Elkhart Co. Fair Draws 190,189
Published: Friday, August 21, 2026
The Elkhart County 4-H Fair welcomed just over 190,000 guests during its nine-day run from July 24 through Aug. 1.
The great turnout reflects the continued support of the community, with guests filling the fairgrounds throughout the week despite two days being significantly affected by weather.
"We are incredibly grateful to everyone who joined us this year," said Jason Wogoman, 2026 fair board president. "Our community continues to show up for 4-H, agriculture and the traditions that make the Elkhart County 4-H Fair so special."
The 2026 fair offered a full lineup of grandstand events, special days, family entertainment and activities under the theme "Driven by Purpose, Powered by Community." Guests enjoyed concerts, harness racing, truck and tractor pulls, rodeo, monster trucks and entertainment throughout the Fairgrounds.
Several new programs joined the lineup this year, including the Ugly Dog Competition, Dad Joke Contest and Cheerleading Competition. These additions were well received and brought new opportunities for guests to participate while complementing returning favorites such as Green Day, Hometown Hero Day, Free Admission Day, Disabilities and Special Groups Day, Senior Citizens' Day, Kids' Day and Noche Latina.
"We are always looking for new ways to bring people together while honoring the traditions at the heart of the fair," said Shelly Steury, general manager. "The response to this year's new programs was exciting, and we look forward to building on that enthusiasm."
The Elkhart County 4-H Fair will return July 23-31, 2027.
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