Everything You Need to Know Before Heading to the Fairhaven Homecoming Fair

Fairhaven's Homecoming Day Fair truly has something for everyone. Held on the last Saturday in June, the Homecoming Day Fair has roots stretching back to 1903.

This year's celebration is Saturday, June 27, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

The sponsoring organization is the Fairhaven Improvement Association. Committee member Barbara Acksen stopped by Townsquare Sunday to talk about the history of the Homecoming Day Fair in Fairhaven and what's on tap for this year.

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A SouthCoast Tradition Since 1903

"The original Old Home Fair in 1903 was a major undertaking," Acksen said. "It was a five-day event featuring church services, sports events, more than one parade, concerts, and steamboat rides up and down the Acushnet River."

Acksen said the fair gradually became a smaller event, and for a time did not happen at all. It was revived in 1975, during the 200th birthday of the United States. Since then, barring bad weather or the COVID pandemic, the Homecoming Fair has continued on under the sponsorship of the Fairhaven Improvement Association.

Fairhaven Improvement Association via Facebook

Crafts, Live Music, and Family Activities for 2026

This year's fair, which happens in the center of Fairhaven in the area around the town hall, will include more than 150 craft vendors, delicious food, non-stop live music outside town hall, kids' games, fire engine rides, and a growing art exhibit on the lawn of the Unitarian Church.

"We have a number of new artists contributing to the exhibit this year," Acksen said. "It's always exciting to have new artists. The material ranges from paintings, oil paintings, water colors, mixed media, and sculpture. That also runs from 10 to 4 and several prizes will be awarded."

Fairhaven Improvement Association via Facebook

Fairhaven High School Alumni Weekend Events

Fairhaven Alumni groups also play a big part in the Homecoming weekend, raising a giant "Stars and Stripes" on Friday evening, conducting tours of "old" Fairhaven High School, and holding a Hall of Fame event on Sunday.

"I think this weekend is special," Acksen said. "People seem to really care about the fair. Some describe it as 'Christmas in Fairhaven!' It's an opportunity for people to get together and really enjoy the beauty of our town and each other."

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