2026 Wyoming State Fair Official Guide

OFFICES LOCATED IN WYOMING, MONTANA, & SOUTH DAKOTA

2026 WSF brings Wyoming together to celebrate ag

The Wyoming State Fair (WSF) has always been more than an event – it is a gathering of our people, pride and shared story. Year after year, families travel from every corner of this great state to reconnect with one another and to celebrate what makes Wyoming so extraordinary.

We are honored to welcome everyone to the 114 th WSF.

Across Wyoming, there are men and women who pour their heart into everything they do – tending to livestock, tilling fields, crafting furniture, creating art and so much more. The WSF exists to honor this dedication.

Whether you’re a competitor stepping into the arena or a visitor walking the exhibit halls for the first time, you are here because this community matters and your presence makes it stronger.

This year’s fair brings together an outstanding collection of attractions, entertainment and exhibits reflecting both our heritage and our spirit of celebration. Enjoy the thrill of carnival rides, savor the flavors of classic fair food and take in the live performances that fill our fairgrounds with energy.

Don’t miss the Champion of Champions Showcase, where the finest market animals from across Wyoming’s counties

Riverton Riverton

Your base camp to adventure! Your base camp to adventure!

are recognized for the excellence behind them. Wander through our vendor areas, explore the exhibit halls, make time to appreciate the sheep wagons and enjoy the quiet reminders of the working heritage that built this state.

At its heart, WSF is about people. It’s about the handshake between old friends, the wonder on a child’s face and the memories families carry home long after the fairgrounds grow quiet. This is what has kept this tradition alive through more than a century of change.

Thank you for being part of it all. On behalf of the WSF Board of Directors, I warmly welcome you to the WSF. We’ll see you on the fairgrounds.

Shawn

Steffen 2025-26 WSF Board Chairman

Wyoming State Fair Board Members

Diana Berger – Southwest Wyoming

Lindsey Freeman – Southeast Wyoming

Sadie Eckley – Northwest Wyoming

Justin Mills – Northeast Wyoming

Jeremiah Darr – Converse County

Stacy Broda – Wyoming Vocational Ag Teachers Association (FFA)

Bryce Mackenzie – University of Wyoming Cooperative Extension (4-H)

Shawn Steffen, Chair – Energy Industry

Nick Neylon – State Parks and Cultural Resources

Dominic Bravo – Wyoming Tourism Board

Jill Tregemba – Wyoming Business Council

Doug Miyamoto – Wyoming Department of Agriculture

Kelly Crane, Ex-Officio – University of Wyoming College of Agriculture, Life Sciences and Natural Resources

Gov. Mark Gordon, Ex-Officio – State of Wyoming

Fair Administration

Courtny Hinds – General Manager

Ahnya Ivie-Moody – Partnerships and Events Coordinator

Sara Doyle – Exhibits Coordinator

Devin Finson – Vendors Coordinator

Kota Provence – Marketing and Communications

Rindy West – WSF Foundation Director

AJ Deines – Operations Supervisor

Frank Gorsuch – Facilities

Chris Becher – Assistant Operations

jordan pexton – Operations Support

james crawford – Operations Support

relationship building and youth competition

I still remember the excitement of coming to the Wyoming State Fair (WSF) as a kid to see friends, watch my dad rope and compete myself. Later, as a parent, I brought my daughters to exhibit and show.

WSF always brings together the best of our producers and county and state competitors. It provides an opportunity for guests to observe and honor our farmers, ranchers and hardworking families and kids from all over Wyoming.

The fair is truly a magical way to spend some precious late summer time doing good stuff.

This year, we celebrate the 114 th WSF and our nation’s 250 th birthday since the signing of the Declaration of Independence in 1776.

As always, attending WSF offers an opportunity to catch up with old friends and make some new memories.

Nothing is better than encouraging our neighbors and kids who are an integral part of WSF. It is a time to recognize the hard work and dedication of our exhibitors and competitors who train, prepare and show their animals and livestock.

From early morning feedings, halter breaking and cleaning pens and stalls to fitting the animals just right and showcasing their hard work, there is a lot of care on display.

Indoor exhibits feature photography, culinary, gardening and woodworking. It’s always fun to see the creativity, expertise and effort put into each project.

We are proud of the WSF, which is why we put as much dedication and effort into it as we do. We have a reputation to uphold.

I remember one livestock judge remarking during our 2020 fair when COVID-19 had shut down every other state fair in

the country, “This is exactly what America ought to be doing now.”

As a ranching family, Jennie and I appreciate the value and independence of agriculture. As stewards of the land, our farmers and ranchers sustain this vital industry, feeding our nation and preserving the open spaces and habitats essential for our state’s wildlife and the outdoor opportunities we all enjoy.

We recognize WSF serves as a platform for education, relationship building and youth competition, as well as cultivating the next generation of farmers and ranchers in Wyoming.

I hope you have time to enjoy a cold drink, soak in the sounds and smells that bring back fond memories and just have fun.

Special thanks and recognition goes out to the WSF Board of Directors and staff, volunteers and sponsors.

Everyone’s hard work and commitment is what makes our WSF and Rodeo a success each and every year.

I want to thank you for attending. Jennie and I look forward to the chance of visiting with everyone while they are here.

Mark Gordon Governor of Wyoming

WSF celebrates 250 years of American history

It is my honor to welcome you to the 2026 Wyoming State Fair (WSF), taking place Aug. 11-15 in Douglas.

This year, we join our nation in celebrating a truly remarkable milestone, the semiquincentennial of the U.S., marking 250 years of American history.

As I’ve reflected on this moment, I find myself drawn to the deep roots of our country as an agrarian society and the role fairs have played in shaping and celebrating this identity.

I am a firm believer fairs represent the very best of us. They are where we showcase the strength of our agricultural commodities, the innovation and talents of our friends and neighbors and the traditions which have been passed down through generations.

Fairs are where community comes to life, where history is honored and the future is inspired.

At WSF, our work is grounded in four core values – agriculture, youth, education and Western lifestyle. These pillars guide everything we do, from the opportunities we create for young

people, the way we celebrate and preserve our agricultural heritage and the experiences we design to reflect the spirit of the West.

As we celebrate this milestone year for our nation, I invite you to join us for what will truly be a Great American State Fair. Here in Wyoming, this means gathering together to celebrate these shared values while showcasing the very best of our state and its people.

Whether you are exhibiting, competing, cheering from the stands or simply soaking in the sights, sounds and flavors of fairtime, you are a part of something bigger. You are part of a tradition reflecting the spirit of America and the heart of Wyoming.

It is a true privilege to serve our great state as your fair manager, and I look forward to welcoming you to Douglas this August. Let’s gather, celebrate, share and make memories that will last a lifetime.

I hope to see you at the fair.

Plains Legends of the Plains

Courtny Hinds WSF General Manager

On behalf of the entire community of Douglas, it is my pleasure to welcome each and every guest, competitor and exhibitor joining us for this year’s Wyoming State Fair (WSF).

Douglas has a story inseparable from the land and the industries this fair celebrates.

When our town was founded in 1886 with the arrival of the railroad, it quickly grew into a cornerstone of Wyoming’s sheep and cattle trades.

More than a century later, the same agricultural spirit lives on in the fairgrounds just down the road, and we could not be more proud to call ourselves the home of the WSF.

As you walk the grounds, I hope you take a moment to appreciate how deeply these traditions are still woven into everyday life here.

The exhibit halls offer a window into the craftsmanship and creativity of our communities, from beautifully baked goods

Town of Douglas welcomes fairgoers prca Rodeo

and handcrafted needlework to vibrant garden produce. The livestock shows remind us of the hard work and dedication 4-H and FFA participants pour into their projects year after year. And the food court? Well, it is agriculture doing exactly what it is meant to do – bringing people together and feeding them well.

Beyond the fairgrounds, we invite you to explore Douglas and experience the warmth which defines our small corner of Wyoming.

Whether you are here for a grandstand show, a ribbon competition or simply to soak it all in, we are glad you made the trip.

On behalf of the Douglas community, we hope your time here is filled with fun, learning and lasting memories. Welcome to our home, and welcome to the 114th WSF.

Kim Pexton Mayor of Douglas

August 13-14 7:00 PM

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2026 Wyoming Agriculture Hall of Fame Hamilton selected as Ag HOF inductee

The Wyoming Agriculture Hall of Fame (HOF) has been honoring Wyoming’s agricultural leaders since 1992, and this year, Ken Hamilton of Laramie has been selected as one of two 2026 inductees.

A lifelong agriculturist, Hamilton grew up raising sheep and cattle on the Hamilton Ranch near Hyattville.

Following graduation from Manderson-Hyattville High School, Hamilton attended Northwest College in Powell.

From 1980-81, he participated in an exchange program between the American Farm Bureau Federation (AFBF) and Agricultural Investments of Australia.

He graduated from the University of Wyoming (UW) with a bachelor’s degree in animal science in 1982.

In 1983, Hamilton began working with the Wyoming Farm Bureau Federation (WyFB) as a research and field assistant.

Hamilton assumed the role of WyFB executive vice president in 2004, serving as an agricultural advocate at both the state and national levels for two decades.

Throughout his impressive 41year career, Hamilton served terms as president of the Wyoming Capitol Club and Wyoming Society of Association Executives, as well as a member of the UW College of Agriculture, Life Sciences and Natural Resources (CALSNR) Advisory Board.

Hamilton was honored with the UW CALSNR Outstanding Alumni Award in 2015 and with the WyFB Distinguished Service Award in 2018.

His years of leadership with WyFB have left a lasting impression since his retirement in 2024.

In a nomination letter, WyFB Executive Vice President Kerin Clark highlights Hamilton’s unwavering dedication to people and policy.

“Throughout his career, Hamilton had the unique opportunity to represent farmers and ranchers through a variety of issues in the legislature,” Clark writes. “From transportation and water issues to raging

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wildfires and endangered species issues, he worked alongside Wyoming’s farmers and ranchers for decades to ensure their voices were heard.”

