For information about the MOTHER EARTH NEWS FAIR ONLINE, visit our ONLINE FAQ page.

What is the MOTHER EARTH NEWS FAIR?

The MOTHER EARTH NEWS FAIR is a fun-filled, family-oriented sustainable lifestyle event featuring practical, hands-on demos, and workshops. Learn about renewable energy, small-scale agriculture, livestock, gardening, green building, natural health, and more. We also hand-select local and national exhibitors to bring you the best in organic food and drink, books and magazines, tools and seeds, green contractors, animal fibers, clothing, and more. The first MOTHER EARTH NEWS FAIR was held in Seven Springs, Pa., in September 2010. There are four FAIRS scheduled for 2021: Pennsylvania and Texas. While these dates are tentative, pending the resumption of large in-person gatherings, we are optimistic that they will take place!

Also in 2021, participants from all over the world can take part in our newly established online learning program. At it’s core, MOTHER EARTH NEWS FAIR ONLINE features 24 courses and growing on a wide range of topics with dozens of new courses in the works! For this program, we’re using the Teachable platform. Each course features prerecorded video workshops hosted by the esteemed experts that make up the MOTHER EARTH NEWS FAIR family, along with supporting materials and handouts. Each course averages 3.5 hours. 

Do I have to pay to attend workshops?

Entrance to most workshops is included in the cost of your pass, however hands-on workshops require an extra ticket that can be purchased in advance.

We offer an All-Access subscription to our online courses for as little as $2.99/month.

Do I have to sign up to attend workshops?

No. Seating is first come, first served! You can also purchase a preferred seating pass, which provides access to seating in the first two rows at stage presentations. 

I don’t see the location I am looking for. Are you coming back to my location this year?

All of the locations for this year have been posted. There are many factors that go into the schedule for the Fairs each year, including whether or not to return to certain locations and geographic regions. Those issues include venue availability (you would be surprised how limited this can be), internal schedules, support from local government, just to name a few. And, of course, 2021 dates and locations have been impacted by the pandemic.

As for previous locations in Oregon, North Carolina, Washington, and Wisconsin it is very possible that we will return some time in the future. Thank you for your understanding.

Should I bring my kids with me to the FAIR?

Absolutely! Kids 17 and under get in free, and each FAIR hosts fun and free kids’ programming.

Can I drop off my kids at the Kids’ Treehouse Stage?

The FAIR is a family event and we encourage you to spend time with yours. The Kids’ Treehouse Stage is not a child care service, children must be accompanied by an adult at all times.

What forms of payment do you accept at the gate?

The FAIR accepts cash, credit cards, and debit cards.

How much does it cost to get in?

Please check our registration page for current prices.

Do you offer any discounts on wristbands?

We sure do! We currently offer a discount for registering in advance. For access to exclusive offers, sign up for the FAIR e-newsletter, MOTHER EARTH NEWS LIVE.

If I purchase a weekend wristband, can I go one day and let a friend go the next day?

We want your friends to come to the FAIR, but weekend passes cannot be shared.

I bought my wristband in advance. Do I have to wait in line to get into the FAIR?

When you purchase wristbands in advance, you will receive them in the mail as long as they are ordered prior to posted ship-by deadline on the order page. Simply secure it to one wrist and display it to the attendant as you enter the FAIR. 

When will the FAIR schedule be available?

We work hard to bring you the best FAIR possible. It takes a bit of time, but we aim to have the workshop and demonstration schedules posted at least 60 days before each FAIR.

I want to help out at the FAIR, what should I do?

We’d be happy to have you! Contact us to learn about what jobs are available and what perks you will receive.

Are cameras allowed at the FAIR?

Yes! However, please be respectful when taking pictures or recording video. If in doubt, ask permission.

Can I bring my own food and drinks to the FAIR?

Yes. Feel free to bring a reusable water bottle, snacks for people with dietary restrictions, etc. We also have many meal and snack vendors at the FAIR for when your stomach starts grumbling.

How can I exhibit at the FAIR?

Please visit our exhibitor information page for more information. Click here to apply to exhibit.

I have a suggestion for a workshop topic or presenter. Who should I contact?

Please contact the FAIR via this form and we’ll be sure to look into your suggestion.

What are the dates and locations of the FAIR?

FAIR dates and locations can be found at the top of each page. Directions to the venues, hotels and campsites to stay at, and more can be found on each location’s information page.

What are the FAIR hours?

We’d love to be open 24/7, but currently all FAIRs are open Saturday: 9:00 a.m. – 6:00 p.m. and Sunday: 9:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m. The Pennsylvania FAIR is open during normal FAIR hours as well as Friday 12:00 p.m. – 6:00 p.m.

Can I camp at the FAIR location?

Sorry, neither location in 2021 provide on-site camping.

Are the Fairgrounds handicap-accessible?

Of course, the FAIR is for everyone! 

Where is the lost and found?

We will protect your valuables at the information desk until you come to claim them.

Can I bring my dog?

Look, we love dogs. However, we respect the fact that not everyone can be around our furry, fun companions. Since we try to accommodate everyone at the FAIRs we request that, unless you have a certified service animal, you leave your dog at home or boarded. Please help us in abiding by this policy.

What is the FAIR’s smoking policy?

Smoking is only allowed in designated areas.

The FAQ didn’t have the answer to my question. Who should I contact?

Please contact the FAIR via this form, or call customer care at 1-800-234-3368.