Guthrie County Fair

One of the best county fairs in Iowa.

The Guthrie County Fair, started in 1858 by the Guthrie County Agricultural Society, has always been a tribute to our local rural families and farmers. It’s their hard work and perseverance that has shaped our history. Over the last 150 years, the fair has grown in size from one town block the first year to over 7 acres of land along the river, with a new grandstand, 4H building, schoolhouse museum, many exhibit halls, and a large campground.

Although there have been many changes to the fair, like horse races being replaced with the mud bogs and a new grandstand replacing the old wooden one, some things will never change. Nothing can replace the cotton candy, corndogs, and carnival rides that still delight the crowds after all these years. Special events include the Saturday-morning parade, Teen Town Dance, live entertainment for the whole family, mud bog races, and bingo. An amusement park with a merry-go-round and other rides keeps the kids entertained. Don’t forget to tour the 4H Exhibit Hall, the Art Hall, the Baker #2 country school museum, and the livestock barns.

Over the last few years, the GC Fair Board has been raising funds to replace older buildings with new ones, like the grand stands and community building. Every year, the fair looks to improve and expand for the thousands of visitors who attend. The Guthrie County Fair is held every Labor Day weekend, which is one of the few fairs to take place after the Iowa State Fair. The fairgrounds have lots of camping sites available for visitors and loads of entertainment for all.

Established

1858

Location

Guthrie Center

Web

guthriecountyfair.com

Fees

General admission (Adult) $5.00

Children 10 to 14 years $1.00

Children under 10 years FREE

Men and Women Active Duty FREE

Membership or Exhibitors $15.00