For over a century, the Deschutes County Fair & Rodeo has stood as the heartbeat of Central Oregon summer. What began as a humble potato show in 1906 has grown into the largest county fair in Oregon and the biggest annual event east of the Cascades. In 2026, this beloved tradition enters its 105th year with a celebration that carries extra weight – it’s part of the America 250 Oregon celebration, honoring our nation’s semiquincentennial.
From July 29 through August 2, 2026, the Deschutes County Fairgrounds in Redmond will transform into a vibrant showcase of western heritage, agricultural pride, and family entertainment. Whether you are a rodeo enthusiast, a carnival lover, a foodie, or a family seeking authentic summer fun, this five-day extravaganza delivers something unforgettable for everyone.
And with Meredith Lodging’s premier Central Oregon vacation rentals, you can experience all the fair has to offer while enjoying the comfort, space, and privacy that hotels simply cannot match.
Deschutes County Fair & Rodeo 2026: Event Overview
Dates and Hours
The fair runs Wednesday, July 29, through Sunday, August 2, 2026. Gates open at 11:00 a.m. daily and close at 8:00 p.m..
Location
Deschutes County Fairgrounds Expo Center 3800 SW Airport Way Redmond, Oregon 97756
Admission
General admission tickets start at approximately $26. All concerts in the Kendall Toyota of Bend FREE Summer Concert Series are FREE with fair admission.
Accessibility
The venue is wheelchair accessible with accessible parking, sensory-friendly accommodations, and service animals are welcome.
A Rich History: From Potato Show to Oregon’s Largest County Fair
The Deschutes County Fair has roots that run deep in Central Oregon soil. The story begins in 1906 with the Redmond Potato Show, a celebration of the region’s prolific potato farming industry. Potato farming was so popular in the early days that the fair was actually first known as the Annual Potato Show.
The first official Deschutes County Fair was held on October 14-16, 1920, the year following World War I. In those early years, the fair took place during September or October rather than summer to accommodate the large population of ranchers and farmers in the region. Once harvest was done, the community could come together to celebrate.
For decades, the fair was held on a 33-acre property at the corner of Highland Avenue and Canal Boulevard in Redmond – where the Fred Meyer now stands. In 1999, the fair and rodeo moved to its current home at the Deschutes County Fairgrounds Expo Center, a state-of-the-art facility offering 200,000 square feet of indoor event space, 120,000 square feet of covered livestock and equestrian arenas, 400 horse stalls, and a 105-space, full-service RV park.
Today, as the fair enters its 105th year, it remains a celebration of rural living and a reminder of a time when the region was mostly farms and mills. In 2026, the fair carries special meaning as Redmond is one of only two designated “Flag City USA” locations in the nation, making it a fitting venue for America’s 250th birthday celebration.
The Coastal NPRA Rodeo: Championship Action
The rodeo is the heart and soul of the Deschutes County Fair. For four nights, the First Interstate Bank Center hosts the Coastal NPRA Rodeo presented by ABBAS, featuring championship NPRA action.
Rodeo Schedule:
Wednesday, July 29 – Grand Entry at 6:30 p.m.
Thursday, July 30 – Grand Entry at 6:30 p.m.
Friday, July 31 – Grand Entry at 6:30 p.m.
Saturday, August 1 – Grand Entry at 7:00 p.m.
Sunday: Hooker Creek Duel in the Desert
The rodeo action doesn’t stop on Saturday. On Sunday, August 2, the fair presents the one-day Hooker Creek Duel in the Desert. This unique event brings together some of the Northwest’s top High School Rodeo athletes in a six-person tournament to determine who earns the title of Best in the West. It’s a showcase of raw talent and youthful ambition that rodeo fans won’t want to miss.
FREE Summer Concert Series: Sara Evans Headlines
The Kendall Toyota of Bend FREE Summer Concert Series, presented by Mike’s Fence Center, brings five nights of incredible live music to the fair. Best of all, all concerts are FREE with fair admission.
Wednesday, July 29: Sara Evans
Multi-platinum country artist Sara Evans kicks off the concert series on Wednesday, July 29. Evans is one of the most recognized names in country music, with five No. 1 singles including “Born to Fly,” “Suds in the Bucket,” “A Real Fine Place To Start,” “No Place That Far,” and “A Little Bit Stronger”. She has earned the prestigious Academy of Country Music Top Female Vocalist award, numerous American Music Awards, Billboard Music Awards, and Grammy Award nominations. A proud member of the Grand Ole Opry, Evans continues to thrill audiences around the world with her “stunning, country voice” (Rolling Stone).
The concert series features a mix of Country, Classic Rock, and R&B, ensuring there is something for every musical taste. VIP tickets for front-stage access go on sale soon.
