Carnival & Fair News

The Deschutes County Fair & Rodeo celebrated its 105th year this season at the fairgrounds in Redmond, Oregon. Running from July 30 through August 3, the event was packed with entertainment and thrilling rodeo action.

Sales, marketing, and events coordinator Brandi Ebner said this year's fair was one of the most exciting yet.  “We have the most entertainment we've ever had,” she noted.

Even intermittent thunderstorms and rain showers didn't slow things down, with many activities simply relocated indoors.

Admission was $16 for adults and $12 for kids and seniors, while Sunday's rodeo was included at no additional charge. Unlimited ride wristbands, valid for one full day, were priced at $33.

From DJs and demolition derbies to carnival rides and fried fair treats, the event offered nonstop excitement alongside its signature rodeo competitions.

Rides and Attractions

This year's fair featured more than 40 carnival rides, ranging from classics like the Ferris Wheel and merry-go-round to thrill rides such as the Pineapple Express, Zipper, Sizzler, Spider, and Fireball. Ride operator Davis Shows NW offered two carnivals—one main area and a family-friendly “Familyville”—to provide more rides and shorter wait times.

Food and Vendors

Over 30 food vendors served a variety of favorites, from baked potatoes and tacos to the Oregon debut of Wahlburgers, Massachusetts' beloved burger chain. Fair staples like curly fries, corn dogs, cotton candy, mini donuts, funnel cakes, and lemonade remained crowd favorites.

Entertainment Highlights

Returning acts included Sea Lion Splash, the I-Flip Trampoline and Aerial Show, and the Clown College children's play area. J.D. Platt's K9 Kings Flying Dog Show once again delighted audiences, while Pacific Northwest Camels added a touch of the exotic.

New acts this year drew big crowds. The Birdman Wildlife Show, hosted by Joe Krathwhol, combined education with fun as he showcased raptors and other birds. Comedian and stunt performer Matt Baker brought high-energy laughs, and the Budweiser Clydesdales made a memorable appearance in support of Folds of Honor, a nonprofit that provides scholarships for families of fallen or disabled military members and first responders. According to Ebner, the fair helped raise $10,000 for the cause.

Other fresh acts included comedian Heather Pearl, the comedy-hypnosis duo Misty and the SandMan, and new roaming performers like jugglers, stilt walkers, and Arty the Circus Drummer, who impressed audiences with his behind-the-back stick catches.

Music and Concerts

Music filled the fairgrounds with performances by Awolnation, Diplo, La Original Banda El Limón, and Trey Songz, who stepped in for the originally scheduled Tyga. Concert entry was included with fair admission, while VIP seating ranged from $22 to $27, depending on the artist.

Exhibits and Competitions

The fair's competitive exhibits featured everything from baked goods and ceramics to photography and livestock. Naturally, animals were at the heart of the event, with competitions for cattle, sheep, and other livestock.

The 2025 Cascade Lakes Rodeo featured bull riding, barrel racing, team roping, and steer wrestling from Wednesday through Saturday. On Sunday, top high school rodeo athletes competed in the “Duel in the Desert” event, showcasing the best in Western youth talent.

Crowd Favorites and Closing Notes

For those who prefer horsepower over horsemanship, the Demolition Derby was a standout, drawing a packed crowd on Saturday night.

Fair & Expo Center director Geoff Hinds said, “We're always trying to make sure we're adding new attractions and keeping the fair fresh while honoring its 105-year history and tradition.”

Although final attendance numbers weren't available at press time, Saturday was reported as the busiest day despite brief bad weather. Attendance has grown significantly in recent years—nearly doubling from pre-pandemic levels under Hinds' leadership.

Hinds recently announced his departure after six years with the Expo Center to return to his home state of Wyoming, where he will join Cheyenne Frontier Days, the world's largest outdoor rodeo.

“I'm honored to have had the opportunity to work alongside a fantastic team at Deschutes County Fair & Expo and Deschutes County,” he said.

In addition to the fair and rodeo, Hinds oversaw major events such as Overland Expo PNW, several weekend-long music festivals including the FairWell Festival, and a new reggae festival. The Expo Center now hosts about 400 events each year, with the Fair & Rodeo remaining its signature celebration.