It’s Fair Time!

Caramel apples, Ferris wheels and buckin’ broncs. Summer just wouldn’t be complete without a trip to the county fair. From pig wrestling to 4-H and FFA, Southern Idaho folks know how to pull off this traditional treat.

Note: This story was published in 2008. Dates listed below are subject to change. Please visit each county’s website for current information.

LINCOLN COUNTY FAIR

July 23, 2011 – July 30, 2011
Lincoln County Fairgrounds, Shoshone

This county event typically kicks-off the fair season in Southern Idaho, says Fair Board Chairwoman Holly R. Cook.
“We’re just a really small county but our fair is really great,” she says.
The fairground’s rodeo arena is scheduled for evening events throughout the week. While team roping and bull riding are always crowd pleasers, the annual pig wrestling competition on Wednesday is the one event county residents don’t miss.
“We have divisions for kids, men, women; really anyone who wants to wrestle a pig, can,” Cook says. “The object is to grab your pig in a pile of mud and put it into a barrel. It’s all about who’s bigger, faster and better – and it’s a lot of fun to watch.”
The fair also touts a backhoe rodeo, to be held Monday night, where local construction companies vie to see who can lift a fragile, small object, like an egg or balloon, in a beat-the-clock, edge-of-your-seat competition.
For more information, call 208-886-2406 or visit their FACEBOOK page

CAMAS COUNTY FAIR

August 4, 2011 – August 7, 2011
Fairfield

Activities include 4-H competitions, livestock show and sale, bike race, and volleyball tournament. Sunday’s music in the park will feature Mark Hansen, Jason Lugo & Jennifer Garcia.
The fair’s parade on Saturday is probably the only parade that you get to see both sides – it passes once, then turns around at the end of the route and comes back again. Make sure to bring a large sack for all the candy!

Don’t get caught snoozing during this fair’s famous bed races. Competitors tuck themselves in and hold on for a thrilling and entertaining race down Main Street. The best time in each heat moves on and the fastest team earns the coveted prize. A rodeo has recently been added to the list of events so see their website for detail.
“The fair is the biggest thing all year,” says Connie Funkhouser, Fair Board Secretary. “We’re a small community, but during the fair a lot of people come to town. There’s lots of stuff to do.”
For more information, call 208-764-2230.  http://www.fairfieldidaho.net/

BLAINE COUNTY FAIR

August 10, 2011 – 13th, 2011
Blaine County Fairgrounds, Carey, Idaho

This fair includes a variety of events to awake the kid in you. From exhibits with baked goods, produce, candy, flowers, hobbies and more, to sweet treats and great eats throughout the grounds, the Blaine County Fair has a sampling of it all.
For those enjoying the night life, attend the night time dance and karaoke party.
Competitions at the fair include a two-day horse show, llama show, archery shoot and a recently added equestrian contest asks riders to demonstrate specific, skillful maneuvers.
Kids are invited to take part in the “Baby Bottle Brigade” – a parade with animals being bottle fed.
For more information, call 208-788-5585 or 208-788-2852
Website

JEROME COUNTY FAIR

August 6, 2011 – August 13, 2011
Jerome County Fairgrounds, Jerome

A hometown and friendly feel could be the best draw of the Jerome County Fair. With plenty of vendors, a carnival, and youth 4-H and FFA competitions and achievements this eventful week draws thousands of people every day.
“The Jerome County Fair is a good place to come and get away from reality. We’re small enough to not feel crowded, but have plenty to do to stay entertained and have a great time,” says Syndney Diederich, who works in the fair office.

You don’t miss the Junior Rodeo and pig wrestling. All ages, up to 14 years old, will saddle up for barrel races and pole bending. That night, up to 75 teams will contend to be named the Pig-Grappling Champ of Jerome County!

“If you’re old enough to jump in there, you can do it. You just have to get your pig in the barrel first,” Diederich says. “Spots fill up fast, and we are signing up teams (of four people) for the event.”
Other highlights include: Bull fighting series, amusements, petting zoo, chainsaw carvings, free stage shows, 4-H and open events, Junior Rodeo, Carnival, Demolition Derby and an Antique Tractor Pull.
For more information call 208-324-7209 or visit their WEBSITE

MINIDOKA COUNTY FAIR

August 1, 2011 – August 6, 2011
Minidoka County Fairgrounds, Rupert

Lawnmower races, anyone? This fair doesn’t save the best for last; rather, they pull out what Minidoka residents prepare for all year long – the annual lawnmower races at the Grandstand Arena.
“Everybody gets their riding lawnmower souped up for the races,” says Fair Office Secretary Leann Smith. “The races are our signature event and a lot of fun to watch.”
And it’s even for a good cause: The donated entry fee is given to the county fire department.

On Friday night, don’t miss the Mutton Bustin’ competition and be sure to cheer on your favorite lil’ buckaroo!
The fair week wraps up with another ceremony you don’t want to miss: the crowing of this year’s Grandma Queen. Since 1988, the fair board has sought nominations for – and crowned – the community’s best grandmother. The winner receives a belt buckle, rocking chair, banner and a dozen roses.
For more information call 208-436-9748. or visit their WEBSITE

CASSIA COUNTY FAIR

August 15, 2011 – August 20, 2011
Cassia County Fairgrounds, Burley

This fair is more like a family reunion, says Fair Manager Cory Parish, even though some 30,000 people will attend it.
“Vendors at this fair say they have more steady foot traffic and are busier here than at other fairs. It’s still free to get into the fair so people come and go all week. Our fair isn’t one you go to just once, you come again and again,” Parish says.
On Tuesday August 16th, catch Darryl Worley in concert along with special guests Jason Lugo Band. A parade along Burley’s Overland Avenue will top off the week; if you can’t come to the fair, it will come to you!
For more information call 208-678-9150.

GOODING COUNTY FAIR

August 15, 2011 – August 20, 2011
Gooding County Fairgrounds, Gooding

Move over carnies, this fair is all about the rodeo. While the fair provides the staples for daily entertainment like animal shows, food booths and a carnival, it’s the rodeo that packs in a crowd. While every fair has a yearly theme,
“We’re a small fair. It’s still a place where you can turn your kids loose and not have to worry,” says Fair Manager Don Gill. “But, our big thing is the rodeo. It was voted the best small rodeo in the PRCA Wilderness Circuit in 2004 and 2007.”
This year they are bringing in three stock contractors and will again host the annual rodeo “old-timers” dinner and reunion.
“We have hundreds of old cowboys that come every year to catch up,” Gill says. “It’s a lot of fun.”
For pricing and ticket information, visit www.goodingprorodeo.com.

TWIN FALLS COUNTY FAIR

August 31, 2011 – September 5, 2011
Twin Falls County Fairgrounds, Filer

Southern Idaho’s largest county fair is celebrating its 95th year. There are plenty of country things going on. Traditional events such as the famous PRCA Rodeo, Inland Empire/ Royal West midway, 4-H competition, Destruction Derby and Concert. Plus the return of attractions like Fair photo contest. Family Entertainment, Daily Entertainment, PRCA Rodeo, Vendor Booths and so many more attractions will make the Twin Falls County Fair the place to be!

This year’s Fair promises to be a week filled with endless thrills, great food and countless memories for all. Hope to see you there!
For pricing, tickets and detailed information visit www.tfcfair.com or call (208) 326-4398.

ELMORE COUNTY FAIR

July 11, 2011 – July 16, 2011
Elmore County Fair Grounds – Glenns Ferry

Phone Number: (208) 587-2136 – WEBSITE