 Food vendor at Washington Parish Fair Grounds | |
| Address | Main Street, Franklinton, Louisiana 70438 |
|---|---|
| Location | Franklinton, Louisiana, US |
| Coordinates | 30°51′23″N 90°09′46″W / 30.8565°N 90.1628°W / 30.8565; -90.1628 |
| Type | Fairgrounds |
| Opened | 1911 |
| Website | |
| thefreefair | |
Washington Parish Fairgrounds in Franklinton, Louisiana, is known for hosting the Washington Parish Free Fair. The fair, dating back to 1911, is believed to be the largest county/parish free fair in the US and the second oldest in Louisiana. The fairgrounds feature a variety of attractions, including the Mile Branch Settlement, a collection of historic buildings illustrating rural life.
History
The first official Washington Parish Free Fair was held in 1911 at the fairgrounds, which have been the event's location since 1913. In 1976, the fairgrounds expanded to include structures typical of early homesteads in Washington Parish, moved here to save them from demolition. These include dogtrot houses, log cabins, barns, a shop, and a school, among others.
Features
The fairgrounds host a variety of attractions, including exhibits of flowers, homemaking, livestock, and agricultural products, as well as Old McDonald's Farm, a Midway, and a PRO Rodeo. The Mile Branch Settlement, an Authentic Historical Pioneer Village, is a significant feature, offering visitors a glimpse into 19th-century pioneer life in Louisiana. Two of the buildings, Knight Cabin and the Sylvest House, are listed on the National Register of Historic Places.
Events
The Washington Parish Free Fair, a family-oriented event, draws people from all over the country. It offers exhibits, a parade, a 5K run, and various stage activities, among other attractions.
References
- "Mile Branch Settlement". 64 Parishes. Retrieved 2023-12-08.
- Holdiness, Timothy (2023-10-13). "Prepare to pay to park at Free Fair in Franklinton". Retrieved 2023-12-08.
- "Washington Parish Fairgrounds". Country Roads Magazine. Retrieved 2023-12-08.