Summer in Jefferson County officially reaches its peak next week when the Jefferson County Fair and Rodeo opens its gates at the Jefferson County Event Complex in Madras. This year's fair runs July 22 through 25, with Facebook posts from the fairgrounds suggesting events may begin as early as July 21 for some activities.

The fair is one of the longest-running community traditions in Central Oregon, drawing families, ranchers, farmers, and visitors from across the region to the 50-acre fairgrounds on Fairgrounds Road. For many Jefferson County families, it's the one weekend of the year that brings the entire community together under one roof — or at least under the same summer sky.

What's on the Agenda

This year's fair features the full slate of traditional events and attractions:

  • Livestock shows: Cattle, sheep, goats, swine, and poultry judging — the heart of the agricultural fair experience
  • 4-H and FFA exhibits: Youth from across Jefferson County will showcase months of project work in everything from sewing and cooking to animal husbandry
  • Rodeo: Fan-favorite events including bull riding, barrel racing, and roping across multiple sessions
  • Carnival rides: Midway attractions for all ages
  • Live entertainment: Music and performances scheduled throughout the weekend
  • Fair food and local vendors: Artisan products, local crafts, and the classic fair eats

Supporting Local Agriculture

The Jefferson County Fair's roots run deep in the ranching and farming community that has defined this high desert landscape for generations. The fair showcases and promotes local agriculture, stock raising, horticultural, mechanical, artistic, and industrial pursuits — language that has appeared in fair descriptions since the event's earliest days.

For 4-H and FFA youth, the fair represents the culmination of a full year of work — and often the highlight of their summer. Families planning to attend the livestock auction should check the fair schedule for specific sale times.

Getting There

The Jefferson County Event Complex is located at the fairgrounds on Fairgrounds Road in central Madras. Parking is available on-site. For the latest schedule updates, ticket prices, and vendor information, visit the Jefferson County Event Complex page at jeffersoncountyor.gov/fairgrounds or follow the Jefferson County Fair and Rodeo on Facebook.