Worcester County earned a 2026 National Association of Counties (NACo) Achievement Award for revitalizing a longstanding community tradition and helping position it for a more sustainable future.

The Revitalized and Reimagined Worcester County Fair earned recognition in NACo’s Arts, Culture and Historic Preservation category.

Faced with declining participation and challenges surrounding the Fair’s site, Worcester County took on a greater leadership role in organizing the 2024 event. The County provided both financial and in-kind support to help stabilize operations, enhance programming, and expand opportunities for community participation. Through Worcester County Recreation and Parks, the County also helped establish the Friends of the Worcester County Fair, strengthening the volunteer network that supports the event and laying the foundation for its long-term sustainability.

The effort helped preserve the Fair as a signature countywide event while continuing to celebrate Worcester County’s agricultural heritage and bring the community together.

This honor is part of 165 NACo Achievement Awards earned by Maryland counties this year, recognizing programs and services across nearly every area of local government.