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About Us

Rich history

The Carroll County Fair has a rich history rooted in community spirit and resilience. The fair originally took place just south of Carroll, Iowa. After a devastating fire in 1921 destroyed the original fairgrounds, and with no insurance to cover the loss, a new chapter began. Thanks to generous land and lumber donations from Roswell Garst and Charley Thomas of Garst and Thomas Hi-Bred Corn Company, the fair was reestablished in Coon Rapids in 1922, where it continues to thrive today.

Fair Board

  • Brian Sander - President
  • Aaron McDonough - Vice President
  • Jim Mohr - Treasurer
  • Britt Sander - Secretary
  • Dan Behrens - Member
  • Whitney Cue - Member
  • Justin Cue - Member
  • Anna Boeke - Member
  • Sean Boeke - Member
  • Cherrie Mohr - Member
  • Cortney Cadwalleder - Member
  • Jake Sander - Member
  • Jake Nielson - Member
  • John Hoben - Member
  • Kathy England - Member

Carroll County Fair Map

Visitor Information

200-298 8th Ave, Coon Rapids, IA 50058
From Des Moines
  1. Get on I-235 W from downtown.
  2. Take IA-141 W
    Follow IA-141 W for about 70 miles toward Coon Rapids.
  3. Turn onto Velvet Avenue
    Once near Coon Rapids, turn right onto Velvet Ave.
  4. Continue into town
    Take Velvet Ave to Elm Street, then turn onto 8th Ave.
    The fairgrounds will be on your left.

Approximate drive time: 1 hour 15 minutes

From Omaha
  1. Start in Omaha
    Take Douglas St to I-480 E.
  2. Merge onto I-80 E
    Follow I-80 E for about 60 miles.
  3. Take Exit 60 for US-71 N
    Head north on US-71 through Atlantic.
  4. Continue on US-71 N
    Turn right onto IA-44 E and follow it toward Coon Rapids.
  5. Turn left onto Chestnut Rd, then follow local signs to 8th Ave.
    The fairgrounds will be on your right.

Approximate drive time: 1 hour 30 minutes

Tuesday-Thursday – $5 for all ages

Friday-Saturday – Ages 5-13 $5; Ages 14+ $10

Admission Wristband – Includes everyday entry $20

FREE parking off grounds; Limited handicap parking available on grounds.

No, we have wonderful vendors that are happy to fill your cravings and both of our Grandstands have plenty of bleacher seating!

Yes, but it is limited.

In accordance with the Smokefree Air Act, portions of the Fairgrounds are smoke-free. While smoking is allowed in the walkway areas of the Fairgrounds, the law applies to sections designated by no-smoking signs. In those areas, smoking of any kind is prohibited (including use of e-cigarettes).

Smoke-free areas of the Fairgrounds include:
  • Outdoor entertainment venues – stage areas, tents and grounds attraction areas.
  • Grandstand area.
  • Inside all buildings.

No, outside alcohol is prohibited on the fairgrounds. You may purchase alcohol from our stands during the evening events!

Fair History

Throughout the decades, the fair has grown with the support of dedicated volunteers, families, and local organizations. During the 1970s, key attractions like the demolition derby and the well-known Methodist Church barbecue, where full sides of beef were cooked in underground brick-lined pits, became local traditions. The 1980s brought challenges due to the farm crisis, but new leadership in the 1990s revitalized the fair with expanded food options, new events, and entertainment that drew record attendance.

1999

In 1999, the construction of a permanent entertainment building replaced the need for annual stage setups, paving the way for larger and more consistent performances. Since then, the fair has continued to invest in its facilities and programming. With the help of volunteers and successful events like the Figure 8 races, numerous improvements have been made:

  • A new exhibit building
  • A 60×100 ft. hoop barn
  • Upgraded grandstand bleachers
  • The Little Red Barn and a grain bin (with support from Farm Bureau and Elver Enterprises)
  • Enhanced livestock facilities, including new pens for rabbits, hogs, sheep, goats, poultry, and bucket calves
  • Improved ventilation and shade in the show ring and barns

2019

In 2019, the Carroll County Cattlemen contributed to a new cattle scale and updates to the cattle barn.

2024

Most recently, in 2024, the fair introduced its newest feature: the Family Fun Center, located at the main entrance. This space includes a Gaga Ball court, basketball wagon, and shaded picnic areas, all designed to give families a place to relax and play together.

Every advancement at the fairgrounds has been made possible by the tireless dedication of volunteers. Their efforts are the foundation of the fair’s success. As our motto says: “Volunteers don’t get paid. Not because they’re worthless, but because they’re priceless.”