Enjoy all the activities at the Franklin County Fair in Malone. (Photo provided — Diane Chase)

There are a variety of Adirondack activities that focus on family fun. Hiking, biking and swimming around the Adirondacks are just some our favorites. Though being in nature is gift we are grateful for, we also enjoy the simple act of a county fair. Eating cotton candy and enjoying a traveling carnival is one activity that seems to sum-up summertime while bringing out the child in all of us.

The Franklin County and Essex County Fairs both have lengthy histories for continuing to improve and promote area agriculture and horticulture.

Malone’s Franklin County Fair was first established in 1820, but found its permanent home in 1851. It is the largest annual, long-standing fair in the North Country, with only one-year off during the Civil War. For 168 years, the Franklin County Agricultural Society has continued their purpose of improving agriculture, horticulture, and the mechanical arts. During the past 30 years they have expanded their vision to include top musical performances. All profits earned continue to be used to erect new buildings, improve the 35-acre grounds, and increase exhibits and attractions.

Located on Main Street, the Franklin County Fair is open from Aug. 3-12, 8 a.m. to 10 p.m. daily. Gate fees range from $6 to 8, depending on the day. Children (ages 12 and younger) are free. The fee includes nonticketed Grandstand events and exhibitions. Carnival rides and ticketed Grandstand events are not included. The Society sells half-price price ride tickets (A sheet of 20 tickets can be purchased for $10) until opening day at the fair office and at the local Kinney Drugs. Call 518-483-0720 or check the web at www.frcofair.com for additional locations. On opening day and throughout the week the ride tickets will be only sold onsite for the regular fee.

On the Adirondack Coast, The Essex County Fair will be holding its 170th event this Aug. 15-19, 2018 in Westport. The daily general admission is $10, which includes most shows, parking, and carnival rides. Children (ages 3 and under) are free, but not allowed on the rides without a wristband.

The Essex County Fair was organized in 1848 and started as the Essex-Clinton County Fair in Port Kent. The emphasis even then was on horse racing. It then moved from Keeseville to Elizabethtown before ending up in Westport, where it has remained since 1865. For a full schedule go to essexcountyfair.org.

The true roots of these county fairs are their agricultural beginnings. Poultry, rabbits, and horses are just a few of the animals on display. Every day patrons can go through the animal barn, experience a petting zoo, and see all the hard-earned ribbons and awards.

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Diane Chase is the author of the Adirondack Family Activities guidebook series, Adirondack Family Time: Your Four-Season Guide to Over 300 Activities.” For more

family-friendly activities go to www.AdirondackFamily

Time.com.