WyFB President Todd Fornstrom also expresses his respect for Hamilton, highlighting his honesty, integrity, dedication and loyalty throughout his tenure.

“Hamilton has dedicated his career to the agriculture industry in Wyoming,” Fornstrom writes. “His tenure for WyFB has been a testament to the way of life we in agriculture hold in high regard.”

In addition to his accomplishments in ag advocacy, Hamilton’s strengths as a mentor and leader have not gone unnoticed.

“Hamilton is a humble, quiet and effective leader who has given much of himself, his time and his knowledge for the betterment of Wyoming agriculture,” comments Clark.

U.S. Rep. Harriet Hageman (R-WY) notes Hamilton has served as a mentor to her and many others, stating, “Hamilton has built a legacy of integrity, professionalism and dedication to our state. Our ag industry, now and for generations to come, is stronger because of him.”

In retirement, Hamilton remains an active community member and ally for Wyoming’s agricultural industry.

He and his wife Kathy live in Laramie, where he serves on the Ivinson Memorial Hospital Foundation Board of Directors.

Hamilton will be recognized for a lifetime of dedication to Wyoming’s agriculture industry during the Wyoming Agriculture HOF Picnic, held at 5 p.m. on Aug. 12 at Riverside Park in Douglas.

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2026 Wyoming Agriculture Hall of Fame

Eisele tapped for Wyoming Ag HOF

The Wyoming Livestock Roundup is pleased to announce Mark Eisele of Cheyenne has been selected as one of two inductees to join an elite list of honorees in the Wyoming Agriculture Hall of Fame (HOF).

Like many in the ag industry, Eisele’s story began with a seed of determination, cultivated through years of hard work, grit and a willingness to take risks.

Although both of his parents came from ranching families, he built much of his own livestock business from the ground up, starting with just four cows and limited equipment.

Lifelong skills learned through hard work, renting and leasing and calculated risk management ultimately led Eisele to the historic King Ranch near Cheyenne where he first worked as an employee before eventually acquiring the operation.

Today, Eisele, his wife Trudy and their three adult children run Red and Black Angus cow/calf pairs and retained yearlings marketed through branded beef programs. The family also manages a custom

haying operation and harvests both alfalfa and native grass hay on private and deeded land.

Throughout his career, Eisele has maintained healthy rangelands are the foundation of a successful cattle operation, and he has embraced research, innovation and science-based management practices to improve both livestock production and land stewardship.

According to Justin Derner, research leader for the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s (USDA) Agricultural Research Service Rangeland Resources and Systems Research Unit, King Ranch has partnered with the department for over 20 years on research projects addressing a wide range of topics, and Eisele has worked to ensure this research reaches producers on the ground.

The Eisele family’s stewardship efforts have earned widespread recognition, including the Wyoming Stock Growers Association (WSGA) Environmental Stewardship Award and the Leopold Conservation Award in 2015.

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More recently, Eisele received the 2023 Kurt Bucholz Conservation Award and the 2025 Chuck Jarecki Rancher Land Stewardship Award presented by the International Society for Range Management.

Eisele has also spent considerable time serving the broader cattle industry as well.

WSGA was one of many organizations Eisele became actively involved in, eventually serving as president from 2011-13 after previously chairing the association’s Environmental Stewardship Committee and serving as Region Two vice president.

In addition, Eisele helped establish the Wyoming Stock Growers Land Trust and the Pole Mountain Grazing Association, and after years of committee work within the National Cattlemen’s Beef Association, Eisele was elected president for the 2024-25 term.

Closer to home, Eisele is deeply involved in his local community.

He and his family have long supported the Laramie County 4-H and Kiwanis FFA livestock shows and sales, the Wyoming Hunger Initiative’s Food from the Farm and Ranch program, youth shooting sports, hunter and angler access programs, local law enforcement and numerous community organizations.

Eisele owns the Otto Road Shooting Range, which donates proceeds to multiple charitable entities, and he is an active participant in several car clubs, which aim to give back to local charities like the Cheyenne Animal Shelter and Toys for Tots.

Eisele will be recognized for his decades of service to the industry during the Wyoming Agriculture HOF Picnic, held at 5 p.m. on Aug. 12 at Riverside Park in Douglas.

Laramie Plains Museum at the Historic Ivinson Mansion

Umbach selected as 2026 WAIC Educator of the Year

Kelly Umbach, a third-grade teacher at Verda James Elementary School in Casper, has been selected as the Wyoming Agriculture in the Classroom (WAIC) 2026 Educator of the Year.

Umbach is an active participant in WAIC’s curriculum, utilizing Wyo Wonders lessons in her classroom, encouraging students to enter the Bookmark and Beyond contest and participating in summer workshops.

She encourages hands-on learning, utilizing lessons to promote agricultural literacy and environmental stewardship.

By integrating these materials and lessons, she empowers her students to be citizens who understand and appreciate their home state and their responsibilities as good stewards of Wyoming.

Verda James Elementary School Principal Jodi Frazier stated, “I can think of no educator more worthy of this recognition. Umbach lives the values WAIC promotes and has made a profound, lasting impact on students, families and fellow educators throughout our community. Please accept this letter as my strongest endorsement of her nomination.”

As the 2026 Educator of the Year, Umbach will be awarded a cash prize of $5,000 through WAIC, and the award is funded by the Vermillion Ranch.

USA celebrates 250 years of freedom and American ag

Across the U.S., communities have spent the summer commemorating 250 years since the nation’s Founding Fathers signed the Declaration of Independence.

For U.S. farmers and ranchers, America 250 is also an opportunity to recognize the hard-working, resilient individuals who have fed, clothed and sustained the nation since its very beginning.

From colonial farmsteads to high-tech modern-day operations, American agriculture has played a central role in this nation’s story.

When the Declaration of Independence was signed in 1776, agriculture was the backbone of daily life, and most Americans lived and worked on family farms, raising livestock, growing crops and producing the food and fiber they needed to survive.

Over the next two and a half centuries, innovations like the cotton gin, the steel plow, gas-powered tractors, biotechnology and precision agriculture transformed American agriculture into one of the most productive industries in the world.

Today, the U.S. remains a global leader in ag, with 1.87 million farms sprawling 873.95 million acres of farmland, according to U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) 2025 data.

USDA notes the U.S. is a top producer of corn, soybeans, wheat, cotton, beef, poultry, pork, dairy, fruits, vegetables and tree nuts.

To honor the country’s robust ag industry, USDA and federal officials made a concerted effort to ensure ag was at the forefront of America 250 celebrations this summer.

Through the Freedom 250 initiative, the department launched the Great American Rodeo, the Great American Farmers Market and the Great American State Fair.

One of the largest celebrations held this summer was the Great American State Fair, a 16-day exposition held at the National Mall in Washington, D.C. featuring exhibits representing all 56 U.S. states and territories in what organizers described as a “modern-day World’s Fair celebrating the people, traditions, innovations and spirit that make America the greatest nation on Earth.”

Outside of Washington, D.C., celebrations took place in nearly every corner of the country.

Historic cities such as Philadelphia; Boston and Williamsburg, Va. hosted expanded Independence Day programming, while state fairs, county fairs, museums, national parks and historical sites incorporated America 250 themes into competitions, exhibits and entertainment.

In Wyoming, the semiquincentennial is being celebrated under the theme “A Declaration of Imagination,” and Wyoming 250 invites residents and visitors to take part in its year-long celebration featuring fun events, educational activities and cultural festivities across the state.

“As we commemorate the ideals and patriotism the U.S. was founded upon, Wyoming’s 250th celebrations are taking shape to highlight our state’s unique history and heritage,” states Gov. Mark Gordon.

Although the Fourth of July marked the centerpiece of America 250 celebrations, festivities are far from over in the Cowboy State.

The Wyoming State Fair invites visitors of all ages to take part in multiple Americana-themed activities planned throughout the week to celebrate this great nation and the industry that shaped it.

Converse County Conservation District staff will be in the Wyoming Livestock Roundup Tent during the week of fair. Drop by to talk to us about conservation efforts, future projects, or just to escape the heat. There is always ice cold water in the tent!

Converse County Conservation District will have daily drawings for a lawn and garden bag. Put in a free entry every day for your chance to win!

Champion of Champions Showcase crowns Wyoming’s

The 2025 Champion of Champions Showcase was held on Aug. 12, 2025 at the Wyoming State Fairgrounds in Douglas, where four elite animals were officially deemed the best of the

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Champion Beef – Exhibited by Brystoll Gines, Farson

Champion Goat – Exhibited by Rylee Lesher, Gillette

best by Judge Madison Schroeder.

During the showcase, Schroeder sorted through some of the best livestock the Cowboy State has to offer, crowning champions across the four major livestock species – beef, goats, swine and sheep.

In the beef show, Brystoll Gines of Sweetwater County took home grand champion honors, followed by a tie between Tavie Miller of Converse County and Trexx Day of Uinta County.

The champion goat was exhibited by Rylee Lesher of Campbell County, and the reserve champion goat was exhibited by

AGRICULTURE

Shanna Stinson of Albany County.

In the swine show, Reece West of Laramie County exhibited the grand champion hog, followed by Wyatt Gorzalka of Sheridan County with the reserve champion hog.

To round out the showcase, a lamb exhibited by Garrett Burkett of Natrona County was crowned champion, followed by Brylee Styvar of Campbell County with the reserve champion lamb.

The 2026 WSF Champion of Champions Showcase is slated for Aug. 15.

Fairgoers are encouraged to stop by the beef show ring and see Wyoming’s best compete for some of the most prestigious titles WSF has to offer.

Champion Swine – Exhibited by Reece West, Cheyenne

Champion Sheep – Exhibited by Garrett Burkett, Evansville

Breakaway roping moved to an evening performance

Three years after the event made its debut at the 2023 Wyoming State Fair (WSF), breakaway roping will move from Tuesday morning to the evening of Wednesday, Aug. 12.

