2021 County Fair & Rodeo canceled, modified 4-H events continue

Due to COVID-19 restrictions, Benton County has canceled the majority of the events that make up the Benton County Fair & Rodeo, including concerts, rodeo and carnival events. The Fairgrounds will work closely with OSU Extension to support modified 4-H  in-person animal shows, culminating with the Lee Allen Memorial Youth Livestock Auction on Saturday, August 7.

The safety of guests, volunteers, staff, and community partners is the County’s top priority.  Although vaccination rates in Benton County are the highest in the state, case rates remain high. Given this fact, and based on a recommendation by the County’s Health Department, the Benton County Board of Commissioners decided to cancel the public activities of this year’s Fair.

“We are saddened that we won’t be able to host the Fair again this year, but public health must come first,” said Lynne McKee, director of Benton County Natural Areas, Parks and Events.  “We will begin work on the 2022 Benton County Fair & Rodeo, planning for a big party to welcome our guests back next year. So we’ll see you August 3-6, 2022!”

Depending on ongoing COVID-19 restrictions, The Benton County Event Center & Fairgrounds will consider a smaller family-oriented event later in the summer.

Details of the Lee Allen Memorial Youth Livestock Auction will be available at www.bentoncountyfair.net starting June 1, 2021.