Today marks a turning point in the rhythm of life across Josephine County. The scent of sizzling food will soon drift through the air as vendors ignite their grills, livestock trailers will queue at the gates, and the fairgrounds will come alive with the clang of hammers and bursts of laughter. This isn’t just another week in Grants Pass—it’s fair week. The 2025 Josephine County Fair officially kicks off, ushering in five full days of celebration, spirited competition, and community camaraderie.
Slated to run from July 30 through August 3 at the Josephine County Fairgrounds, this year’s event is shaping up to be the largest and most dynamic in recent memory. Organizers are projecting record attendance, aiming to surpass last year’s milestone turnout with new attractions, returning favorites, and a full roster of entertainment for all ages.
But the Josephine County Fair is more than just a summer tradition—it’s a living reflection of rural heritage, civic pride, and small-town resilience. Volunteers, civic groups, student organizations, and local nonprofits have been working behind the scenes for weeks to transform the fairgrounds into a bustling venue that honors the past while embracing the present. Every banner hung, stall cleaned, and arena prepped carries the fingerprints of a community coming together.
The fairgrounds themselves are no stranger to big events. As one of the largest and most versatile venues in Southern Oregon, the site hosts everything from flea markets to regional expos throughout the year. Yet nothing quite matches the energy and scale of fair week—when every square inch of the property is alive with movement, color, and celebration.
This year’s lineup promises something for everyone. The midway returns with its high-flying carnival rides and nostalgic games, including unlimited ride wristbands available each day. Inside the exhibition halls, guests will find an array of local vendors, artisans, and small businesses showcasing everything from handmade crafts and gourmet treats to homegrown produce and specialty merchandise.
The entertainment slate is equally stacked. Headlining the grandstand stage on the night of July 31 will be country stars Rodney Atkins and Ned LeDoux—a pairing expected to draw one of the largest crowds of the weekend. For fans of adrenaline and tradition, the Challenge of Champions bull riding series will thunder into the covered arena, while the Paul Bunyan Lumberjack Show adds a fresh twist of frontier fun.
Agriculture remains the heart of the fair, and 4-H and FFA participants will once again shine in livestock shows, agricultural exhibits, and youth competitions. The “4TheKids” Junior Livestock Auction—always a highlight—offers the public a chance to support future farmers and celebrate the hard work of local youth.
Educational displays and demonstrations will spotlight heritage skills like woodworking, canning, and homesteading—helping bridge generations through shared knowledge and hands-on learning. And thanks to continued support from the county, admission to the fair remains free for all attendees.
To make things easier for fairgoers, a shuttle system is set to run between the fairgrounds and overflow parking areas, including Rogue Community College. Organizers say the goal is to ease traffic, improve access, and ensure everyone—especially seniors and families—can enjoy the festivities without hassle.
With the finishing touches being placed this week, Josephine County is ready to come together once again under the summer sky. The fair may last just five days, but its impact stretches much further—building bonds, creating memories, and reminding us why this corner of Oregon is unlike any other.
This weekend, the fairgrounds aren’t just hosting an event—they’re hosting the soul of the county.