The Great Allentown Fair boasts more than 170 years of existence. The latest iteration of the event was held Aug. 27-Sept. 1 at Allentown Fairgrounds, 302 N. 17th St.

The event has always featured food entertainment, animal judging, musical performances by brass bands, horse racing and other activities, primarily with an agricultural focus.

The fair existed at the dawn of many inventions such as the zipper-style fastener, a rudimentary mechanical dishwasher, early sewing machines, the patenting of the charcoal iron and the Ballarat Hook, a safety device used in coal mining. There were no cars, airports, no common use of the flush toilet, no air conditioning and, certainly, no one-man bands.

Local musician Glenn Miller has entertained at the fair for more than 30 years. Miller bills himself as “the BIG one man band.” He provides a varied music performance using different instruments and refers to himself as “an entertainer, musician and clean comedy.”

The Glenn Miller Show also plays at corporate events, promotions, fairs, weddings and private parties. Miller is popular at local nursing and assisted living facilities. He said he has an affection for seniors and loves providing joy and putting smiles on the residents’ faces.

The Great Allentown Fair is one of his favorite venues. While not a headline act at the fair, Miller packs the space just outside the Agricultural Hall whenever he plays. He said he loves this fair because of its rich history and energy. When Miller performs at there, he feels part of something much larger than himself.

“I love the loyalty and family atmosphere,” Miller said, “and the fair’s staff are fantastic.”

His 3 p.m. performance time slot was greeted with all chairs and tables filled with fairgoers seeking fun musical and comedic entertainment. They were not disappointed.

Miller can be reached for a booking at 610-657-0803, glennsband@aol.com or his Facebook page.

The well-organized 2025 Great Allentown Fair had perfect weather, large crowds, high-quality entertainment, numerous of food vendors, many rides for kids, beautiful farm animals, agricultural plant and flower competitions and much more.