Press Release

01/29/2021

(COEUR D’ALENE, ID - Jan. 29, 2021) Last fall, the North Idaho State Fair came out with big news to expand the five-day annual fair to 10 days of fun in 2021.

The already internationally award-winning fair right here in Coeur d’Alene has been showcasing the community’s talents and bringing exceptional entertainment to families in the area for 98 years, all while keeping agricultural education and unique rural charm at the forefront.

Already the largest fair in North Idaho and the third-largest fair in the state, the North Idaho State Fair rivals many fairs in the industry. Packed full of world-class entertainment, professional rodeo and bull riding performances, a demolition derby, a country concert, record breaking exhibit entries and enhanced educational programs, you might ask, “Why mess with an already great program?”

Apart from 2020, in the last four out of five years the North Idaho State Fair has seen sold-out crowds and completely full parking. The guest experience plays a major role in the long-term success of the fair. It has been a topic of North Idaho State Fair Board conversations for several years to find a way to continue growth without losing sight of the mission. With the COVID-19 pandemic canceling the 2020 fair, moving forward in 2021 is critical for the future. It is also a window of opportunity to address the growth.

“It is our job not just to offer a great family experience, but to also continue to educate our community about the importance of agriculture,” fair general manager Alexcia Jordan said. “Now, it is also our job to create a fluid plan that adjusts as the pandemic changes. We know our community is ready to come together and we fully understand the significance of doing it as safely as possible.”

With the help of Panhandle Health District and local officials, the Fair Board and staff have created a plan to safely roll out the 2021 North Idaho State Fair and its arena shows.

“A safe and enjoyable experience is paramount in our planning,” Jordan said.

The addition of five days of fun will bring back open livestock shows and offer new arena shows. By diversifying the programing, the intent is to draw in new fair-goers. While people may only be coming for one specific event, the Fair Board sees this as an opportunity during their visit to creatively share more about the mission and traditions through other programming on the grounds.

Beginning Feb. 8, the North Idaho State Fair will begin announcing the 2021 lineup of grandstands entertainment in the Findlay Arena. The fair will open Aug. 20 and run through Aug. 29.

“This is an exciting time for the North Idaho State Fair,” Jordan said. “We are proud of the high caliber fair we have offered our guests in the past and look forward to this chance to evolve our attendance, exhibits and business relationships while still keeping our well-known rural charm. We’re eager to make memories with our community again.”