County Fair Adventures Await
As July arrives, the county fair season is just around the corner! Across the Southwind Extension District, our communities are preparing for weeks filled with tradition, friendly competition, family fun, and the opportunity to celebrate the accomplishments of our local 4-H members and agricultural community.
The fair season begins with the Bourbon County Fair, themed “Take a Dive into the Bourbon County Fair,” from July 11-18. Be sure to stop by the Vendor Marts in the Merchants Building, open July 14-16 from 5:00 to 8:00 p.m., where you’ll find local businesses, organizations, and unique products to explore while enjoying all the excitement the fair has to offer.
Next up is the Woodson County Fair, “There’s No Time Like Fair Time,” taking place July 17-20. Throughout the week, visitors can enjoy livestock shows, exhibits, entertainment, and community activities. Before the fair concludes on Monda[WH1.1]y, July 20, stop by on Sunday, July 19th, for a free community breakfast from 7:00 to 8:00 am right before the sheep and goat show starts at 9:00 am, providing the perfect opportunity to gather with friends, neighbors, and fair supporters before another successful fair.
The fun continues at the Neosho County Fair, “Surf in the USA,” from July 23-27. Be sure to attend the always-popular Celebrity Showmanship on July 25 at 7:00 p.m. or test your skills during the Horseshoe Tournament on Sunday, July 26, at 10:00 a.m. Visitors are also encouraged to bring a canned food item each time they attend the fair to support the community food drive led by the Neosho County 4-H Clubs in partnership with Neosho County Farm Bureau.[WH2.1][WH2.2][KH2.3][WH2.4][KH2.5]
Also taking place, the week of July 21-26 is the Allen County Fair, “Take a Walk on the Wild Side.” Families won’t want to miss the Baby Barnyard, open Thursday through Saturday, where children and adults alike can get an up-close look at a variety of farm animals. While you’re there, be sure to visit the exhibit buildings and observe the 4-H members proudly showcasing the projects they worked on throughout the year.
County fairs are much more than summer entertainment—they celebrate agriculture, youth leadership, volunteerism, and community pride. For many 4-H members, the fair represents the culmination of months of learning, hard work, and dedication. Their exhibits highlight skills developed throughout the year in areas such as livestock, photography, foods and nutrition, clothing and textiles, woodworking, horticulture, visual arts, robotics, and many other project areas.
Whether you’re cheering on exhibitors in the show ring, browsing handmade exhibits, visiting local vendors, or simply enjoying an evening with family and friends, county fairs create lasting memories while bringing communities together. They remind us of the importance of supporting our local youth, celebrating agriculture, and preserving traditions passed down for generations.
This July, make plans to visit one (or all four) county fairs across the Southwind Extension District. We look forward to seeing you there as we celebrate another memorable fair season together!
Kendal Henson is a Kansas State Extension 4-H & Youth Development agent assigned to the Southwind District. He may be reached at [email protected] or 620-625-8620. Kansas State Extension is an equal opportunity provider and employer.