Over the years, breakaway roping has brought dozens of ropers and their families to Douglas to enjoy fast-paced action and vie for a winning title in their respective division.

The competition pits participants against one another for the fastest time and is open to all genders.

“There will be some Professional Rodeo Cowboys Association and Women’s Professional Rodeo Association ropers there, and our youth competition is open to both boys and girls too,” WSF Board Chairman Shawn Steffen states.

Additionally, Steffen notes, while ropers are required to

pay an entry fee, the event is free and open to the public.

He also points out the event was moved to fill an open slot in the grandstand schedule, which organizers hope will help draw a larger crowd.

With this new date, Steffen also wants to make sure participants are aware of the new deadline to enter.

“Enter at 5 p.m. and rope at 6 p.m. – that’s the key,” he says. “Participants enter on site.”

As in previous years, WSF is expecting plenty of tough competition and exciting action at this year’s breakaway roping.

The performance kicks off at 6 p.m. on Aug. 12. Be sure to come early and enjoy the talent on display.

DROUGHT AND OTHER NATURAL DISASTER PROGRAMS

The USDA’s Farm Service Agency (FSA) provides a suite of online toolkits and calculators to help ranchers and farmers navigate disaster assistance, estimate potential compensation, and document losses caused by severe drought and other natural disasters.

OTHER HELPFUL PROGRAMS AND SERVICES

FARMERS.GOV

Manage your business online and stay up to date by subscribing to receive free email and text message communications directly from your local USDA Service Center.

LOGIN.GOV

Sign in service that gives people secure online access to FSA and NRCS programs and streamlines application processes.

AVERAGE ADJUSTED GROSS INCOME

(AGI) - Producers are now exempt from the $900,000 AGI cap for conservation and disaster programs if at least 75% of their average gross income is from farming, ranching, or silviculture, which now includes agritourism, direct-to-consumer sales, and certain equipment sales.

Paid for by the Friends of John Barrasso

Town Purple

ROCK THE

GLEN

Check out these fun events throughout the summer in Glenrock!

2026 Summer Concert Series • All events open at 8:00 pm

July 31

Limberlost and Alive 85

August 15

Sylance

Theater Thursday MOVIE NIGHT

Starting at 8:00 pm

July 30

Freakier Friday August 6 Hoppers

August 13

Mario Galaxy Movie August 7 Disciple August 22 Ashley Wineland

Thanks to all our sponsors for these events!

WYOMING STATE FAIR Historical Facts

1905-1909

The grandstand cost $500 and a Cheyenne firm got the bid for plumbing at $350.

Clark Brothers were contracted to build a grandstand with a roof, exhibition hall, two horse stables, one cattle and one sheep shed, a poultry house and 2/3 to 3/4 a mile of board fence.

1910-1919

The local church women were in charge of feeding all of the people.

A Cheyenne man coordinated police protection with a sheriff, deputy, marshall and five extras, as well as four officers employed by the Fair Commission.

1915 – WSF constructed an addition to the Arts and Crafts Building, permitting additional space for agricultural exhibits.

1913 – An agricultural exhibit hall was built at a cost of $20,000.

1920-1929

Entry cost $1 per team or single buggy and 75 cents for saddled horses in 1905.

Housing: Rented a huge tent with 1,000 cots; 1,000 pillows and 1,500 pairs of blankets. The wool warehouse housed 1,500 cots; McComb Paint Shop housed 40 cots and the Tom Bamford housed 20 or more.

1916 – Baxter Adams (1885-1951) performed loop-the-loops in his airplane. 1916 – Motorcycle races were incorporated.

1917 – WSF featured Girl in Red on the diving horse and had a garden in support of WWI. Another popular event was the return of Baxter Adams when he raced his plane against an automobile circling the track.

1920 – Pioneer men and women met to have sixth annual old timer gathering. This was special because heroes of WWI came to the reunion.

1920s – “Of the people, by the people, for the people.” WSF exhibitors only showed four types of animals – horses, cows, sheep and pigs, and general admission was 50 cents.

1930-1939

1923 – WSF featured a Wild West Show and state fair championships in golf, tennis, horseshoes and old-time fiddlers.

1922 – Free to enter the grounds.

1930 – Gov. Frank Emerson dug the first spade of dirt for the building of the new 4-H Club.

1930s – The “magnificent wildlife display” began, as well as the “gigantic military maneuvers.” A horseshoe throwing contest was added.

1940-1949

1940 – Construction of dairy barn, sales ring and sheep barn took place.

From 1905-22 the direct supervision of activities was done by the State Board of Charities and Reform.

Four ladies race was a big event with 18 heats over the three days of fair.

1925 – WSF featured the First Health Conference where children under 16 could be examined and adults could hear lectures on infant and child feeding and care, habit formation and undernourishment.

1924 – A state championship baseball tournament was added as an attraction.

1935-36 – There was no WSF during the Great Depression.

1931 – There were only 10 county fairs in Wyoming and turkey production increased from $25,000 in 1921 to more than $1,000,000 in 1931.

1942 – Governor pushes for people to come to state fair because of war. He said, in brief, people are not able to take long vacations because of the shortage of rubber and the need for them to stay at work so they should come to WSF for one day because it is in their own state. This fair was ultimately canceled due to WWII.

1926 – New grandstands and a new pioneer building were built. WSF had a booth with free literature and a demonstration on “proper and improper clothes for high school girls.”

A Premium Book was printed but not used.

1937 – All of the preparations were made for this fair, but no state fair happened because of the presence of infantile paralysis (polio) in certain sections of the state during fair season.

1948 – The World Famous Abi-Bekr Shrine White Horse Mounted Patrol appeared as special entertainment.

1943-45 – No state fair because of World War II.

1950-1959

1952 – Admission raised to 75 cents.

1950s – Admission was raised 10 cents to 60 cents. Construction took place on the 4-H building and museum.

1938 – First mention of the baby show and contest in the Premium Book.

1949 – Another day was added to WSF due to population increase.

1955 – The State Legislature appropriated funds to construct and equip a new building on the state fairgrounds in Douglas to house the Wyoming Pioneer Memorial Museum. Along with this, admission drops back to 50 cents.

1954 – FFA dorms completed.

WYOMING STATE FAIR Historical Facts

1960-1969

1962 – 50th Celebration.

1960 – Admission was 50 cents.

1970-1979

1979 – 32,000 people attended the WSF and admission was $1. Fairgoers celebrated the American Revolution Bicentennial – a reenactment of the wagon train ride from Newcastle to Douglas by way of Fort Laramie.

1990-1999

1966 – 75 cent admission.

1965 – WSF hosted the 75 years of Wyoming statehood celebration where the Wyoming Pioneers were honored. The fair opened with the arrival of a wagon train from Newcastle where 60 wagons and 200 or more people left Newcastle six or seven days before the fair and followed old trails to Douglas. The Saddle Tramps rode from Cheyenne to Douglas and 1890s music played as night entertainment with famous Laubin Indian Dancers.

1992 – WSF broke all attendance levels and the cafeteria was named “McKibben Cafeteria.” Along with this, budget cuts called for show cancellations.

1990 – WSF held the Wyoming Centennial Celebration and started a day early for all the celebrations. Wyoming held its first bison show and sale. It was the first of its kind and no other state had anything like it.

2000-2009

2008 – The equine center was completed.

2006 – The Living Legacy Program was started to restore the canopy. The Livestock Pavilion and Show Center were completed.

2010-2019

2010 – A new statue dedicated outside of the Equine Center.

2020-2026

2011 – Pathway to Water quality was being developed.

1968 – The Arts and Crafts Building burned and was replaced by a new metal building. Also, a new building to house the wool show and an open sheep barn were added to help provide needed space at the expanding fair. There was a special guest performance by “Royal Tahitian,” which showcased authentic and spell binding native dancers.

1980-1989

1980 – The new grandstands were completed.

1994 – New entry to the grounds was completed and a bronze statue was donated by Wyoming Rural Electric Association.

1993 – The Pioneer Museum was remodeled, the sheep barn got a “new look” and a free stage was added. There was a celebration of the Oregon Trail sesquicentennial and the fair was shortened.

2011 – The alpaca show started.

2011 – Wyoming Mercantile opened.

2020 – Amid nationwide COVID-19 restrictions, the WSF moved forward with hosting its annual event, becoming one of only a few fairs in the country to do so. It stood as the only large-scale agricultural event held in Wyoming that year, with full support from Gov. Mark Gordon.

2020 – The WSF underwent a comprehensive rebrand, unveiling a new logo and establishing a cohesive visual identity including updated brand elements, such as colors, fonts and design mechanics.

1981– Special guest Reba McEntire performed in the grandstands.

1987– The 75th Celebration of the Wyoming State Fair.

1983 – The girls dorm and cafeteria were completed.

1996 – The food court area was expanded and remodeled, adding seating and shade.

1995 – A new roof was put on the beef/sheep complex, new sheep pens were constructed, and the boys and girls dorms were remodeled. “Strolling acts” were added to the fair and Neal McCoy performed.

2018 – The WSF Endowment was passed by the Wyoming Legislature to provide a more stable and consistent funding avenue for the future of the Wyoming State Fairgrounds and Event Complex.The money in the account earns interest, with 25% of the funds generated going to the Wyoming State Fairgrounds and Event Complex to support the fair and year-round operations, while the remaining 75% is reinvested into the endowment to continue growing the account.

2012 – The 100th WSF. The Royal Canadian Mounted Police’s musical ride made its first appearance in Wyoming.

2023 – The WSF was awarded the Mountain States Circuit Small Rodeo of the Year award.

2021 – The WSF took the production of the PRCA Rodeo in house.

1999 – “Wyoming’s First” pavilion showcasing Wyoming Made Products was added.

