Topsfield is home to the renowned Topsfield Fair which bills itself out as the oldest county fair in America. Launched in 1818 by the Essex County Agricultural Society, the Fair was originally designed as a one-day cattle show. The goal was to showcase agriculture and educate both the public and the local farming community as it provided farmers with a forum to share thoughts and ideas. In a typical year, the fair attracts nearly half a million people over the course of 10 days. The Fair features a large midway, an arena that hosts events throughout the year, as well as many agricultural exhibitions.