Visitors to The Great Allentown Fair on opening day Sept. 2 were greeted by overcast skies and a light mist, but the weather did not deter attendance. The opening ceremony at the Farmerama Theater drew local dignitaries, state officials and fair supporters.

The Brandywine Colonials Fife and Drum Corps of Topton opened the program with patriotic music, and the Allentown Fire Department honor guard presented the colors. Fadia Halma, Lehigh Valley regional director for the Pennsylvania Department of Community and Economic Development, served as master of ceremonies.

The invocation was given by Robert B. Heintzelman, a Lehigh County Agricultural Society director. Olivia Wisser, the 2025 Allentown Fair Queen, led the Pledge of Allegiance, and Kristin Morgenstern sang the national anthem.

Farmerama Theater filled steadily before the ceremony as fairgoers gathered for the traditional opening of one of the region’s largest annual events. Families, exhibitors and vendors moved throughout the fairgrounds.

Daryl Urmy, president of the Lehigh County Agricultural Society, welcomed visitors while dressed as Uncle Sam in recognition of the upcoming 250th anniversary of the United States. He encouraged guests to enjoy the fair’s agricultural exhibits, entertainment and community traditions.

Cassandra Coleman, executive director of the America250 PA Commission, spoke about Pennsylvania’s role in the nation’s founding and highlighted historical events that took place in the Lehigh Valley and across the commonwealth during the country’s early years. She also discussed preparations for activities commemorating the nation’s semiquincentennial.

Morgan Firestine, a representative of the Pennsylvania Department of Agriculture, presented the 2026 Friend of the Fair Award to Steve Heiland of Neffs. Heiland served as the fair’s principal sign and showcard artist for more than 30 years, creating many of the displays and promotional pieces seen throughout the fairgrounds over the decades.

The ceremony concluded with recognition of fair volunteers, supporters and longtime contributors before visitors dispersed to attractions across the grounds for the opening day festivities.

Morgan Firestine, a representative of the Pennsylvania Department of Agriculture, presented the 2026 Friend of the Fair Award to Steve Heiland of Neffs. Heiland served as the fair’s principal sign and showcard artist for more than 30 years.