– The WSF

Board appointed their first General Manager Courtny Hinds. Her hiring also marked a historic milestone as she became the first woman to hold the position in the fair’s long-standing history.

2018 – Legislation assigned a governing board compiled of members from around the state to oversee the fairground operations.

2023 – The WSF shifted away from its traditional headlining concert in the Ford Grandstand, exploring new entertainment options aimed at boosting attendance. In its place, the fair introduced Figure-8 Races, which were hosted for two consecutive years.

2024 – Wyoming Legislators put forth a $500,000 Match Fund Campaign for the WSF Endowment.

2023 – The WSF hires its first Marketing and Communications Liaison Kota Provence to oversee the brand.

2023 – The WSF launches the Everyday Ag program –an ag education initiative co-produced by Kota Provence and Courtny Hinds.

2026 – America celebrates 250th birthday.

2024 – The WSF hires its first Fundraising and Revenue Director Rindy West.

2019

Governing

Prisoner of War

DURING World War II, Douglas was home to W y oming’s p rimary prisoner of war camp, a massive and largely self-sufficient facility that played a significant role in the state’s wartime history.

Today, the last remaining structure from the original camp is the Officers’ Club, preserved as the Camp Douglas Officers’ Club State Historic Site. Inside, visitors can view artifacts, military uniforms and equipment, as well as 16 remarkable murals painted directly onto the walls by Italiam prisoners between 1943 and 1944. 115

S. Riverbend • Douglas

Prepare yourself for an agricultural career with on-campus and online options in Agribusiness, Agricultural Communications, Agriculture, Animal Science Technology, Animal Science, Ranch and Agrotourism Management, and Range Management.

These are just a few of the more than 130 degree and certificate options Casper College offers across a wide range of academic and technical subjects. Whether you’re looking to earn credits, work toward your degree, pick up a new skill, or qualify for a new job, you’re sure to find the program you’re looking for.

Call 307-268-2424 or visit caspercollege.edu/program/agriculture

Contact Jeremy Burkett for details and to learn more at 307-268-2417 or jeremy.burkett@caspercollege.edu.

Grand Champion Market Beef – Exhibited by Kyle Fox, Kemmerer

Reserve Champion Market Beef – Exhibited by Harper Shepard, Wheatland

Grand Champion Market Lamb – Exhibited by Jorie Miller, Newcastle

Reserve Champion Market Lamb – Exhibited by Brylee Styvar, Gillette

Grand Champion Market Swine – Exhibited by Riley West, Cheyenne

Reserve Champion Market Swine – Exhibited by Reece West, Cheyenne

Grand Champion Market Goat – Exhibited by Chloe Wardell, Sheridan Reserve Champion Market Goat – Exhibited by Rylee Lesher, Gillette

Supreme Champion Female and Champion Hereford Female – Exhibited by Cooper Miller, Newcastle

Supreme Champion Bull and Champion Angus Bull –Exhibited by Hadley Cooper, Powell

Celebrating county fairs, an American tradition

From Ferris wheels and funnel cakes to livestock shows and static exhibits, county fairs are a beloved American tradition offering something for everyone to enjoy.

A classic summertime celebration of community and culture, county fairs have a rich and vibrant history dating back more than two centuries.

According to research compiled by the International Association of Fairs and Expos (IAFE), the first county fair in the U.S. was held in Massachusetts in 1811.

The concept of the county fair was initiated by Elkanah Watson, a New England patriot and farmer known as the “father of U.S. agricultural fairs” who organized the Berkshire Agricultural Society and created an event called the Cattle Show in Pittsfield, Mass. in September 1811.

This fair was an agricultural showcase and a competition, featuring a $70 prize for the best exhibits of oxen, cattle, swine and sheep.

County fairs grew in popularity throughout the 19 th cen -

tury, adapting more elements like cooking contests, craft displays and public lectures while keeping livestock shows as a primary attraction.

In the early 1900s, fairs began to expand live entertainment options and by the mid-20 th century, grandstand events including demolition derbies, horse races and live music became staples of the annual county fair.

After World War II, economic growth in the U.S., combined with fast-growing popularity of organizations like 4-H and FFA, led county fairs to experience a golden age in the 1950-60s.

Today, more than 2,000 county fairs are held annually across the U.S.

As fewer Americans live on farms, county fairs offer an engaging and entertaining way to get involved with agriculture. The defining pillars of agriculture, competition and community remain at the core of modern county fairs, where communities join together and future generations of agriculturists grow through time-honored American traditions.

L to R: Eric Audiss, Brenda Bathke, Aimee Schaefer, Kara Johnson, Virginia Ernst, Breanna Nelson, Amy Bussmuss-Puepke, Ray Trudeau, Mandy Synhorst, Chris Nelson, Elizabeth Larson, Kristen Velez, Colton Tobin, Nikki Bialas, Brea Baumgart & Lisa Christopher

carnival Midway Attractions

August 11-15, 2026

wsf makes changes to 2026 grandstand lineup

Longstanding attendees of the Wyoming State Fair (WSF) might notice some changes to this year’s grandstand lineup.

Key changes include an absence of Figure-8 racing and moving breakaway roping from Tuesday morning to Wednesday night, which also shifts the Professional Rodeo Cowboys Association (PRCA) rodeo to Thursday and Friday nights.

On Aug. 13, the first night of PRCA rodeo action will kick off at 6 p.m. with pre-show mutton bustin’. The theme of the night will focus on the people, traditions and generations who have shaped rodeo over the last 250 years.

On Aug. 14, the rodeo will start at 6:30 p.m., with a Miss Rodeo Wyoming pre-show and a theme focused on the youth, families and agricultural traditions that continue to be a part of rodeo.

Admission is $20 for each performance or $30 for both.

Returning to the grandstand lineup this year will be the Wyoming Ranch Rodeo Finals, set for Aug. 11 at 6:30 p.m., and the ever-popular demolition derby at 6 p.m. on Aug. 15.

Check out a complete schedule of WSF entertainment on page 63.

The Wyoming State Fair (WSF) is getting some fresh hands this year to keep the show rolling.

Throughout the years, help has come via the F.A.I.R. Posse, which will be dissolved this year, and the WSF Foundation has created a new entity to fill the mighty shoes of what was.

WSF Development Director Rindy West states, “The Wranglers were formed in late spring. The F.A.I.R. Posse will be dissolving, and

October 9,

the Wranglers will be taking its place.”

Though the group’s purpose is to help during WSF, they will also be helping year-round, West said.

“When we formed the new volunteer group, it didn’t have an official title and was named the Wranglers after a vote,” West explains. “The program is set up to fulfill the needs of WSF and assist throughout the rest of the year.”

ENJOY THE WYOMING STATE FAIR!

to all participating this week!

REPUBLICAN PRIMARY: AUGUST 18TH

OUR LAND IS NOT FOR SALE

Washington insiders want to sell off Wyoming’s public lands. Eric Barlow has two words for them: not happening. A 4th-generation rancher, Eric knows our public lands are where we graze, hunt, ride, work, and raise our families. He’ll make sure Wyoming has the final say.

WYOMING BELONGS TO US

People who don’t know our roads, our towns, or our way of life want to decide what Wyoming becomes with outside money and outside agendas. Eric Barlow won’t let them. He was born here, raised here, served here, and he’ll answer to Wyoming.

Too many of us use a half tank of gas just to access a doctor. Rural care is stretched thin, and small towns are paying the price. Eric Barlow has fought for healthcare in the Legislature. He’ll bring hospitals, providers, EMS, and local leaders together to save rural healthcare the Wyoming way.

Glenrock Paleon Museum

Local Restaurants

Douglas Railroad Museum Convenient

Ayres Natural Bridge Park

2026 Legacy of the Land Celebration

Join

WHEN | Saturday, August 22, 2026 4:00PM - 9:00PM

WHERE | Barn at Elk Hollow 6606 WY-130 Unit C Saratoga, WY 82331

PURCHASE TICKETS | Scan the QR code or call the office at 307.772.8751

Please RSVP by August 12, 2026

CONSERVED RANCH TOUR |

Spend the day with the Land Trust Conservation Team visiting conserved Carbon County properties!

AUG. 22 | 9:00AM - 2:00PM

Secure your spot (free of charge) using the QR code above!

Wyoming state fair showcases Cowboy State culture at national celebration

As part of the nationwide celebration of America’s 250 th anniversary, the Great American State Fair took place on the National Mall in Washington, D.C. from June 25 through July 10.

Wyoming was well-represented by members of Wyoming State Fair (WSF) staff who brought Cowboy State culture to the national stage.

An initiative of Freedom 250, the Great American State Fair invited all 56 U.S. states and territories to come together on the National Mall and take part in a once-in-a-generation celebration.

Freedom 250 described the event as “a world-class exposition and modern-day World’s Fair celebrating the people, traditions, innovations and spirit that make America the greatest

nation on Earth.”

“Featuring more than 150 exhibits from all 56 states and territories, businesses, innovators and civic organizations, the Great American State Fair will showcase the very best of America through state pavilions, industry displays, family-friendly attractions, movie screenings, musical performances, military ensembles, spectacular flyovers, daily cultural programming and an iconic Ferris wheel on the National Mall,” the Freedom 250 website stated.

WSF General Manager Courtny Hinds oversaw operations of the Wyoming pavilion as part of a 10-person team representing the

Continued on next page

Wyoming Way – The best of Cowboy State culture was on display at the Wyoming pavilion during the Great American State Fair in Washington, D.C. The booth was made possible by contributions from Wyoming State Fair staff, the governor’s office and the Wyoming Office of Tourism, among other collaborators. Courtny Hinds photo

Cowboy State at the Great American State Fair.

“Wyoming is proud to represent our state in Washington, D.C. as part of America’s 250th celebration,” Hinds said. “Our pavilion is a celebration of the history, grit and authenticity that defines Wyoming. It was an opportunity to share not only where we come from but our way of life, and we invite the world to come experience the Wyoming way.”

