The Columbia County Fairgrounds, located in Chatham, New York, is a popular destination for tourists and locals alike. The fairgrounds host a variety of events throughout the year, including the Columbia County Fair, craft fairs, car shows, and more.
One of the main draws to the fairgrounds is the Columbia County Fair, which takes place in late August and features agricultural exhibits, carnival rides, live music, and a wide variety of food vendors. Other events at the fairgrounds include the annual Pumpkin Walk in October, which features thousands of illuminated pumpkins, and the Northeast Iron Pour, a unique art event that showcases the process of melting and pouring iron.
Visitors to the fairgrounds can also explore the historic buildings on the property, including the 19th-century Columbia County Agricultural Society Museum, which features exhibits on local farming history and memorabilia from past fairs.
Interesting facts about the area include that the fairgrounds have been in operation since the mid-19th century and were once used as a Civil War training ground. The fairgrounds have also been used as a filming location for several movies, including the 2014 film "The Humbling" starring Al Pacino.
The best time of year to visit the Columbia County Fairgrounds depends on individual interests, but the Columbia County Fair in late August is a popular choice for families and those interested in agriculture and carnival rides. Other events, such as craft fairs and car shows, take place throughout the year and can be found on the fairgrounds' website.