Chemung County Fairgrounds: My Go-To Spot for Fresh Local Finds in Horseheads

Introduction

As someone who’s called the Finger Lakes region home for years, I’ve stumbled upon hidden gems that make everyday outings feel special. One such place is the Chemung County Fairgrounds in Horseheads. Nestled at 170 Fairview Road, this sprawling venue isn’t just for the annual fair it’s a hub for community gatherings, animal shows, and yes, a vibrant farmers market that draws me back every summer Saturday. Picture this: the scent of ripe tomatoes mingling with handmade soap, kids chasing each other around the open fields, and that satisfying crunch of a just-picked apple. Whether you’re hunting for seasonal produce or simply soaking in the local vibe, the Chemung County Fairgrounds offers a slice of rural charm right in Chemung County. Join me as I share what makes this spot so irresistible, from market stalls to practical tips drawn from my own visits.

Chemung County Fairgrounds Hours And Days

Tuesday	9 AM–11 PM
Wednesday	9 AM–11 PM
Thursday	9 AM–11 PM
Friday	9 AM–11 PM
Saturday	9 AM–11 PM
Sunday	9 AM–11 PM
Monday	9 AM–11 PM

Complete Market Details

Market Name	Address	Opening Hours	Frequency	Ticket Information	Contact Number or Email	Parking & Transportation Info	Vendor Registration Link
Chemung Valley Farmers Market	170 Fairview Rd, Horseheads, NY 14845	9 AM–11 PM	Weekly during the summer season	Free admission;	(607) 734-1217	Ample free on-site parking; easily accessible via Route 17	Contact (607) 734-1217 for application details

Parking, Tickets & Transportation

Getting to the Chemung County Fairgrounds is a breeze, which is one reason I keep returning. The venue boasts plenty of free parking spaces scattered across its expansive lots I’ve never circled for more than a minute, even on busier market days. If you’re driving in from Elmira or beyond, hop on Route 17 and exit at Horseheads; signs guide you straight to Fairview Road. No tickets needed for the farmers market it’s open to everyone, no cost at the gate. That said, during larger events like horse shows, a small fee might apply, so peek at the Chemung County Fairgrounds website ahead of time. Public transport is limited here, but a quick rideshare from downtown Elmira gets you there affordably. Once parked, the flat, open grounds make it easy to stroll with a wagon full of goodies.

Vendor Information

One of the joys of the Chemung Valley Farmers Market at the Chemung County Fairgrounds is chatting with the folks who grow and craft what you’re buying. Over my visits, I’ve met farmers like the ones from Parker’s Farm Market, offering everything from crisp broccoli to homemade cider donuts that disappear faster than I can say “second helping.” Highlights include stalls bursting with fresh fruits and vegetables think heirloom tomatoes, sweet corn, and seasonal squashes plus local meats, eggs, and baked goods. Artisan vendors add flair with custom jewelry, herbal blends, jams, and jellies that make perfect gifts. If you’re a vendor looking to join, reach out to the Chemung County Agricultural Society at (607) 734-1217. They handle applications seasonally, keeping fees reasonable to support small producers. It’s this mix of homegrown and handmade that turns a simple shopping trip into a supportive community loop.

Tips for First Timers

My first trip to the Chemung County Fairgrounds for the market taught me a few lessons worth passing on. Arrive early around 10 AM to snag the best picks before popular items like fresh-baked bread sell out. Bring reusable bags and a cooler for perishables; the summer sun can sneak up on you. Cash is king at most stalls, though some accept cards, so have small bills ready for that impulse buy on wildflower honey. Wear comfortable shoes the grounds are mostly gravel and grass, perfect for wandering but not for heels. If you’re with kids, pack a picnic blanket; the open spaces invite impromptu play. And don’t forget sunscreen and water the fresh air and friendly faces make time fly, but staying hydrated keeps the fun going strong.

Why Chemung County Fairgrounds is a Must-Visit

I remember one humid August Saturday when the air hummed with cicadas and laughter echoed from the market stalls. That’s the magic of the Chemung County Fairgrounds it pulls you into the rhythm of local life. Beyond the farmers market, the grounds host recurring events like harness racing every few weekends and craft fairs in the fall, all set against 100 acres of rolling fields. I’ve watched my niece pet rabbits at a 4-H show, haggled over the price of zucchini (successfully, I might add), and even caught a demolition derby under the stars. What sets it apart is the authenticity: no chains here, just neighbors sharing stories over heirloom beans. For anyone craving connection in Chemung County, this fairgrounds isn’t just a stop it’s a heartbeat of the community, fostering everything from farm-fresh meals to lasting memories.

Instagram-worthy Market Moments

The Chemung County Fairgrounds begs for your camera, especially on market days. Head to the produce row where vibrant pyramids of peppers and eggplants create a rainbow backdrop snap a flat lay with your haul for that effortless farm-to-table vibe. The artisan jewelry stalls near Gate 3 offer close-ups of intricate wire-wrapped stones glinting in the sun. Don’t miss the grandstands for a wide-shot panorama: stalls dotting the foreground, horses grazing in the distance, all framed by the blue Finger Lakes sky. As the day winds down, catch golden-hour light filtering through the barns perfect for a candid of a vendor packing up, evoking that nostalgic end-of-summer feel. These spots have turned my feed into a love letter to local living, one filtered frame at a time.

Chemung County Fairgrounds
(View on Google-Map)

FAQs:

Final Thoughts

Every visit to the Chemung County Fairgrounds reminds me why I cherish these local anchors they weave us together through shared tastes and tales. Whether you’re loading up on weekend meal staples or just browsing for inspiration, this Horseheads haven delivers. Grab your tote, mark your calendar for the next Saturday, and dive into the fresh energy waiting at 170 Fairview Road. What’s your favorite fairgrounds find? I’d love to hear drop a comment below and let’s keep the conversation growing.