Ridgeland Fair – “Where Old Friends Meet” Celebrating Community, Tradition, and Togetherness

Photo submitted by DMM Mick

By Betty Glaser

This year marks a special milestone as we proudly celebrate the 102^nd Anniversary of the Ridgeland Fair— a cherished local tradition that brings together families, friends, and neighbors for a weekend full of fun, festivities, and community spirit!

The celebration officially kicked off with the beloved Ms. Ridgeland Fair Queens Contest, where young women from the area compete not only for the crown, but for the honor of representing the heart and soul of Ridgeland. The contest celebrates poise, personality, and pride in our town's heritage — a perfect way to open our anniversary festivities.

From Friday, August 29, through Labor Day Monday, the Ridgeland Fair comes alive with four full days of fun, tradition, and hometown pride — offering something for every age and every interest.

This annual event is more than just a fair event. It’s a community celebration rooted in generations of local tradition. From the earliest planning stages to setting up grounds and running concession stands, the entire fair is a labor of love supported by volunteers, local organizations, families, and friends. It truly takes a village — and that village spirit is evident in every smiling face, hand-painted sign, and homemade pie.

Whether you're cheering at the demo derby, tapping your toes at the live music stage, admiring the horsepower at the tractor pulls, or watching little ones enjoy their first carnival ride — the Ridgeland Fair captures the essence of small-town America.

The fair’s motto, “Where Old Friends Meet,” rings true yearly as families reunite, neighbors catch up, and new friendships are formed. This end-of-summer tradition not only celebrates the season, but also serves as a heartfelt kickoff to the school year and a reminder of the strength and spirit of Ridgeland.

So come join us this Labor Day weekend, and experience the sights, sounds, and soul of the Ridgeland Fair — where memories are made, and where old friends (and new ones) always meet.