El Paso County Colorado Fair Schedule
Introduction
The El Paso County Colorado Fair Schedule 2026–2027 focuses on one of the Pikes Peak region’s best-known agricultural and community traditions: the El Paso County Fair in Calhan, Colorado. The annual event brings together livestock exhibitions, youth agricultural projects, carnival rides, live entertainment, rodeo activities, motorsports, food vendors, and family attractions. Although Colorado Springs is the region’s largest city, the fair takes place east of the urban corridor in Calhan, where the surrounding plains and agricultural landscape provide a fitting setting for a traditional county fair.
The 2026 El Paso County Fair ran from July 11 through July 18, 2026, at the El Paso County Fairgrounds and Event Center, located at 366 10th Street, Calhan, Colorado 80808. The eight-day event featured agricultural competitions and entertainment, including auto races and a drone light show. Because those dates have passed, visitors planning for next summer should use the 2026 schedule only as a historical reference. A complete official schedule with confirmed dates and daily activities for the 2027 fair has not yet been established in the published information reviewed for this article.
El Paso County Fair Overview and Fast Facts
The El Paso County Fair combines agricultural education with entertainment for residents from across the county, including Colorado Springs, Calhan, Falcon, Peyton, Monument, Fountain, and other communities. Its program reflects the contrast between the fast-growing urban and suburban population around Colorado Springs and the agricultural traditions of eastern El Paso County.
The fairgrounds in Calhan provide space for livestock activities, exhibits, arena events, commercial vendors, and public entertainment. Youth exhibitors can demonstrate the results of their agricultural projects, while other visitors can enjoy carnival attractions, competitions, food, and evening events. The fair is also a community gathering where families, agricultural organizations, local businesses, and volunteers contribute to a shared annual celebration.
Key event information
- Event: El Paso County Fair
- County: El Paso County, Colorado
- Venue: El Paso County Fairgrounds and Event Center
- Address: 366 10th Street, Calhan, Colorado 80808
- Confirmed 2026 dates: July 11–18, 2026
- 2027 schedule: Complete official dates and daily program not yet confirmed in the information reviewed
- Main activities: Livestock shows, 4-H and FFA projects, creative arts exhibits, carnival rides, rodeo-related entertainment, auto races, food, and live performances
- 2026 general admission: Adults $8, seniors aged 55 and older $6, youth ages 4–12 $4, and children aged 3 and under free; special attractions could require separate payment
These admission prices describe the 2026 event and should not be treated as confirmed prices for 2027. Visitors should check the new ticket information before planning their budget.
History and Origins of the El Paso County Fair
The El Paso County Fair dates back to 1905, when a small potato festival began a tradition that eventually developed into a major countywide event. Agriculture played a more visible role in the early economy of eastern El Paso County, where farming, ranching, and livestock production shaped local livelihoods. The fair provided a place for residents to display agricultural products, exchange knowledge, and gather for competitions and entertainment.
Over time, the event expanded beyond its agricultural beginnings. Livestock exhibitions and youth programs remained important, while carnival attractions, concerts, rodeo activities, motorsports, and other public events broadened its appeal. This development reflects the growth of the wider Pikes Peak region, where Colorado Springs expanded into a major urban center while communities such as Calhan retained a more rural character.
The fair continues to connect these different parts of the county. Agricultural participants can showcase their skills, families can enjoy traditional fair attractions, and residents from urban neighborhoods can learn more about the county’s farming and ranching heritage. Its long history gives the event a role in preserving local identity as well as providing seasonal entertainment.
The Eagle County Colorado Fair Schedule and the El Paso County Colorado Fair Schedule highlight Colorado’s diverse agricultural traditions and community celebrations. Eagle County, located in the central Rocky Mountains, is known for the Eagle County Fair & Rodeo, featuring 4-H livestock shows, open-class exhibits, a junior livestock auction, carnival rides, and live music. El Paso County, centered around Colorado Springs and extending east to Calhan, hosts the El Paso County Fair, bringing together livestock competitions, youth agricultural projects, creative arts exhibits, carnival attractions, auto races, and family entertainment. Comparing both schedules helps residents and visitors explore Colorado’s rural heritage, discover local activities, and plan summer outings. Checking confirmed dates, venues, admission prices, and event details in advance can help families enjoy the unique experiences offered by both counties.
