Wyoming State Fair Turns 120 — and Starts the Countdown to America’s 250th Birthday

Douglas is about to become the center of all things red, white, and blue as the Wyoming State Fair rolls into town Aug. 13–16. Not only is this the fair’s 120th year, but it’s also the official kickoff to the national countdown for America’s 250th birthday next year.

Fair General Manager Courtny Hines says this year is part of the Great American Fair Initiative — a nonpartisan, coast-to-coast celebration of agriculture, Americana, and everything fairs have brought to American life over the generations.

“You’ll see a heavy dose of patriotism,” Hines said. “And we’re proud to be part of it.”

Wednesday night kicks off the PRCA rodeo action with Tough Enough to Wear Pink night, raising funds for the Wyoming Breast Cancer Initiative. Thursday is Stars and Spurs Military Appreciation Night — the kind of event where you’d better bring your boldest red, white, and blue. Both nights promise top-tier rodeo athletes, powerhouse livestock, and high-energy production.

Friday night, the grandstand turns into a concert venue with Tris Munsick & The Innocents followed by Micky and the Motorcars. Every dollar from ticket sales goes to the State Fair Foundation, which funds scholarships, fairgrounds upgrades, and special projects. Buses from Casper will be running, so round up your crew.

The fair also features a Wyoming Singer-Songwriter Showcase all week, with local talent hitting the stage daily from Tuesday through Friday.

Saturday night, things get loud and messy with one of the best demolition derbies in the country. The Converse County Volunteer Fire Authority runs it, so your ticket also supports a good cause.

Longtime fair staples like old-fashioned ice cream, funnel cakes, and Jackalope Catering are back, joined by international flavors and a “Fair Food Flights” program — smaller portions of the most popular dishes so you can snack your way through without the post-fair food coma.

This year’s novelty highlight? Dock Dogs — a high-flying canine diving competition you can even enter your own pup in. Afterward, all that water gets repurposed for lawn irrigation.

And because you’re in Douglas, don’t forget to snap a pic with the giant jackalope in town or take part in the local jackalope sticker hunt, organized by Converse County tourism.

With patriotism, rodeos, live music, quirky contests, and plenty of fried goodness, this year’s fair isn’t just a party — it’s a warm-up lap for America’s 250th birthday bash.

With input from Wyoming Public Media and Sheridan Media.