Wyoming’s primary industries – energy, tourism and agriculture – were all on display at the pavilion, highlighted through a variety of hands-on activities including hat shaping demonstrations, roping lessons, a virtual reality Cheyenne Frontier Days experience and exhibits on critical commodities like wool and coal.

Wyoming’s participation in the Great American Fair served as the culmination of roughly a year of planning and collaborative efforts anchored by WSF, the governor’s office, Wyoming State Parks and Cultural Resources and the Wyoming Office of Tourism, in partnership with statewide agencies, organizations and industry leaders across Wyoming.

Opening day alone brought an estimated 15,000 people to the Wyoming pavilion, according to Hinds, and overall attendance soared to impressive heights.

U.S. Sen. John Barrasso (R-WY) made an appearance at the Wyoming booth on opening day. In an interview with Cowboy State Daily , Barrasso praised the work of the Wyoming Office of Tourism and WSF.

“We have people from the department of tourism and from our state fair all putting Wyoming’s best face forward in an effort

Continued on next page

First State Bank

a proud supporter

Lasso lessons – Visitors to the Wyoming pavilion at the Great American State Fair had the opportunity to try their hand at roping a dummy with the help of volunteers.

Courtny Hinds photo

Industry education – During the Great American State Fair, visitors to the Wyoming pavilion learned about some of the Cowboy State’s critical exports like coal and agriculture. Here, Wyoming State Fair General Manager Courtny Hinds smiles for a photo with a group of fairgoers. Courtny Hinds photo

National celebration – The Great American State Fair was a showcase of American heritage running from June 25 through July 10 in Washington, D.C. as part of the nation’s 250th anniversary celebration. Pictured is the Wyoming banner in front of the Ferris wheel on the National Mall. Courtny Hinds photo

to make people realize what it’s like to come to Wyoming and

see the rugged outdoors,” Barrasso told Cowboy State Daily Reporter Sean Barry.

“If they want to visit Wyoming, they’re going to find the vision, the ideals, the spirit and the image, as well as the traditions of the Old West,” Barrasso added.

Hinds further highlighted the extraordinary display of American pride at the event, noting the event was “patriotic without feeling political.”

“This is what America is all about,” she concluded.

TUESday, AuGUST 11

Rotary Club to shutter doors after this year’s WSF

After the 2026 Wyoming State Fair (WSF) and 45 years of operation, the iconic Douglas Rotary Club booth will be closing down.

After its founding in 1980, the Douglas Rotary Club was looking for way to fundraise, and a year later, the WSF booth was born.

Wayne Hudson, a founding member of the chapter who is still highly active, notes the group originally attempted to fundraise through raffles, but after he won three in a row, they searched for other money-making opportunities.

“I can’t tell you why it happened, I can only tell you that it happened, so people started looking at us a little differently,” Hudson admits.

In 1988, the group took over the space they currently occupy, and for the last 37 years, they have maintained and expanded it. Hudson credits Blake and Rick Hollon, another original member, with taking on so much of the work – as well as so many others throughout the years.

Today, the Rotary Club has become a popular stop along the WSF Midway for its friendly service and delicious food – especially

for its breakfast. In fact, outside of McKibben Cafeteria, it is one of few vendors to open early during fair week.

Hudson notes the booth’s early-morning opening is to cater to livestock exhibitors who are up at sunrise taking care of their animals. The booth also opens its doors earlier in the week – usually the Monday before WSF – to give folks who arrive early a place to eat and drink.

Hudson estimates the chapter goes through about 400 breakfast burritos during the fair, in addition to other breakfast foods, nachos, burgers and a wide range of menu items they serve each day. Hollon notes, over the course of the week, the booth goes through 300 pounds of nacho cheese, 13,000 napkins and two and a half tons of ice.

Unfortunately, Hudson points out running a restaurant is no small feat, and running one that is only part time, once a year has its own set of challenges.

COVID-19 left the Rotary Club with some membership challenges, and as a result, they’ve voted to discontinue the WSF food booth. Hudson, however, doesn’t bemoan the fact the younger

Continued on next page

gen eration isn’t as active in the Rotary Club. He says he understands people’s priorities have shifted and times are different.

“We just hate to see the tradition go away – I think probably more than anything else,” Hudson states.

Hudson and Hollon note they are both grateful for their customers, including the regulars they’ve gotten to know over the years and the people they’ve had the opportunity to work with.

“We’ve just been fortunate enough to have the opportunity to do the booth,” Hollon says. “We’ve been fortunate to meet a lot of really, really fine people.”

Be sure to visit the Rotary Club’s food booth during the 2026 WSF for its final year.

Look for the big Rotary Club insignia on the side of a standalone white building and a sign boasting “World Famous Nachos,” which Hollon’s daughter made sometime in the late 80s or early 90s. He still hangs it outside every year.

Roundup tent provides friendly place to cool off and network

Located across from the beef show ring, the Wyoming Livestock Roundup Tent is a popular hangout and must-see stop during the week of the Wyoming State Fair (WSF).

The Roundup team invites fairgoers of all ages to stop by the tent throughout fair week to get out of the summer heat, enjoy a free bottle of water courtesy of Pepsi and network with industry personnel.

This year, the Roundup Tent will feature vendors representing educational insutitutions, agribusinesses and other ag organizations from across Wyoming, selling goods and

services and offering a plethora of important and relevant information.

Visitors can also pick up free copies of the Roundup’s most relevant publications, sign up for a subscription or learn about advertising.

“The Wyoming Livestock Roundup is proud to be a part of WSF again this year,” says Wyoming Livestock Roundup Publisher Dennis Sun. “We should have around 30 booths in the tent, along with popcorn and ice-cold water. Stop by, rest and look us over. We’re in the same spot across from the beef show ring.”

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2026 Wyoming state fair Schedule of Events

FRIDAY, AUGUST 7

8 AM Sheep Wagons Arrival

10 AM-6 PM Needlework Entries Accepted (Upper Ag Hall)

6 PM Youth Livestock Show entry deadline

6 PM Credentials and Invoicing Forms Due (4-H and FFA – Required for Stalling Allocation)

SATURDAY, AUGUST 8

10 AM-6 PM Open Crafted, Visual, Culinary, Needlework and Garden Entries Accepted (Exhibit Buildings)

3 PM WDGA Dairy Goat Shows – Jr. Does (Show Rings)

6 PM ........... All Needlework Entries In Place

SUNDAY, AUGUST 9

8 AM ........... WDGA Dairy Goat Shows – Sr. Does (Show Rings)

8 AM ........... Needlework and Quilt Judging (Open to the Public)

10 AM-6 PM... Open Crafted, Visual, Culinary, Natural Fiber and Garden Entries Accepted (Exhibit Buildings)

11 AM .......... Cowboy Church (Bible Reading Tent on the Midway)

12 PM .......... Youth Horse Arrival

3 PM ........... Youth Dormitories Open

4 PM .......... Youth Horses In Place

5 PM

Open Wool Exhibits In Place

6 PM All Visual Arts, Crafted Arts, Culinary, Natural Fiber and Gardening Entries In Place

MONDAY, AUGUST 10

7 AM Youth Horse Show Check-In

8 AM Youth Horse Show (Pepsi Equine Center and Outdoor Arenas)

8 AM Open Crafted, Visual, Home Arts and Gardening Judging (Exhibit Buildings)

8 AM Youth Livestock Begin Arrival

8 AM 4-H and FFA Exhibit Buildings Open to Receive Entries

5 PM All 4-H/FFA Exhibits and Youth Livestock In Place

5 PM McKibben Cafeteria Open

6 PM Youth Dairy and Meat Breeding Goat Check-In

6 PM State 4-H Livestock Judging Contest and Coaches’ Meeting (Cafeteria)

7 PM 4-H/FFA Exhibitor Meeting (Pepsi Stage)

8 PM 4-H Extension Educator Meeting (Cafeteria)

9 PM FFA Member/Advisor Meeting (Cafeteria)

10:30 PM 4-H/FFA Curfew

TUESDAY, AUGUST 11

Exhibitor Appreciation Day

7 AM Exhibitor Breakfast (Beef Show Ring)

7 AM Youth Horse Show Check-In

8 AM Youth Horse Show

8 AM Youth Market Goats and Junior Breeding Does Weigh-In (Goat Barn)

8 AM 4-H Dog Show Check-In

8 AM 4-H Static Judging

TUESDAY, AUGUST 11 cont’d

8 AM Youth Swine Classification (Swine Barn)

8:30 AM ....... 4-H Dog Show and Showmanship

8:30 AM Youth Breeding Beef Check-In (Beef Barn)

9 AM Youth Sheep Classification (Open Sheep Barn)

9:30 AM ....... State 4-H Judging Contest (Beef and Swine Show Rings)

10 AM Youth Market Beef Classification and Weigh-In (Beef Barn)

10 AM .......... Outdoor Vendors Open

11 AM All Exhibit Buildings Open

12 pm Vyve Indoor Vendors Open

1 PM Youth Swine Weight Cards Due

1 PM ........... Youth Sheep Weight Cards Due for Breeding Commercial Cross Ewes Only

1 PM FFA Static Judging (Ft. Laramie)

4 PM .......... 4-H Livestock Judging Awards (Beef Show Ring)

5 PM CARNIVAL OPENS

5 PM Drug Declaration Forms Due (Exhibitor’s Office)

6 PM Champion of Champions Showcase (Sheep Show Ring)

6:30 PM Cowboy Calcutta pre-show (Ford Grandstand)

7 PM RANCH RODEO (Ford Grandstand)

8 PM ........... Exhibit Buildings Close 9:30 PM ....... Vyve Indoor Vendors Close

10 PM Outdoor Vendors Close 10:30 PM 4-H/FFA Curfew

WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 12

Youth Day and Wyoming Hunger Initiative Day

8 AM ........... 4-H and FFA Goat Showmanship, followed by Youth Market Goat Show and Meat Goat Show (Goat Show Ring)

8 AM ........... Open and Youth Wool Show Judging, followed by Natural Fiber Arts Judging (Wool Pavilion)

8:30 AM 4-H Cat Show Check-In (Event Tent)

