Everything you need to know about the Maryland State Fair

It’s late summer, which means it’s Maryland State Fair season. The annual fair held in Baltimore County is returning for its 143rd installment, featuring carnival rides, animal shows — think alpacas and goats — and agricultural education. This year, the storied fair is scheduled for three weekends: Aug. 22-25, Aug. 29-Sept. 2 and Sept. 5-8. Gates open at 5 p.m. on Thursdays and 9 a.m. every other day.