El Paso County Colorado Fair Schedule 2026: Daily Highlights
The 2026 El Paso County Fair ran for eight days, from Saturday, July 11, through Saturday, July 18. The published program included agricultural exhibits, 4-H and FFA activities, carnival attractions, grandstand events, and special entertainment. The schedule below summarizes the confirmed daily operating hours and selected highlights from the completed 2026 event.
Saturday, July 11: Opening Day and Military Appreciation
The fair opened on Saturday, July 11, with gates scheduled to open at 9:30 a.m. and general fair hours running from 10 a.m. to 11 p.m. Opening Saturday was designated Military Appreciation Day, with free admission advertised for active-duty military personnel, veterans, and dependents presenting military identification.
The opening weekend provided an opportunity for families to explore the fairgrounds, visit vendor booths, enjoy food concessions, and experience the carnival and agricultural exhibits. Visitors interested in grandstand entertainment could also check the day’s specific ticketed events, which operated under separate admission arrangements.
Sunday, July 12: Family Fair Activities
Sunday, July 12, was another full day of fair activities. The published general schedule listed operating hours from 10 a.m. to 11 p.m., with gates opening at 9:30 a.m. Visitors could explore the grounds, attend scheduled competitions, and enjoy the fair’s mix of entertainment and agricultural programming.
Families planning a similar visit in 2027 should look for the updated schedule before assuming that Sunday activities, entertainment times, or special offers will repeat. The opening weekend is often a popular period for visitors who want to experience the fair before the working week begins.
Monday, July 13: Youth Projects and Agricultural Exhibits
On Monday, July 13, the fair was scheduled to operate from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m., with gates opening at 10:30 a.m. The weekday program continued the fair’s agricultural and educational focus, including opportunities to view youth projects and other exhibits according to the published timetable.
Livestock and exhibit activities require careful coordination because participants must meet registration, check-in, and judging requirements. Families interested in specific animal shows should use the relevant competition schedule rather than relying on general fair opening hours.
Tuesday, July 14: Livestock and Community Activities
Tuesday, July 14, had published operating hours of 11 a.m. to 9 p.m., with gates opening at 10:30 a.m. The fair continued its mix of exhibits, youth activities, food, vendors, and entertainment.
Weekday visits can be useful for people who want to explore exhibits without limiting their visit to the weekend. However, the exact livestock classes, project judging times, and ticketed attractions depend on the daily program and should be confirmed before arrival.
Wednesday, July 15: Midweek Fair Experience
Wednesday, July 15, was scheduled from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. The midweek program continued the fair’s agricultural and recreational offerings, with the grandstand and other event spaces used for activities listed in the official program.
Visitors interested in 4-H and FFA projects could use the day to explore the educational side of the fair. Those more interested in entertainment could plan around the carnival, concessions, and any performances scheduled for that date.
Thursday, July 16: Exhibits and Evening Entertainment
Thursday, July 16, had published hours of 11 a.m. to 9 p.m., with gates opening at 10:30 a.m. As with other weekdays, visitors could combine a walk through the exhibit areas with food, vendor shopping, and the day’s scheduled attractions.
The daily schedule is especially important for people attending a particular grandstand event. General admission does not necessarily include every performance or competition, and visitors should confirm ticket requirements for any event they intend to attend.
Friday, July 17: Auto Races and Drone Light Show
Friday, July 17, was scheduled from 11 a.m. to 10 p.m., with gates opening at 10:30 a.m. One of the announced evening highlights was an auto-racing program followed by a drone light show at approximately 9:15 p.m.
The 2026 drone performance was planned to feature 500 synchronized drones celebrating the United States’ upcoming 250th anniversary, Colorado’s 150th anniversary, and the agricultural heritage of the El Paso County Fair. This was a distinctive special event in the 2026 program, not a confirmed attraction for 2027.
