With a theme of “Generations of Champions,” the Boundary County Fair returns Aug. 5-9 with an expanded lineup of events, entertainment, and improvements that organizers hope will reinvigorate community involvement and attendance. 

“This is the biggest event of the year for our community,” Jaycee Atkins, Boundary County Fair manager, said. “And if I can keep making it bigger and better, I’m going to.” 

Among this year’s most anticipated additions is the “Bulls and Broncs” rodeo, scheduled for both Friday and Saturday evenings — marking the first time the rodeo has shared the same weekend as the fair. Tickets for “Bulls and Broncs” can be purchased in advance at the fair office or at the gate. 

Other highlights include returning favorites like the "goose chase” scavenger hunt, now paired with a new bingo-style version for those less tech-savvy. Atkins said the interactive challenges help people explore more of the fair and connect with exhibits in a fun, community-oriented way. 

New family-friendly attractions such as a paper airplane contest, putt-putt golf, and a hands-on nature art station have been added to bring more engagement for kids and families. The nature craft activity replaces the longtime veggie critters tradition, encouraging children to create artwork using found objects like pinecones and leaves. 

Saturday will feature two separate foam parties complete with a DJ and a maze. 

The mechanical bull ride, which was cut short last year due to rain, will return with improved availability. World champion hacky sack performer Peter Irish will also entertain crowds with live performances throughout the fair. 

To improve access and safety, the fairgrounds have introduced a one-way traffic pattern for vehicle entry and exit. Visitors are asked to enter via Fifth Street near the tennis courts and exit using Fourth Street. Parking lines have also been added to organize traffic flow and increase available space. A SPOT bus shuttle will run from the high school to the fairgrounds Wednesday through Saturday to ease congestion. 

In response to years of feedback, the fairgrounds are now equipped with two ATMs and offer debit and credit card payments. Also new this year is the Shed Center Bar, which is open from 1 to 9 p.m., the bar offers beer, wine, soda, and energy drinks. Guests must show ID to receive a wristband before purchasing alcohol, which can then be enjoyed throughout the fairgrounds. 

A new fair-wide sound system will ensure clear announcements across all areas of the grounds, including buildings like the auction barn that were previously hard to hear in. The upgrade is expected to improve communication for both safety and scheduling during the event. 

Atkins said she’s particularly excited to see how the community responds to the Saturday lineup, which includes the downtown parade, foam parties, concert, and rodeo. The parade itself, once considered for cancellation due to declining participation, now offers prizes to encourage local involvement. 

“I think this is a staple to Boundary County,” she said. “We’ve been here for 120 years, and we want another 120. I want the best for my community, my kids, my grandkids — and I’m going to do my very best.”