In early 1939, the Asotin Civic Association organized the first “Spring Festival” for residents to bring produce and goods to sell. In 1940, the event was renamed “Fair Day,” and a button featuring a bull’s head was introduced as the official emblem which remains a key symbol of the fair today! 1939- 1941, the fair expanded to include a livestock exhibit, cowboy breakfast, parade, and a queen and several princesses. Events were held in downtown Asotin, with FFA and 4-H groups playing an active role. After the War, the Fair added a rodeo held where Asotin High School’s football field now stands. In 1948, a cookshack for the cowboy breakfast was built in Asotin City Park.

The permanent fairgrounds was established on the hill south of Asotin in 1951. This first rodeo featured ten events, with local cowboys and youth competing. In 1960, the first exhibit hall, “TM Floch Hall,” was constructed followed by “Boyd Hall.” In 1964, the fair was officially renamed the Asotin County Fair and gained recognition from the State Fair Board.

The 2025 Asotin County Fair & Hells Canyon Rodeo is April 25-27, bringing a weekend packed with community fun, rodeo action, and time-honored traditions. With 4-H and FFA exhibits, fair food, carnival rides, and nonstop entertainment, there’s something for everyone! The action kicks off Friday night with the adrenaline-pumping Chaos in the Canyon Rough Stock Rodeo followed by live music by Coltrain Reloaded. Saturday morning the Cowboy Breakfast tradition continues, followed by the annual parade and another day Rodeo! For detailed schedules, admission prices, and the latest updates, visit asotincountyfairandrodeo.org.

Article written by: Asotin County