9 AM ........... 4-H Cat Show and Showmanship Contest (Event Tent)

9 AM ........... WJAA Field Day Show (Beef Show Ring)

10 AM Outdoor Vendors Open

11 AM All Exhibit Buildings Open

12 PM......... Youth Beef Fitting Contestant Meeting (Beef Show Ring)

12 PM Vyve Indoor Vendors Open

1 PM ........... Youth Market Lamb Weight Cards Due

1 PM AORB Cattle Shows, followed by Wyoming Maine Anjou Market Beef Show (Beef Show Ring)

1 PM 4-H Swine Showmanship, followed by Youth Breeding Swine Show and Wyoming Bred and Fed Swine Show (Swine Show Ring in Touchstone Show Center)

2 PM CARNIVAL OPENS – YOUTH DAY

5 PM ........... Youth Beef Team Fitting Contest (Dairy Barn)

5 PM Wyoming Agriculture Hall of Fame Awards Picnic (Riverside Park)

2026 Wyoming state fair Schedule of Events

WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 12 cont’d

6 PM Breakaway Roping (Ford Grandstand)

PM WATA Jackpot Market Lamb (Sheep Show Ring)

THURSDAY, AUGUST 13

Military Appreciation Day and Wyoming Pioneer Day (62+)

8

8

........... 4-H Sheep Showmanship, followed by Youth Breeding Sheep Show (Sheep Show Ring)

Poultry Check-In/In Place (Event Tent)

FFA Swine Showmanship, followed by Youth Market Swine Show (Swine Show Ring in Touchstone Show Center)

9 AM PRCA Steer Roping (Ford Grandstand)

9 AM 4-H and FFA Poultry Showmanship, followed by Youth Poultry Show (Event Tent)

10

10

10

Hereford Cattle Show, followed by Pen of Three Bulls and Wyoming Hereford Steer Show (Beef Show Ring) 10

Vyve Indoor Vendors Open

1 PM Angus Show, including WAA Steer and Angus Futurity, followed by Supreme Champion Beef Bull and Female Selection and Steer Show (Beef Show Ring)

2 PM CARNIVAL OPENS

6 PM WATA Youth Jackpot Beef Show (Beef Show

and Open Prospect Calf Show (Beef Show Ring)

9 AM 4-H and FFA Rabbit Showmanship and Youth Rabbit Show (Event Tent)

FRIDAY, AUGUST 14 cont’d

9 AM PRCA Rodeo Slack (Ford Grandstand)

10 AM Outdoor Vendors Open

PM Sheep Lead Contest (Wool Barn)

5:30 PM King Arthur Baking Contest (Ft. Fetterman)

6:30 PM Miss Rodeo Wyoming pre-show (Ford Grandstand)

7 PM........... PRCA RODEO - future night (Ford Grandstand)

8 PM

SATURDAY, AUGUST 15

8 AM ........... FFA Beef Showmanship, followed by Youth Market Beef Show (Beef Show Ring)

8 AM FFA and 4-H Dairy Goat Showmanship, followed by Youth Dairy Goat Show (Goat Show Ring)

8 AM ........... Open Class Sheep Show (Sheep Barn)

8 AM ARBA Rabbit Show Check-In (Event Tent)

9 AM 4-H Alpaca Showmanship, followed by FFA Alpaca Showmanship and Youth Alpaca Show (Grass Arenas)

Revue Judging (EWC Campus)

Rabbit Show (Event Tent)

AM Wyoming State Fair Parade (Downtown Douglas)

Demonstrations (Wool Pavilion)

Bonsai Demonstration (Lower Ft. Reno)

State Cake Showdown (McKibben)

Revue (Ft. Reno Stage)

SUNDAY, AUGUST 16

Exhibits Released

m e d n n o u g h o a t h

S u m m e r w o r k s a r e i n f u l l s w i n g , a n d y o u r e a l i z e y o u d o n ’ t u m m e r w o r k s a r e n f u l l s w n g , a n d y o u r e a l z e y o u d o n ’

h a v e e n o u g h h e l p t o d o a l l o f t h e s e t h i n g s . h a v e e n o u g h h e l p t o d o a l l o f t h e s e t h i n g s

Y o u h a v e p a s t u r e t o i r r i g a t e , h e i f e r s t o b r e e d , a n d a

Y o u e a s t r e t o i r r i g a e i f r s r e e a

Y o u h a v e p a s t u r e t o i r r i g a t e h e i f e r s t o b r e e d a n d a

l l i o n s l i f r t o w n t y o u e e .

m i l l i o n s u p p l i e s f r o m t o w n t h a t y o u n e e d . m i l l i o n s u p p l i e s f r o m t o w n t h a t y o u n e e d .

Y o u h a v e a h i r e b u t c o u l e a s i l y u s e t w o ; t h a t i s

Y o u h a v e a h i r e d h a n d b u t c o u l d e a s i l y u s e t w o ; i f t h a t i s Y o u a v e a i e d a d b u t c o u d e a s i y u s e t o ; i f t a t i s

e c a e , I h a v e a p r o p o s i t i o n f r y o u

t h e c a s e , I h a v e a p r o p o s i t i o n f o r y o u ! h e c a s e , I h a e a p r o p o s o n f o r o u !

E a c h y e a r h e R M A L d e g r e e h a s s u d e n s g a i n i n e r n s h i p s

E a c h e a r t h e M A e g r e e a t u d e n t s g a i e r s h i

E a c h y e a r t h e R M A L d e g r e e h a s s t u d e n t s g a i n i n t e r n s h i p s

a n d o r k o n o n e o f t h r e e .

a n d w o r k o n o n e o f t h r e e . a n d w o r k o n o n e o f t h r e e .

T h e f i r s t i n t e r n s h i p i s t o b e o n a n o p e r a t i o n b e i t c a t t l e

T h e f i r s t i n t e r s h

T h e f i r s t i n t e r n s h i p i s t o b e o n a n o p e r a t i o n , b e i t c a t t l e

o r s h e e p ; w e r e c o g n i z e t h a t h a n d s - o n e x p e r i e n c e c a n ’ t b e o r s h e e p ; w e r e c o g n i z e t h a t h a n d s - o n e x p e r i e n c e c a n t b e b e a t . b .

s e c g o c ’ b e

Y o u h i r e a s t u d e n t , g i v e t h e m p a y a n d a p l a c e t o s l e e p , Y o u h r e a s u d e n , g v e h e m p a y a n d a p l a c e o s l e e p ,

Y o u i r e a s t e n , g i e e a a n a t e p ,

t h e y w i w o r k r o p a t i o n t r i n o r e a t .

a n d t h e y w i l l w o r k y o u r o p e r a t i o n i n t h e r a i n o r h e a t . a n d t h e y w i l l w o r k y o u r o p e r a t i o n i n t h e r a i n o r h e a t

T h e s t u d e n t l e a r n s w h a t i t t a k e s t o b e a p a r t o f a r a n c h

e s t e n t l e r n s w h a t i t t a e s e a a t o f r a n c ,

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t h e i r f i r s t c h a n c e . t e i f i s t c a c e .

t e i r f i r s t c h a n c e .

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N o o n l d o h e y n e r n o n a r a n c h , b a l s o a n o n - p r o f s

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e c a l a o o i t o b u

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a t h f w l i d t e c l o c .

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t e c t t l e t h e e

t h e c a t t l e a n d t h e b e e s . h e c a t l e a n d h e b e e s .

T h e c a n e c e f a m i l i a r w i t r o g r a m s t o f f e r g r a n

T h e y c a n b e c o m e f a m i l i a r w i t h p r o g r a m s t h a t o f f e r g r a n t s

T h e y c a n b e c o m e f a m i l i a r w i t h p r o g r a m s t h a t o f f e r g r a n t s

t o h e l p r e b u i l d a f t e r f i r e s h a v e b u r n e d t h r o u g h a n d t o h e l p r e b u i l d a f t e r f i r e s h a v e b u r n e d t h r o u g h a n d

d e s t r o y e d y o u r f a c i l i t i e s a n d p l a n t s .

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d e s t r o y e d y o u r f a c i l i t i e s a n d p l a n t s .

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a c a d e m i c y e a r t o r e a l l y g e t t h e i r r a n c h p l a n n i n g i n t o a c a d e m c e a r o r e a l l y g e h e r r a n c h p l a n n n g i n o g e a r . g e a r .

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b e c o m e f a m i l i a r w i t h a l l o f t h e n o n - c o w b o y s t r i n g s .

b e c o m e f a m i l i a r w i t h a l l o f t h e n o n - c o w b o y s t r i n g s .

T h e y g e t a s m a l l l o o k i n t o m a n a g i n g a r a n c h , f r o m w h e n

T h e y g e t a s m a l l l o o k i n t o m a n a g i n g a r a n c h , f r o m w h e n

t o s e l l t h e c a l v e s t o w h o m t o h i r e a s a c o o k . t o s e l l t h e c a l e s t o h o t o h e a s a c o o k .

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k n o w o f a n a g e n c y o r a s s o c i a t i o n t h a t ’ s w i l l i n g t o g i v e a k n o w o f a n a g e n c y o r a s s o c i a t i o n t h a t ’ s w i l l i n g t o g i v e a

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p e r c h a n c e ? p e c h a c e ?

COMMEMORATIVE COINS

In honor of 100 years, WPA has commissioned commemorative silver coins. These are selling fast, so be sure to contact the executive board today if you would like one. Coin #100 will be auctioned off at the annual meeting, if that is the one you have your eye on!