Saturday, July 18: Closing Day
The final day of the 2026 fair was Saturday, July 18. The published schedule listed general hours from 10 a.m. to 11 p.m., with gates opening at 9:30 a.m. The closing Saturday offered a final opportunity to visit the exhibits, enjoy carnival attractions, sample fair food, and attend scheduled competitions or entertainment.
Visitors planning a future closing-day trip should confirm the 2027 timetable once it becomes available. The final day of a fair can include special performances or competitions, but the exact lineup should never be assumed from the previous year’s schedule.
El Paso County Fair Schedule 2027
As of October 2026, the official information reviewed lists 2026 fair resources and some 2027 administrative materials, including superintendent application information. A complete public schedule with confirmed 2027 fair dates, daily opening hours, entertainment, and ticketed events has not yet been established in the published program.
The annual fair traditionally includes livestock competitions, 4-H and FFA exhibits, creative arts, carnival attractions, vendors, and grandstand entertainment. These recurring features provide a general picture of the event, but they do not confirm the exact dates or program for the next year.
Visitors should wait for the organizers to publish the 2027 calendar before making travel arrangements around particular competitions or performances. Exhibitors should pay close attention to registration deadlines and the fair book, while vendors should confirm application requirements and available space. Ticket prices, discount days, parking instructions, and special attractions should also be checked against the new information.
Agricultural Competitions and Livestock Shows
Agriculture remains central to the El Paso County Fair, particularly through livestock shows and youth projects. The program gives exhibitors an opportunity to demonstrate the skills involved in raising animals, maintaining records, preparing entries, and presenting projects to judges. These experiences can introduce young people to animal husbandry, agricultural responsibility, and the practical work associated with livestock production.
The fair’s livestock resources include 4-H and FFA animal show information for projects involving cattle, goats, horses, miniature horses, poultry, rabbits, sheep, swine, and small animals. The classes offered and their scheduled times vary according to the current fair program. Participants must follow the applicable rules for registration, animal identification, health documentation, and check-in.
For visitors, livestock barns and competition areas offer a closer look at agricultural education in El Paso County. They also demonstrate the connection between the rural communities east of Colorado Springs and the larger population centers that attend the fair for entertainment.
4-H and FFA Youth Programs
The El Paso County Fair provides an important public setting for youth development through 4-H and FFA-related agricultural projects. These programs encourage participants to learn by doing, whether through livestock care, horse projects, dog shows, small-animal exhibits, shooting sports, or other educational activities.
Preparing for the fair often involves months of planning. Young exhibitors may need to maintain project records, study animal care, practice showmanship, prepare displays, and meet registration requirements. Judging provides feedback on their work and helps them develop communication, organization, and problem-solving skills.
The fair also offers youth-focused activities beyond traditional livestock classes. The county’s program has included Barn Olympics and a 4-H dance, illustrating how agricultural education can be paired with teamwork and social activities. The dates and participation requirements for these events in 2027 should be confirmed in the new youth program information.
Open-Class Exhibits and Creative Arts
The fair’s open-class and creative arts competitions allow community members to participate even if they are not involved in livestock projects. The program invites entries from people interested in home baking, crafts, and other forms of creative or practical work. These exhibits add variety to the fair and recognize skills developed at home, through hobbies, or in community activities.
Exhibitors should review the current rules for eligible categories, entry forms, drop-off times, judging standards, and exhibit collection. Certain entries may have specific handling or presentation requirements, particularly if they are perishable or need to be displayed in a particular way.
For visitors, creative arts exhibits provide a different view of El Paso County’s community life. Alongside livestock and motorsports, they demonstrate the range of interests represented by residents across Calhan, Colorado Springs, and the surrounding communities.
Rodeo, Auto Races, and Grandstand Entertainment
The El Paso County Fair includes a range of grandstand entertainment that can extend beyond traditional agricultural competitions. Depending on the annual program, activities may include rodeo-related events, auto races, demolition derby performances, and other ticketed attractions.
