Step Back in Time at Marathon’s 1890 Union Fair
Every first Saturday in September, Main Street in Marathon, New York, bursts to life with the 1890 Union Fair. This family-friendly festival is a celebration of small-town charm, time-honored traditions, and local history. Now that I call Marathon home, it’s an event I look forward to all year long, and this year it all happens on September 6.
The Union Fair has deep roots in Marathon. First organized in 1879 by the Union Agricultural Society, it ran into the early 1900s before taking a long pause. In 1984, the community brought it back, and since then it’s grown into one of Cortland County’s most unique celebrations. Today, the Union Fair blends heritage, agriculture, food, and fun into a one-day festival unlike anything else in Upstate New York.
The Parade at High Noon
The highlight of my day is always the parade. It's heralded as one of New York's only all horse (or sometimes peddle) powered parades. Held at noon, it’s arguably the star of the fair. Where else do you get to see horses and carriages decked out in historical garb trotting down Main Street like they have stepped straight out of the 1800s? Or an Oxen, who performs ticks! The littlest riders always steal the show, pedaling bikes festooned with streamers and flowers, grinning wide, and wobbling just enough to keep the crowd on edge. It’s equal parts adorable and impressive and certainly not to be missed.
A Little Friendly Rivalry
The exhibits in the Civic Center are a real treat. Farmers, gardeners, bakers—everyone brings their best to the veggie, floral, and preserves competitions. There’s plenty of pride on the line, but it is all in good fun. The ribbons are coveted, but so are the bragging rights. I love watching neighbors rib each other over who brought the tallest sunflower, the juiciest tomato, or the most perfect pie crust. Alongside the competitions, you’ll also find the annual quilt and apron show (always a crowd favorite) and this year’s special exhibit highlighting local antique farm implements, a nod to the area’s agricultural roots.
Old Fashioned Fun & Games
By late morning, the games kick off. At 10:30 am the kids line up for sack races, three-legged races, and wheelbarrow dashes on the green near the Maple Museum. It is always a hoot to watch. New this year is the baby crawl for our youngest competors. I predict a whole lot of chaos and giggles.
Later in the afternoon, the old-fashioned hoe-down kicks off. Square dancing, live music, and nonstop laughter make it a new tradition you don’t want to miss. No need to know the steps, the caller will keep you on track (mostly).
Step Inside Marathon’s Museums for a Day of Discovery
One of the things I love most about the 1890 Union Fair is that all of Marathon’s museums are free and open to the public during the festival.
- The Marathon Area Historical Society Museum always hosts a new special exhibit, and this year features a Penny Candy Store that will delight kids and adults alike.
- The One Room Schoolhouse lets you step back into the days of chalkboards and inkwells.
- The Maple Museum tells the story of local sugaring and offers maple syrup, maple candies, and other maple goodies, perfect for souvenirs.
Touring these spaces feels like hitting rewind on history and you don’t even need a time machine.
When Horsepower Really Means Horse Power
After the parade ends, I always find a spot for the Tom Smith Memorial Horse Pull at 1:30 pm. Watching enormous draft horses pull hundreds of pounds across the field will leave you flabbergasted. I usually pack a picnic, but if you come empty-handed you are in luck. Mrs. Tilley’s will be serving up fried dough, blooming onions, french fries, and snow cones, while the American Legion grills hamburgers, hot dogs, and Italian sausages to fill your bellies.
Bi-Annual Book Sale
The Peck Memorial Library book sale, held inside the historic opera house is a must. For just $5 you can fill a bag with books—perfect for stocking up for upcoming cold, winter nights. I, myself, usually end up with two brimming bags. Even if you are not a reader, the building itself is worth the visit. It is a unique opportunity to wander the old opera house, with its ornate ceilings and stained-glass windows. It's one of Cortland County’s best-kept secrets and definitely worth exploring.
Going Once, Going Twice!
As always, the day always ends with the Union Fair Auction. At 3:30 pm the civic building fills up with both locals and visitors alike, all vying for best in show baked goods. This is your chance to bid on blue-ribbon pies, cookies, jars of jam, bouquets and fresh produce. I always bring a little extra cash because the proceeds go toward supporting next year’s fair. It feels good to leave with a big jar of homemade pickles, knowing you are helping keep this tradition alive.
Why You Shouldn't Miss the 1890 Union Fair
With so many reasons to love the 1890 Union Fair in Marathon, NY, it’s hard to narrow it down to just a few. From horse pulls to historic displays, fried dough to maple candy, every part of this Cortland County tradition feels special. The best part? It’s a FREE, family-friendly event, that happens rain or shine. You never know, it just might become your new favorite tradition.
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