The Baltimore County 4-H Fair was first held in 1964 at the Eudowood Plaza Shopping Center near Towson, Maryland. The Fair was the vision of 4-H Extension Agent Normal Smith and 4-H Leaders who saw it as an opportunity for the 4-H youth of Baltimore County to showcase their non-animal project work as well as livestock exhibits. After this successful 4-H Fair, the event was moved to the Maryland State Fairgrounds where it has continued to be held. In 1965, a Fair Board was formed to plan and organize the event. Mr. William Langlotz of Hereford Maryland, served at the first Fair Board President. Mr. Langlotz continues to be an active 4-H Fair supporter.

In the early years, 4-H livestock were housed in open air barns on the Maryland State Fairgrounds. Later, these barns were replaced by an indoor arena now known as the Cow Palace.