot and cold coffee.

Considering there's an old joke that the hottest days of summer are during the state fair, Callahan said it's unique that they're hosting a vendor that serves coffee.

"I think this may be our first time that we've offered any sort of coffee option just because it's so hot. But I think people will be excited because our fairgrounds open at 9 a.m. [for folks] to be able to grab an iced latte, or one with a specialty flavor shot like lavender. They have all different types of options," she said.

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Sensory-friendly carnival debuts at Delaware State Fair 

Aiming to become more inclusive, the state fair is launching a special sensory-friendly carnival on Kids' Day from 1 to 5 p.m. on Tuesday, July 23.

Kids' Day means children under age 12 get free admission to the fair.

The sensory-friendly carnival features dimmed lighting, lower music volumes and minimized use of loudspeaker announcements. These adjustments strive to create a more welcoming environment for guests with sensory sensitivities such as autism, allowing individuals to fully enjoy the rides, games, and attractions without the usual overwhelming stimuli.

"In my opinion, the most exciting addition to the fair is our sensory-friendly carnival," Callahan said. "We want accessibility for everyone. That's the most important thing."

Free new concerts at Delaware State Fair

While the major concerts on the M&T Bank Grandstand with acts like Ludacris and Brantley Gilbert require a ticket, plus the cost of fair admission, guests looking for free musical performances can get a daily dose from two new acts at Hertrich Plaza.

First up is Kelsey Rae and 2B1. While Kelsey Rae is no stranger to performing at the fair, what's new is she will be joined by the band 2B1. Kelsey and the band focus on music they hope spreads the message of environmental awareness, Callahan said.

Kelsey Rae and 2B1 perform every day of the fair at 6 and 8 p.m. Another new artist is the rising Nashville country singer Jess Kellie Adams. She will perform daily at 7 and 9 p.m.     

Delaware State Fair strives to keep rides safe

The state fair has a good reputation for offering safe carnival rides through its longtime and continued relationship with amusement rides juggernaut Wade Shows.

But last year, despite all of its rides passing inspection, the Zero Shock attraction malfunctioned and a woman was injured, an official confirmed.

Callahan said the ride won't return this year.

Delaware’s Office of the State Fire Marshal oversees all amusement rides in the state. Last summer, the state sent Delaware Online/The News Journal the ride inspection results on Friday, July 21. All rides in the report passed inspection. 

Last year, state fair spokesperson Danny Aguilar confirmed an injury occurred on the Zero Shock and said officials have been in touch with the victim's family.

A week before the 105th Delaware State Fair begins, Callahan said they're doing their best to make sure no other ride malfunctions happen.

"We definitely pride ourselves on making sure that the rides are as safe and up to code as possible," she said. "If anything ever was, or is to happen, we take full responsibility and make sure that we're doing all that we can to keep our patrons safe."

’Huge' fans added for concerts at Delaware State Fair

Imagine having a more comfortable and less sweaty experience while watching concerts, Demolition Derby or harness racing at the Grandstand.

State fair organizers have added fans that completely cover the ceiling of the Grandstand.

"It'll help to alleviate some of that pain that people are feeling from the hot weather," Callahan said. 

How much is Delaware State Fair 2024?

Delaware State Fair (18500 S. Dupont Highway, Harrington) is Thursday, July 18, through Saturday, July 27. Gates open daily at 9 a.m., and the fair ends daily at 11 p.m. General admission tickets for adults (ages 13+) are $10 in person or $10.50 (online); youth (ages 6-12) are $5 in person or $5.50 (online); free for kids age 5 or younger. Concerts on the Grandstand are extra. Visit delawarestatefair.com or call (302) 398-3269.

News Journal reporter Shannon Marvel McNaught contributed to this report. 

If you have an interesting story idea, email lifestyle reporter Andre Lamar at [email protected]. Consider signing up for his weekly newsletter, DO Delaware, at delawareonline.com/newsletters. 

This article originally appeared on Delaware News Journal: New at Delaware State Fair 2024: New food, free concerts and more