Topsfield Fair ticket scam has organizers, police warning guests about America's oldest fair
TOPSFIELD - Scammers are targeting America's oldest fair. Some people have been tricked into buying fake tickets to the Topsfield Fair online.
The fair, which is a fall tradition for many in Massachusetts, requires guests to buy a ticket to enter the main gate. That ticket gives you access to the grounds, exhibits, concerts and more. They cost $15 each.
Topsfield Fair ticket scam
Earlier this week, the fair's general manager, James O'Brien, started getting calls from people who bought additional tickets online for events in the fair's arena. They were planning to see bands like Three Dog Night and 38 Special.
The trouble is you don't need an extra ticket to see events in the arena. It's covered in the cost of your admission.
"I was extremely disappointed because I feel that our patrons work hard for their money," O'Brien told WBZ-TV. "I don't want anyone to be cheated. We are all about value. We are selling $15 pre-fair tickets."
Topsfield Police posted a picture of the fake website on their social media pages warning, "All Topsfield Fair tickets from this site are fraudulent, as the Topsfield Fair is not selling tickets to get into the Arena."
Tickets for the Topsfield Fair are sold on their website, TopsfieldFair.org, or in-person at the fairgrounds and nowhere else.
Fake Topsfield Fair tickets up to $99
O'Brien said some people spent between $69 and $99 for the fake tickets. It's money that is nearly impossible to recover.
With the fair opening on October 4, there's an added urgency to make sure people aren't falling for the scam.
"We are a New England fair," said O'Brien. "We have been here for over 206 years. That's a lot of reputation that we wouldn't want to be tarnished over something like this."