Participate
Get Involved at the Carroll County Fair
There’s something for everyone at the Carroll County Fair, whether you’re a seasoned exhibitor, a first-time competitor, or just looking to try something new. From livestock shows and open class exhibits to creative contests like Bucket of Junk and high-energy events like the Figure 8 Races, the fair offers opportunities for all ages, skill levels, and interests. It’s a place where talents are showcased, memories are made, and the community comes together. Explore the ways you can participate and be part of the tradition!
4-H/FFA Exhibitors
The 4-H Exhibit Building showcases the hard work and accomplishments of Carroll County youth across a broad range of project areas. Exhibits include everything from prize-winning baked goods, quilting, and sewing to photography, robotics, animal science, and educational posters.
Each project represents months of effort, learning, and personal growth. 4-H members explore interests in agriculture, science, technology, the arts, and community development, gaining valuable skills along the way. These exhibits not only highlight individual achievements but also demonstrate the diversity of knowledge and creativity fostered through 4-H programs.
Visitors are invited to explore the building, learn more about the many project areas 4-H offers, and celebrate the dedication of local youth who are shaping the future of their communities.
Entry information and forms can be found at the links below:
Family 5K Walk/Run
- Saturday, July 12th
- 7:50 AM - 8:20 AM Check-in 8:30 AM Race Starts
- $15 Registration Fee through June 30th ($20 after June 30th)
- T-shirt available with registration BEFORE June 30th
- Bikes, Strolls and Pets welcome!
The event will begin south of the front gate on the Southeast side of the fairgrounds. To be guaranteed a t-shirt, register before June 30th. $15 registration until June 30th, increases to $20 after that. Medals will be awarded to the top 3 men and top 3 women finishers.
For questions or to register, contact Grant Cadwallader at 712-210-3323 or gcaddy@hotmail.com.
Bacon Buddies®
- Wednesday, July 9th
- 5:00 pm: Mentors, Pig and Participant Meet and Greet
- 5:45 pm: Group Picture (All participants and mentors)
- 6:00 – 7:00 pm: Bacon Buddies® Swine Show
Bacon Buddies® is a special event that brings together individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities, 4-H members, and FFA youth to share the excitement of the show ring. During this event, Buddies are paired with experienced youth mentors who guide and support them as they show a pig. Together, they walk the pig through the ring, giving Buddies the opportunity to experience firsthand the pride, fun, and accomplishment that comes with participating in a livestock show.
Charity Bags Tournament
- Saturday, July 12th
- $30 Registration Fee per team
- 11:30 am - 12:30 pm: Team Registration
- 12:45 pm: Rules Explanation
- 1:00 pm: Tournament Starts
- Must be 16 years of age - Double Elimination
$1,100 Total Purse Paid Out
Winners Choose Charity
First place winners not only receive the cash prize listed below, but also get to choose a Carroll County charity to receive a donation in their name. All proceeds from team registration go directly to support local charities.
1st Place $400 cash
2nd Place $300 cash
3rd Place $200 cash
4th Place $100 cash
5th Place $75 cash
6th Place $30 cash
For questions or to register, contact, Cortney Cadwallader at 515-890-7475
Bucket of Junk
- Friday, July 11th
- 2:00 pm: Judging & Awards
- Show Ring
The Bucket of Junk contest challenges 4-H members to turn a random assortment of donated scrap materials into creative, original sculptures. Participants pick up their bucket of “junk” ahead of the fair and spend time designing and building their project, often drawing inspiration from platforms like Pinterest or simply letting the materials guide their imagination. Projects are judged during the fair on creativity and use of materials, with divisions for Junior, Intermediate, and Senior exhibitors.
Originally launched in 2022, the contest is sponsored by the Carroll County Farm Bureau and hosted by Carroll County Extension and Outreach. Thanks to generous donations from businesses like Puck Enterprises, Van Wall Equipment, and GehlPRO Welding, participation continues to grow each year.
Participants have the opportunity to auction off their finished projects during a bonus auction at the fair. The Bucket of Junk contest encourages creativity, problem-solving, and hands-on skills that can spark interest in future careers in trades or craftsmanship.
Interested 4-H members can find more information and sign-up details through Carroll County Extension and Outreach.
Commercial Exhibitors & Food Vendors
Throughout the fairgrounds, visitors will find a variety of commercial exhibits featuring local businesses, services, and products. From food trucks serving up delicious meals and treats, to pop-up boutiques offering unique apparel and gifts, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. Vendors also include displays of the latest farm equipment, tools, and technology, giving visitors a chance to see innovations that support agriculture and rural living.
The Commercial Exhibits area offers a great opportunity to discover new businesses, learn about local services, and support the many organizations that help make the Carroll County Fair possible. Whether you’re grabbing a meal, shopping for a new outfit, or checking out the newest farm equipment, the commercial exhibits add an extra layer of excitement and connection to the fair experience.
Interested in becoming a commercial exhibitor? Sign-up information can be found at the link below:
Fair Queen & Junior Fair Queen, Little Royals
The Little Royals Contest includes Little Miss & Mister (ages 4-7) and Prince & Princess (ages 8-10). Winners and runners-up are chosen randomly, with the older group also introducing themselves. All winners ride in the parade, and the top winners return the following year to help draw the new winners.
The Fair Queen contest is for girls ages 16-21 living in Carroll County and active in a service organization. The Junior Fair Queen contest is for girls ages 12-15 active in community service, and includes an interview process. Both queens will have duties throughout the fair.
Open Class
The Open Class exhibits highlight the wide range of skills and talents found across Carroll County. Exhibits include award-winning vegetables, flowers, photography, needlework, woodworking, baked goods, and special collections.
Participation is open to all community members, providing an opportunity to showcase projects, hobbies, and craftsmanship. Special Best Overall ribbons will be awarded in several categories, including Flowers, Food, and Photography. We encourage all ages and skill levels to participate.
Entry information and forms can be found at the links below:
Parade
- Saturday, July 12th
- 10:00am: "FREE" Registration (Beck's Parking Lot)
- 11:00 am Parade Starts
Celebrate the 2025 Carroll County Fair as community members and organizations join together floats and entries for the parade honoring the theme, Racing to the Fair.
Prizes Awarded:
Best Antique Vehicle/Machinery, Best Float, Best of Show, Best Theme
New this year:
Toyne Fire Apparatus of Breda, is sponsoring trophies for the fire trucks in the parade. Trophies awarded for:
- Newest
- Most Creative
- Oldest
- Fan Favorite
- Judge’s Choice