Auto racing is particularly associated with the fairgrounds’ dirt track, which supports motorsports events outside the annual fair as well. The 2026 fair program included auto races on July 17, followed by the advertised drone light show. Rodeo and motorsports programs may have different start times, seating arrangements, and ticket conditions.
Because these events can be popular, visitors should verify the date and ticket availability of the specific performance they want to attend. The 2027 lineup, including any rodeo or demolition derby sessions, remains subject to the official announcement.
Carnival Rides, Food, and Family Attractions
The carnival is one of the fair’s major attractions for families. Rides, games, food stands, and concession vendors add a recreational dimension to the agricultural and educational program. Visitors can spend time at the midway between livestock shows, exhibits, and scheduled arena events.
Carnival admission and ride costs can be separate from general fair admission. Visitors should check the current information for wristband options, individual ride tickets, operating hours, and any age or height restrictions. Prices from the 2026 fair should not be used as a guide to 2027 costs.
Food vendors also contribute to the event’s atmosphere, offering visitors convenient options during a full day at the fairgrounds. Anyone with specific dietary needs should check the available vendor information rather than assume that particular food options will be present.
El Paso County Fairgrounds Facilities and Layout
The El Paso County Fair takes place at the El Paso County Fairgrounds and Event Center at 366 10th Street in Calhan. The site includes spaces for livestock activities, indoor exhibits, grandstand entertainment, vendor booths, and a dirt track used for auto racing. Its facilities also host community events, meetings, exhibitions, and other activities throughout the year.
During the fair, visitors may need to move between the exhibit buildings, livestock areas, carnival, food concessions, and grandstand. A current fair map can help identify entrances, parking areas, ticket booths, accessible routes, and individual attractions. The exact arrangement may change for different events or years.
The venue provides accessible parking in a designated lot near the north entrance, according to the published visitor information. Visitors who require accessible access should check the latest arrangements before traveling, especially if they are attending a ticketed event with a separate entrance or seating area.
Directions, Parking, and Visitor Planning
Calhan is located east of Colorado Springs along the eastern plains of El Paso County. Visitors driving from Colorado Springs or nearby communities can plan a route to 366 10th Street, Calhan, Colorado 80808. The venue’s location makes it convenient for residents of eastern El Paso County while also drawing visitors from the wider Pikes Peak region.
The fair’s published 2026 information listed general parking as free, with separate designated parking arrangements for visitors needing accessible parking. These details apply to the 2026 program and should be checked again for 2027.
Arriving early is useful on busy weekend days and for ticketed grandstand events. Visitors should allow time for traffic, parking, walking to the entrance, and locating their chosen activity. It is also sensible to review rules on outside food, beverages, pets, and prohibited items before leaving home, since fairground policies may affect what visitors can bring.
Admission Prices and Ticket Information
For the 2026 El Paso County Fair, general admission was listed at $8 for adults, $6 for seniors aged 55 and older, and $4 for youth ages 4–12. Children aged 3 and under were admitted free. The fair also advertised free general admission for active-duty military personnel, veterans, and dependents with military identification on opening Saturday, July 11.
General admission did not necessarily cover every grandstand performance or carnival ride. Ticketed events could require separate purchases, and carnival wristbands or individual ride tickets had their own pricing arrangements.
The 2027 ticket prices, discounts, and admission policies have not yet been confirmed in the information reviewed for this article. Visitors should check the new ticket details before budgeting for the fair, especially if they plan to attend multiple ticketed performances or visit with a large family group.
Vendor Opportunities and Volunteering
Vendors and volunteers contribute to the El Paso County Fair’s operation and community atmosphere. Vendors provide food, products, and services, while volunteers help with fair activities, visitor assistance, exhibits, and other organizational tasks. Participation can be a way for local businesses and residents to support the event and connect with visitors from across the county.
