Eastern Idaho State Fair 2024

The Eastern Idaho State Fair is held in late August and early September in Blackfoot, Idaho. The nine-day event starts on Labor Day weekend and gathers about 230,000 fairgoers annually. The fair usually begins with a big parade in Blackfoot that starts on Shilling Avenue and travels north. The parade features marching bands, floats, local clubs and organizations, police and department teams, dance teams, cheerleader squads, and musicians. Participants of the parade entertain the crowds and throw candy to people who line Shilling Avenue.

The Eastern Idaho State Fair dates back to 1902 when a few cattle ranchers held a livestock show called the Southeastern Idaho Fair. The event was supposed to promote local agriculture and farmers who displayed their produce. An Indian Relay Race was one of the highlights of the fair at that time, and it is still held today. The participants show amazing riding stunts jumping off and on horses while they are moving.

The grandstand of Eastern Idaho State Fair features horse races from noon till evening on weekdays. Live concerts are held during weekends with stars like Gabriel Iglesias and Cheap Trick. Nighttime events also include motocross, rodeo, bull riding, tractor pulls, and a demolition derby. The fair features delicious Chinese, Mexican and Indian food from teriyaki bowls to turkey legs.

Some of the most popular events of the Eastern Idaho State Fair include the Idaho Idol contest. Small-stage entertainment also features dance teams, comedians, arm wrestling, and hypnosis. Livestock and agriculture displays feature cows, bulls, horses, sheep, goats, pigs, rabbits, and ostriches. There is also a petting zoo and a reptile show.

Advance tickets are on sale until the first day of the fair. During the fair week, you can purchase tickets at the booths that take cash only. Cards are accepted at the Grandstand Event Ticket Office and Carnival Booths. Kids aged 5 and under enjoy free admission, while youth and seniors get discounted tickets.