As summer comes to an end, the community is preparing to mark the season’s shift in style, with its most vibrant and cherished tradition — the Jefferson County Fair and Rodeo.
The fair’s 40th edition, which runs from Aug. 22 to 25, promises fun for all, from the littlest visitors to the young at heart. “We strive to offer something for everyone, no matter their age,” said Terry Minow, the Fair Board Chair. “We have plenty of activities tailored for young children, but there are also events that may seem just for kids, like the coloring contest, but are truly fun for all ages!”
This year’s fair will feature all the beloved staples — rodeo shows, a barn dance, parades, and the bake sale — alongside some new additions. Visitors can look forward to an ax-throwing competition (no real axes involved!), open to participants aged 18 and up, on Sunday at 12:30 p.m. And the Boulder River Quilt Guild will host its first Fiber Fest in the Boiler Building on Saturday afternoon and Sunday.
“Anyone can bring in anything made from fiber to enter and display,” Minow said. “You’ll see hand-spun wool and all kinds of fiber art on show.”
Recalling a previous year when someone brought a restored tractor, prompting the fair organizers to create a new category on the spot, Minow encouraged everyone to showcase their talents and unique items at the fair. “We always say that if you bring something, we’ll make a category for it,” she added.
This year’s 4-H animal show and auction is set to boast an impressive lineup of animals. Members will show 10 hogs this year, alongside the usual complement of cows, sheep and poultry.
The bake auction, a perennial favorite, is set to draw baking enthusiasts from across the county. Last year’s event raised $17,070 to support the fairgrounds; this year’s auction is expected to continue that tradition of culinary excellence and civic generosity.
One of the fair’s major highlights, the rodeo, is set to feature around 500 participants this year, according to Jefferson County Rodeo Association President Brady Nordahl. This year’s event will honor Glenn Bruce, who managed the fairgrounds for 15 years, and Fred Bell, a former Grand Marshal and longtime rodeo supporter.
Kids will parade their horses down Boulder’s Main Street on Friday at 11 a.m. The grown-up parade comes
to life the next day: Participants will line up with their floats, horses and other vehicles at 11 a.m. on Saturday, and the parade sets off at noon.
Thursday night’s “Big Deal” In-County Rodeo will feature local ranchers in competition. Top performers will earn prestigious all-around cowgirl and all-around cowboy belt buckles, celebrating their skills and dedication.
Continued on Page 6
Continued from Page 5
This year, the in-county rodeo will include a new event: a barrel race featuring first responders. Law enforcement officers, firefighters, and emergency medical personnels will raise money for their teams, with the top two finishers splitting the pot
The Northern Rodeo Association pro rodeo will feature traditional events such as bucking broncs, calf roping, and barrel racing, with participants competing for all-around awards. According to Minow, this rodeo stays true to its authentic roots.
“As rodeos in some communities have shifted focus from true rodeo to entertainment, this event remains genuinely authentic,” Minow explained. “It’s all about the activities, the cowboys, the animals, and the participants.”
The traditional barn dance, a crowd favorite, caps Saturday’s activities, showcasing live music from the local Longhorn Band starting at 8 p.m. in the White Barn. And musical performances from Rich Matoon and Mary Papoulis, the Tiernan Irish Dancers, John Montoya, the Nightcrawlers, and Depot Hill will provide entertainment through the weekend.
With everything in place, this year’s fair and rodeo are poised to deliver the joy that has become its hallmark.
“One of the truly special aspects is that many people who grew up here return for the fair, making it feel like a big reunion,” said Minow. “It’s a chance for family reunions and for friends and former neighbors to reconnect.”