The fair’s vendor program has included a renewal process for previous vendors and applications for new vendors, with space subject to availability. Vendors may need to provide insurance documentation, comply with setup rules, and follow the fair’s operating hours. Application deadlines and requirements for 2027 should be confirmed once the new information is released.
People interested in volunteering should check the current volunteer opportunities and eligibility requirements. Some roles may have specific age, training, or scheduling conditions. Early planning is recommended because the fair’s operations involve many different activities across the eight-day event.
Economic and Community Impact
The El Paso County Fair creates a shared gathering for residents of a large and diverse county. It connects the agricultural communities of the eastern plains with the urban and suburban population around Colorado Springs, offering a place where livestock, youth education, local businesses, entertainment, and community traditions come together.
The event also creates opportunities for vendors, exhibitors, sponsors, and other participating organizations. Visitors may spend money on food, rides, merchandise, and ticketed entertainment, supporting the fair’s commercial activity. The precise economic effect varies by year and should not be estimated without reliable figures.
Youth agricultural programs contribute a longer-term benefit by encouraging young people to develop practical skills and participate in community life. Livestock shows, creative arts competitions, and educational projects help maintain connections with local agricultural traditions while giving participants a chance to demonstrate their work to the public.
Comparing Nearby Fairs and Agricultural Events
The El Paso County Fair is distinctive within the Pikes Peak region because it combines a traditional county fair with agricultural competitions, a carnival, grandstand entertainment, and motorsports at the Calhan fairgrounds. Its rural setting differs from the more urban festivals and events held in Colorado Springs, even though the two places are closely connected geographically.
Visitors comparing county fairs across Colorado may want to consider the agricultural program, youth competitions, rodeo and motorsports lineup, carnival attractions, admission prices, and accessibility of the venue. Each fair has its own schedule and local identity, so dates and activities should be checked separately.
For families in the Pikes Peak region, the El Paso County Fair offers a way to experience the agricultural heritage of eastern El Paso County without traveling far from Colorado Springs. Checking the current schedule can help visitors decide which days best match their interests, whether those involve livestock, creative exhibits, motorsports, or family entertainment.
Frequently Asked Questions About the El Paso County Colorado Fair Schedule
When was the El Paso County Fair held in 2026?
The 2026 El Paso County Fair ran from July 11 through July 18, 2026, at the fairgrounds in Calhan. The eight-day event has concluded.
What are the dates for the 2027 El Paso County Fair?
A complete official schedule with confirmed 2027 fair dates has not yet been established in the published information reviewed for this article. Visitors should wait for the organizers’ announcement before making plans around specific dates.
Where is the El Paso County Fair held?
The fair is held at the El Paso County Fairgrounds and Event Center, located at 366 10th Street, Calhan, Colorado 80808.
How much did admission cost in 2026?
Published general admission prices were $8 for adults, $6 for seniors aged 55 and older, $4 for youth ages 4–12, and free for children aged 3 and under. These are 2026 prices, not confirmed 2027 rates.
Does the fair include livestock shows and 4-H activities?
Yes. Livestock exhibitions and youth projects are central elements of the fair. The program includes resources for 4-H and FFA animal shows, small-animal activities, horse projects, and other educational competitions.
Are carnival rides included with general admission?
Carnival attractions may involve separate charges. Visitors should check the applicable year’s information for ride tickets, wristbands, and operating hours.
Does the El Paso County Fair feature auto races?
The fairgrounds host auto-racing events, and the 2026 fair schedule included auto races on July 17. The motorsports program for 2027 remains unconfirmed.
Is parking available at the fairgrounds?
The 2026 visitor information listed free general parking and a designated accessible parking area. Visitors should verify current parking instructions before attending the 2027 fair.
Can residents enter creative arts or open-class competitions?
The fair offers creative arts and open-class opportunities, including categories for home bakers and crafters. Entry requirements, deadlines, and eligible categories should be checked in the current fair rules.
How can vendors or volunteers participate?
Vendors should review the current application process, available space, insurance requirements, and deadlines. Prospective volunteers should consult the fair’s volunteer information for current opportunities and eligibility conditions.
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