In 1919, local residents held several meetings to discuss establishing a fair, and on January 12, 1920, the Kent and Sussex County Fair Association was organized to promote and encourage agriculture and to give pleasures and diversions to inhabitants of rural communities. The first fair was held in July 1920. In 1962, this annual event was renamed the Delaware State Fair to reflect its popularity and statewide appeal. The grounds have also been used for a wide variety of activities and events, including housing German prisoners during World War II and beginning regular pari-mutuel harness racing in 1946.