BLACKFOOT, Idaho—From carnival rides and rodeos to deep-fried treats and prize-winning livestock, the Eastern Idaho State Fair is back this week, bringing thousands to Blackfoot for one of the region’s most beloved annual traditions.
This year marks the fair’s 123rd anniversary and will have one of the largest turnovers in its commercial vendors. However, all food concessionaires from last year will return, according to the General Fair Manager Brandon Bird.
“We invite everyone within the sound of my voice and maybe even beyond to come and feed your need for fun. Come and eat, drink and be happy, come and be happy together,” Bird said.
The fair’s entertainment lineup includes a concert with country star Dylan Scott, a performance by comedian Jeff Dunham and a night with the band Train.
“On our Big Dog Free Stage or our Agriculture West Free Stage, there's lots of free and community entertainment that's offered there throughout the days,” Bird said. “Some days there'll be 4-H horse competitions, horse pulling, lots of things. We'd recommend that you get online and see our calendar of events because there's so many.”
With humble beginnings as a livestock show in 1902, the fair has grown into a major annual tradition for families across Idaho.
“I hope they walk away with memories,” Bird said. “They make memories together with friends and family, and it's a unique experience that comes around once a year,”
The fair opens at 8 a.m. Friday. Adult gate admission is $9, youth gate tickets are $6, and children 5 and under enter free. For more details, including advance ticket pricing, visit the fair’s website.
“This year's theme is Saddle Up, and we invite everyone to saddle up and take a ride with us and have a good time at the fair,” Bird said.