The Washington County Fair, held annually in Hurricane, Utah, continues its legacy as the longest-running county event in the region, celebrating 165 years of tradition, innovation, and community connection. Recently named Best of Southern Utah Annual Event for both 2024 and 2025, the Fair remains a cornerstone gathering that honors Southern Utah’s heritage while supporting its future.
Each year, the Washington County Fair draws approximately 60,000 attendees, with an estimated 25% traveling from outside Washington County. A 2024 economic impact survey placed the Fair’s contribution to the local economy at $5.8 million, highlighting its role as both a cultural celebration and a significant economic driver for the region.
The Fair features a wide range of attractions, including diverse food vendors and retail booths offering everything from handmade goods to specialty products. Local creativity and craftsmanship take center stage through more than 2,000 competitive entries across art, quilting, crafts, horticulture, and other categories. These competitions resulted in $16,000 awarded directly to Washington County residents, reinforcing the Fair’s commitment to supporting local talent.
Giving back is a core part of the Fair’s mission. Over the past year, $62,000 was reinvested into the community through Rotary grants, Fair royalty scholarships, and FFA scholarships, supporting education, leadership development, and agricultural excellence. Educational outreach is also a priority, with the Fair hosting fourth-grade field trips over three days. During those visits, 1,121 students from 14 schools participated in hands-on learning experiences rooted in agriculture, history, and civic pride.
Entertainment continues to be a hallmark of the Washington County Fair. The most recent Fair featured 38 bands on the main stage and 23 performing groups on the community stage, delivering nonstop music and performances for audiences of all ages throughout the event.
Guided by its mission “to celebrate the rich heritage, enduring culture, and vibrant community spirit of Southern Utah,” the Washington County Fair brings generations together in a safe, family-friendly environment where tradition meets innovation. For more than 160 years, the Fair has honored the past, showcased the present, and inspired future generations, solidifying its place as a lasting Southern Utah tradition.
The 2026 Washington County Fair will take place April 10–18 at the Washington County Fairgrounds in Hurricane. More information is available at washcofair.net.