BOARD BRANDING

We’re offering another opportunity to members for a branded board to hang in the Ruthe! Boards will be sold for $250 each. They will be hung in the main meeting room above the display cases. 52 boards are available. You must be a WPA member to have a board hung in the building. Reserve your brand online at wyomingpioneer.org

CASINO NIGHT FUNDRAISER

Friday August 7

Thursday, August 13, 2026

Wyoming Businesses in the Pioneer Cabin throughout the week, plus a cool spot to sit, visit and rest after trekking

Cowboy Cornhole Tournament returns for another year

The Annual Cowboy Cornhole Tournament, hosted by the Wyoming FFA Foundation and the Wyoming Natural Resource Foundation (WNRF), is back for 2026. The tournament will be held on Tuesday, Aug. 11 at the Wyoming State Fairgrounds and bags start flying at noon.

This year, an exciting announcement is the change to the format with a Switcholio tournament. Players will get a different partner each game and carry over their points from previous rounds. Switcholio tournaments allow players of all skill levels a chance to win. The tournament is open to both adults and youth.

WNRF Communications and Administrative Manager Hannah Adams notes the mission of both organizations are simple and have a lasting influence on Wyoming.

The Wyoming FFA Foundation seeks to focus on “funding today’s students to become tomorrow’s agriculture industry leaders.” The foundation is a 501(c)3 that works to maximize the opportunities available to the state’s 4,500 plus FFA members and 64 Wyoming FFA chapters.

The WNRF is “dedicated to conserving Wyoming’s natural

We Take Your Prescription Needs Personally

resources, heritage and culture.” WNRF is also a 501(c)3 organization which implements a wide range of natural resource conservation programs, from forest health and wildlife habitat projects to scholarship programs for bright individuals seeking a career in conservation.

“Our annual fundraiser plays a crucial role in achieving both of our missions. It gains us exposure and provides financial support for the work we do in the agriculture and conservation world in Wyoming. And, of course, it’s one of those events that not only supports meaningful causes, but you’re guaranteed to have fun and laugh,” Adams states.

Player registration is $25, and players get two free drink tickets. There are four sponsorship tiers – the top two come with up to five free player registrations.

Whether you’d like to play or sponsor, participation in this event creates lasting impacts, rippling throughout the Cowboy State.

For more information, to register as a participant or to sponsor the event, visit secure.qgiv.com/for/wyomingffaassociation/ event/2026cowboycornhole/

2026 Wyoming state fair Entertainment Schedule

Friday, August 7

4 PM Community Barbecue with Face Painting and Crafts –Please Bring a Chair (Bible Tent)

Saturday, August 8

9 AM Bible Reading (Bible Tent)

Sunday, August 9

9 AM Bible Reading (Bible Tent)

Monday, August 10

9 AM ........ Bible Reading (Bible Tent)

Tuesday, August 11

9 AM Bible Reading (Bible Tent)

12

6

6

of Champions Showcase (Sheep Show Ring)

The Danger Magik Show (Pepsi Stage)

6:30 PM Cowboy Calcutta (Ford Grandstand)

7 PM........ Ranch Rodeo (Pepsi Stage)

7 PM Marcus the Funny Man (Pepsi Stage)

8 PM TranceNosis Hypontist Show (Pepsi Stage)

9 PM Marcus the Funny Man (Pepsi Stage)

Wednesday, August 12

9

1

6

(Bible Tent)

ROPING (Ford Grandstand)

6 PM ........ Danger Magik Show (Pepsi Stage)

7 PM Marcus the Funny Man (Pepsi Stage)

8 PM TranceNosis Hypnotist Show (Pepsi Stage)

9 PM ........ Marcus the Funny Man (Pepsi Stage)

Thursday, August 13

9 AM Bible Reading (Bible Tent)

1 PM Military Band (Pepsi Stage)

3 PM Family Magik Show (Pepsi Stage)

4 PM ....... Marcus the Funny Man (Pepsi Stage)

6 PM The Danger Magik Show (Pepsi Stage)

6 PM World Champion Mutton Bustin’ (Ford Grandstand)

7 PM........ PRCA RODEo - leagacy night (Ford Grandstand)

7 PM Marcus the Funny Man (Pepsi Stage)

8 PM TranceNosis Hypnotist Show (Pepsi Stage)

9 PM Marcus the Funny Man (Pepsi Stage)

Friday, August 14

9 AM ........ Bible Reading (Bible Tent)

3 PM Family Magik Show (Pepsi Stage)

4 PM Marcus the Funny Man (Pepsi Stage)

6 PM ........ Danger Magik Show (Pepsi Stage)

6:30 PM Miss Rodeo Wyoming (Ford Grandstand)

7 PM........ PRCA RODEo - future night (Ford Grandstand)

7 PM Marcus the Funny Man (Pepsi Stage)

8 PM TranceNosis Hypnotist Show (Pepsi Stage)

9 PM ........ Marcus the Funny Man (Pepsi Stage)

Saturday, August 15

9 AM Bible Reading (Bible Tent)

1 PM ........ Jill’s Dance (Pepsi Stage)

1 PM Sunset Tour (Upper Campus)

3 PM ........ Sunset Tour (Upper Campus)

3 PM Family Magik Show (Pepsi Stage)

4

Marcus the Funny Man (Pepsi Stage) 5

Sunset Tour (Upper Campus)

DERBY (Ford Grandstand) 6

7

Danger Magik Show (Pepsi Stage)

........ Marcus the Funny Man (Pepsi Stage)

8 PM TranceNosis Hypnotist Show (Pepsi Stage)

9 PM ........ Marcus the Funny Man (Pepsi Stage)

Mezmer mesmerizes audience with hypnosis, illusions, magical tricks

The Family Magik Show, Danger Magik Show and TranceNosis Hypnotist Show on the Midway have been wowing people at the Wyoming State Fair (WSF) for many years.

Magician Michael Mezmer is returning to WSF once again with new tricks up his sleeve, ready to delight crowds new and old.

The shows will be held multiple times each day during the week of fair, with the first shows debuting on Aug. 11 and running through Aug. 15.

The Family Magik Show will take place each day at 3 p.m., followed by the Danger Magik Show

at 6 p.m. and the TranceNosis Hypnotist Show at 8 p.m.

Mezmer’s shows offer fairgoers the opportunity to take a break from walking the grounds, and his interaction with his audiences is one of the many reasons he is so popular. He involves attendees and makes sure they feel they’re a part of each show.

One can look forward to tricks such as blindfolded knife throwing, the human target challenge and mind reading of audience members, as well as various tricks and illusions. Mezmer never fails to “mezmer-ize” the crowd.

Join in on Americana celebrations during 2026 WSF

In celebration of America’s 250 th birthday, Wyoming State Fair (WSF) will be decked out in patriotic colors and offer a host of Americana activities for visitors of all walks of life.

There is so much to see and do, not only on the fairgrounds, but throughout Douglas, too.

“For 250 years, America’s story has been written by people willing to work hard, dream big and invest in their commu nities. WSF is proud to celebrate this legacy and help inspire the next generation to carry it forward,” states WSF General Manager Courtny Hinds.

Festivities will kick off on Aug. 8 with a Window Decorating Contest hosted by Main Street Douglas.

test, visit facebook.com/share/1CQYBqiuwW

On Aug. 12, fairgoers are invited to participate in the Patriotic Sidewalk Chalk Competition. The goal is to cover the midway in red, white and blue patriotic imagery.

Businesses are invited to decorate their window fronts, and WSF will award a banner and four grandstand tickets to the event of their choice for the best 250 th Themed Storefront and People’s Choice Award winner.

Winners will be announced on Aug. 8, just in time to kick off the excitement of WSF, and fairgoers are encouraged to make their way around town and enjoy these patriotic displays.

For more information about the window decorating con -

Winners will be announced on Aug. 12. First place receives a banner and two grandstand tickets to the event of their choice, and second place will receive a rosette.

2026 WSF golf cart pass holders are invited to participate in the Patriotic Golf Cart Decorating Contest.

Participants must enter by 1 p.m. on Aug. 11, and judging will take place the same day at 1:30 p.m.

The contest will be judged by having participating carts line up in a procession, then drive past the panel of judges and throughout the grounds on the golf cart path in a “mini patriotic golf cart parade.”

The winner will be announced on Aug. 12 and will receive a complimentary golf cart pass for the 2027 season.

WSF vendors are invited to participate in the Patriotic Booth Contest, where a panel of judges will select the most

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Welcome to Wyoming!

Summer is here and visitors will be traveling to enjoy the great outdoors and the wonderful opportunities that our beautiful state offers.

Please be aware of an increase in traffic, especially children, bicycles and motorcycles. Be observant and drive safely, and always look out for your fellow travelers.

When exploring and hiking in our vast countryside, please make sure to let your family know where you will be and when you will return. This makes it easier for our Search and Rescue Team to locate or find you if you get injured or lost.

Be safe ~ Be courteous ~ Be alert.

Sheriff Clint Becker and all of us at the Converse County Sheriff’s Office wish you a safe and enjoyable summer, and remind you to always use your seatbelt!

patriotically decorated booth on the fairgrounds. Visitors are encouraged to check out all of the vendor booths to see who won.

Winners will be announced on Aug. 13 and will receive a banner and $250 off of the following year’s booth space.

On Aug. 13 a panel of foodies will also select the “most patriotic fair food.” Winners will be announced on Aug. 13 and will receive a banner and $250 off the following year’s booth space.

Exhibitors are being encouraged to participate in the Patriotic Stall Decorating Contest, where the best decorated stall will receive WSF merch. The best county, chapter or club will receive $250. Winners are set to be announced on Aug. 14.

WYOMING

From Prehistory to the Present Explore human and natural histories, past and present. From displays on wildlife, geology, art and more –there’s always something for all ages!

WyoMuseum.Wyo.Gov Open Monday - Saturday

During the Demolition Derby on Aug. 15, judges will award the Most Patriotic Car instead of the usual Best in Show.

