The countdown is officially on, with just thirteen days remaining until the gates open for the 2025 Josephine County Fair. Slated to run from July 30 through August 3 at the Josephine County Fairgrounds in Grants Pass, this year’s fair promises to be the largest and most dynamic in recent history, with participation expected to surpass last year’s record-breaking turnout.
The fairgrounds, one of the largest event centers in Southern Oregon, serve as more than just a home for the annual fair. Throughout the year, the site plays host to hundreds of private and public events. With facilities capable of accommodating gatherings from a single meeting room to arena-sized crowds of up to 4,000, the venue has become a cornerstone of community engagement and entertainment in Josephine County. From flea markets and dances to equestrian shows and regional expos, the fairgrounds remain in constant use year-round.
As fair week approaches, preparation is well underway across the county. Volunteers, civic organizations, school groups, and local nonprofits are all working together to ensure that the fair lives up to its reputation as the community’s marquee event. The grounds themselves are being cleaned, decorated, and transformed into a vibrant hub of activity that reflects both the agricultural heritage and modern-day spirit of the region.
A wide range of events and attractions are scheduled for this year’s fair, offering something for every age and interest. The always-popular carnival will return with rides and games, including daily unlimited ride wristbands. Visitors can also look forward to live concerts, grandstand shows, rodeo performances, and a lineup of family-friendly entertainment. One of the main events includes the Challenge of Champions bull riding competition, which will take place in the covered arena, while the Paul Bunyan Lumberjack Show adds a new element of fun and tradition.
Agricultural exhibits, livestock shows, and youth competitions will again take center stage, with 4-H and FFA participants from across the region showcasing their hard work and dedication. The “4TheKids” Junior Livestock Auction will return as a highlight, drawing buyers and supporters eager to invest in the future of local farming and youth development.
Vendors and exhibitors will fill the commercial buildings with handcrafted goods, artwork, local food, and unique merchandise. Educational demonstrations in areas like woodworking, homesteading, and food preservation will be available for those interested in learning traditional skills. These interactive sessions not only celebrate self-reliance and craftsmanship but also provide attendees with an opportunity to engage with local artisans and educators.
This year’s fair will also feature a major country music concert with Rodney Atkins and Ned LeDoux performing in the grandstand on the evening of July 31. The concert is expected to draw one of the largest crowds of the week, adding to the fair’s growing status as a regional entertainment destination.
Admission to the fairgrounds will remain free, continuing the county’s tradition of making the event accessible to all residents regardless of income. Organizers are also planning to reintroduce a shuttle service connecting the fairgrounds to nearby parking areas and Rogue Community College, helping to ease traffic congestion and improve accessibility for seniors and families.
As excitement builds, local officials and residents alike are preparing to celebrate what the Josephine County Fair represents: a shared sense of tradition, a showcase of rural excellence, and a time to reconnect with neighbors, friends, and family. With expanded offerings, increased participation, and a strong foundation of community support, the 2025 Josephine County Fair is poised to be one of the most successful yet—welcoming thousands through its gates in a celebration of everything that makes Josephine County unique.