Located in the Eastern part of the state, near the Ohio border, lies the city of Connersville, Indiana.  The city hosts the Fayette County Free Fair, which includes Harness Racing in its many yearly fair attractions.  

The fair has been an event in Connersville for over 100 years and is the oldest "free fair" in Indiana.  Held annually in Roberts Park, the fairground features an amphitheater built into the hillside, overlooking the half-mile racing oval.

In 1902, Col. James Roberts donated the land which is the site of the fair to the city of Connersville.  The land was named in honor of its donor and became known as Roberts Park.  Except for the two weeks surrounding the fair dates, the area is operated as a city park.  Since the original land donation, the Fair Board purchased acreage adjacent to the park, as additional space for the fair.

It is interesting to note Col. Roberts stipulated in his will the the fair must be "Free" and "Harness Racing is to be included in the fair program".  

Lacking lights for night racing, the Fayette County Fair is known for its late afternoon racing.  Post time is generally set at 4:00 p.m. For additional information about racing at the fair, contact race secretary Richard Link at (765) 827-4543.

Thank you to Mary Link for providing information about the Fayette County Free Fair!