Carnival Rides, Livestock Shows, and Family Fun
Beyond the rodeo and concerts, the Deschutes County Fair offers a wealth of attractions for visitors of all ages.
Carnival and Midway
The fair’s midway is packed with thrilling carnival rides, classic games, and irresistible fair food. From heart-pounding roller coasters to gentle kiddie rides, there is something for every level of adventure.
Livestock and Agriculture
As Oregon’s largest county fair, the Deschutes County Fair showcases the very best of the region’s agricultural heritage. Visitors can explore livestock exhibitions featuring cattle, sheep, swine, goats, and poultry. The 4-H and FFA programs are central to the fair experience, with young exhibitors demonstrating their skills in animal care and showmanship.
Commercial Vendors
With nearly 80 vendors indoors and over 200 outdoors, the fair offers endless shopping opportunities. From handmade crafts and local art to western wear and fair souvenirs, you can find unique treasures around every corner.
Exhibitor and Contest Guidebook
The fair invites participants to explore the 2026 Exhibitor & Contest Guidebook, featuring a wide array of competitions and activities. Whether you are interested in baking, photography, gardening, or crafts, there are countless ways to get involved and showcase your talents.
Family-Friendly Attractions
The fair is designed with families in mind. Children can enjoy petting zoos, interactive exhibits, and hands-on activities that bring agriculture and rural life to life.
America 250 Celebration: A Historic Year
The 2026 Deschutes County Fair carries special significance as part of the America 250 Oregon celebration. Redmond’s designation as one of only two “Flag City USA” locations in the nation adds an extra layer of patriotism to this year’s event.
Visitors can expect expanded programming, special historical displays, and a sense of occasion that goes beyond a typical county fair. It’s a chance to celebrate our nation’s heritage while experiencing the vibrant culture of Central Oregon.
Beyond the Fair: Explore Central Oregon
The Deschutes County Fair is the perfect centerpiece for a Central Oregon summer getaway. Extend your stay and discover all the region has to offer.
Bend
Just a short drive from Redmond, Bend offers world-class dining, craft breweries, and outdoor recreation. The Deschutes River flows through the heart of the city, offering endless opportunities for paddling, fishing, and riverside strolls. Our Bend vacation rentals place you close to all the action.
Sisters
This charming western town sits at the base of the Three Sisters mountains. Explore boutique shops, art galleries, and enjoy the small-town atmosphere. A stay in one of our Sisters vacation rentals puts you within easy reach of the fair and the region’s natural beauty.
Sunriver
Just south of Bend, Sunriver offers a resort-style experience with world-class golf, the SHARC aquatic center, and miles of paved bike paths. Our Sunriver vacation rentals provide a relaxing base for fairgoers.
Black Butte Ranch
Black Butte Ranch sits near the Metolius River corridor, offering miles of trails through forest and meadow habitats. A Black Butte Ranch vacation rental offers a peaceful retreat after the excitement of the fair.
Eagle Crest
Located in Redmond, Eagle Crest Resort offers three golf courses, sports centers, pools, and bike trails. An Eagle Crest vacation rental puts you minutes from the fairgrounds.
Brasada Ranch
For a touch of luxury, Brasada Ranch offers a stunning high-desert setting with a spa, golf course, and ranch-style accommodations. Browse our Brasada Ranch vacation rentals for an upscale fair weekend.
Mount Bachelor Village
Stay near the slopes of Mount Bachelor, where summer offers hiking, mountain biking, and scenic chairlift rides. Our Mount Bachelor Village properties offer easy access to both the fair and outdoor adventure.
Why Does a Vacation Rental Enhance Your Fair Experience?
Hotels confine you to cramped rooms with limited amenities. A vacation rental from Meredith Lodging transforms your fair weekend into a true Central Oregon getaway. Our homes offer separate bedrooms, full kitchens, and private living areas where you can relax after a long day of carnival rides and rodeo action.
Bring your furry friend along with our pet friendly homes that feature fenced yards and easy access to trails. After a day of walking the fairgrounds, soak in a private hot tub under the stars. Traveling with extended family or a group of friends? Our large group getaways fit everyone comfortably. Want something extra special? Explore our luxury homes with premium amenities. Planning a romantic escape? Our romantic retreats offer the perfect setting.
Save money, save stress, and make your Deschutes County Fair experience unforgettable. Book with Meredith Lodging.
Plan Your Deschutes County Fair Getaway Today
The Deschutes County Fair & Rodeo is Central Oregon’s premier summer tradition. With its 105-year history, championship NPRA rodeo action, FREE concert series featuring Sara Evans, and endless family-friendly attractions, 2026 is the year to experience it.