Throughout the week of fair, in celebration of America’s 250 th anniversary, WSF has added patriotic-themed classes for static exhibits. Visitors are encouraged to visit the WSF’s upper campus and enjoy the patriotic exhibits created by our dedicated and hardworking exhibitors.

WSF Marketing and Communications Director Kota Provence says celebrating America 250 at the 2026 WSF feels like a true full-circle moment.

“Fairs have long been one of our nation’s original celebrations of agriculture, community and the American spirit,” Provence states. “As we honor 250 years of our country, we are proud to celebrate the traditions, people and values that continue to bring Wyoming together year after year.”

Glenrock Paleon Museum

Glenrock Town Square

Deer Creek Museum

Glenrock Golf Course

Scenic Pathways

TOUGH COUNTRY MEANS

Marcus the Funny Man to delight fairgoers of all ages

Wyoming State Fair is welcoming Marcus Wilson, a Utah-based traveling comedian, to this year’s festivities.

Wilson’s stage name, “Marcus, Funny Man Who Does Tricks,” encapsulates his type of comedy while disclosing to spectators exactly what they’re getting themselves into.

According to Wilson’s website, he was born on April Fools’ Day, so it’s only natural he’s always had a passion for jokes.

While his passion for humor often kept him in trouble throughout his childhood, it became an outlet for creativity when he discovered drama class in high school. In fact, his “obnoxious” antics were even encouraged while on stage.

Meanwhile, he learned how to juggle and subsequently fell in love with tricks and odd skills.

In his early 20s, Wilson began performing for crowds, and the rest became comedic history.

Since then, he’s brought his unique, often slapstick humor to dozens of fairs, festivals and corporate events.

Though he calls West Jordan, Utah home, Wilson has performed at multiple venues in Wyoming, including the Fremont and Teton county fairs.

Wilson’s blend between family-friendly jokes and impressive juggling routines, combined with zany prop comedy, make him an excellent fit to entertain audiences of all ages.

Wilson is slated to perform shows Aug. 11-15 at 4 p.m., 7 p.m. and 9 p.m. on the Pepsi Stage at the Wyoming State Fairgrounds. Be prepared for some fun, side-splitting humor.

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2450 Heartland Drive, Sheridan

Real Local Real Life

HARRIET HAGEMAN FIGHTING FOR THE WYOMING WAY

OF LIFE

Miss Rodeo Wyoming 2026 kate budge

Kate Budge proudly serves as Miss Rodeo Wyoming 2026.

The 21-year-old daughter of Joey and Nicole Budge is a seventh-generation Jackson Hole native with deep roots in the Cowboy State.

Budge’s passion for rodeo began early. From barrel racing and goat tail tying at Wyoming junior rodeos to showing cutting and reined cow horses, she is an accomplished horseman. She twice qualified for the National High School Finals Rodeo in Girls Cutting and the Queen Contest.

A devoted 4-H member for 11 years, Budge showed market beef, horses and sewing projects and was honored with the Cody Shervin Memorial Award – one of Teton County 4-H’s highest recognitions for leadership and integrity.

Budge recently earned her Associate of Science in Business and Accounting from Laramie County Community College with a 4.0 GPA while competing on the college’s Ranch Horse Team.

She was named Outstanding Freshman and finished in the top 10 at the Intercollegiate Stock Horse National Show.

She is now pursuing a double major in business economics and finance from the University of Wyoming.

Budge’s platform, Long Live Cowgirls, addresses the leading cause of death for Wyoming women – cardiovascular incidents. Partnering with the American Heart Association, she promotes CPR education and has helped teach the basics to

over 100 Wyoming FFA members.

Outside of the arena, Budge enjoys iced coffee, Sudoku, podcasts and spending time outdoors paddleboarding and fishing with her family.

She proudly represents the strength and spirit of Wyoming cowgirls.

Miss Rodeo Wyoming Contestant rowan wasinger

Rowan Wasinger is a 20-year-old from Buffalo who is passionate about serving her community, promoting agriculture and helping others achieve their goals.

She is currently attending Northwest College, where she is pursuing a degree in occupational therapy and serves as the athletic coordinator at the Johnson County YMCA, where she enjoys encouraging individuals of all ages to lead healthy and active lifestyles.

As the 2026 Johnson County Fair and Rodeo Queen, Wasinger proudly represents the Western way of life and the values of hard work, leadership and community involvement.

She spent 13 years showing livestock and earned a National Western Stock Show championship in 2023. Wasinger has also shown cattle for Frank Herefords in Billings, Mont. and is an active member of the American Hereford Association.

Committed to giving back, Wasinger volunteers with the Sheridan Hawks Hockey Team and assists with local 4-H programs in Buffalo, helping young people develop confidence, responsibility and leadership skills.

In her free time, Wasinger enjoys hiking, paddleboarding and attending hockey, lacrosse and rodeo events.

Her passion for helping others extends beyond athletics and agriculture, as she hopes to become an occupational therapist and make a positive impact on the lives of those she serves.

Through her dedication, enthusiasm and community spirit, Wasinger strives to be a positive role model and ambassador for Wyoming.

Miss Rodeo Wyoming Contestant Tanner rogers

Tanner Rogers, daughter of Rod and Nikki Rogers and sister to Tristan and Trenton, was born and raised in Laramie.

She earned her Bachelor of Elementary Education from the University of Wyoming and is now receiving her Master of Arts in Elementary Education from Grand Canyon University.

Rogers has held a variety of jobs, beginning with running a lawn care business alongside her brothers. She currently works as a student assistant for the livestock manager at the Wyoming State Veterinary Laboratory.

In addition, Rogers sells Mary Kay, provides pet care and is a substitute teacher for the Albany County School District and Snowy Range Academy.

Her volunteer work includes serving at her church, the Albany County Junior Livestock Sale Committee, Albany County 4-H, Snowy Range FFA and Wyoming FFA. She is also a member of P.E.O. Chapter AI.

Rogers enjoys mentoring younger 4-H and FFA members, as well as camping, sewing, baking, reading and spending time in the barn with her horse, cows, pigs, cats and dogs.

She previously served on the Wyoming 4-H Leadership Team from 2019-20 and as the Wyoming FFA state secretary from 2022-23. She was also the Laramie Jubilee Days Princess in 2018-19 and serves as Miss Laramie Jubilee Queen for 2025-26.

Rogers is honored and excited to serve as the 2026 Miss Laramie Jubilee, representing the Western way of life, its heritage and the sport of rodeo.

Miss Rodeo Wyoming Contestant Jadyn hall

Jadyn Hall, the 23-year-old daughter of Shawn and Marlisa Hall, proudly represents the Cattle Capital of Wyoming as the 2026 Goshen County Fair and Rodeo Queen.

Growing up on her family’s ranch in Veteran, Hall is a fifth-generation cattlewoman and holds a deep passion for the agriculture industry.

From a young age, Hall found a love for rodeo. From competing in local junior rodeos to the Wyoming High School Rodeo Association, she was able to sharpen her skills and gain countless relationships. This led her to compete in the National Intercollegiate Rodeo Association on scholarship in the breakaway roping and team roping.

Hall was an active 10-year member of 4-H, participating in horse, market beef and fabric and fashion and winning Reserve Champion Senior Model at the Wyoming State Fair twice.

Hall graduated from Eastern Wyoming College with an Associate of Science in Agriculture Business and Accounting while competing on the rodeo team, serving as their student senate representative and maintaining a 4.0 GPA.

Recently, she graduated from Oklahoma Panhandle State University (OPSU) Summa Cum Laude with a Bachelor of Business Administration in Accounting. While attending OPSU, she competed on the rodeo team and was a member of the Chi Alpha Honor Society.

Through her platform, “Gratitude, Grit and Grace,” Hall hopes to inspire young women to be strong leaders of their communities and to balance grit and grace by embodying what it truly means to be a Wyoming cowgirl.

LOCATED on the Wyoming State Fairgrounds in Douglas, the Wyoming Pioneer Museum invites visitors to explore the people, stories, and cultures that shaped Converse County and the American West.

ELECT MACEY MOORE Candidate for Converse County Commissioner

I believe that honoring our Wyoming culture is key component of living in Converse County. Investing in opportunities in Converse County and working within a budget that creates stability requires thoughtful leadership and skill..

-Macey Moore

• My background is corporate finance, real estate, tourism and ranch management. I have both state (UW Trustee) and local board experience.

• Growth in Converse County needs to be balanced. We must not compromise our culture or outpace our infrastructure in the name of growth alone. If given the honor to serve as your County Commissioner, I will focus on intentional economic and fiscal growth and I look forward to collaborating with my fellow stakeholders to effectively and strategically move us forward.

• You can count on me to put in the work, be educated on the fiscal constraints, identify prospects, and be transparent throughout the process. I am committed to making decisions based on what is best and most sustainable for our community.

I sincerely appreciate your consideration.

Thank you - Macey Moore, Republican Candidate for Converse County Commissioner

For more information visit: my Facebook @ maceymoore4conversecountycommissioner

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by

Macey Moore

The steps are simple: Scan the code or visit this website: https://arcg.is/0qrfOm2 After you open the Safety Hunt, drop a pin on the map. Then tell us about the issue and attach a picture of the location. That’s it! Every entry will qualify you for a drawing for $25 of Jackalope Bucks! Multiple entries are accepted.

Converse County sheep industry roots run deep in Combs Paich family

Bridget Combs Paich was raised in Converse County and has family ties dating to the early days of sheep producers in the county, as well as strong ties to the Wyoming State Fair (WSF).

Bridget’s great grandfather E.B. Combs raised sheep north of Douglas for many years. He was directly involved with the controversy between sheep men and cattle producers and once had a sheep wagon burned to the ground. His life was also threatened.

Continued on next page

Sheep Wagon Show highlights Wyoming ranching history

Beautifully-renovated sheep wagons and old sheep camp antiques will be on display in the 2026 Wyoming State Fair (WSF) Sheep Wagon Show, running from Aug. 11-15 from 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. each day.

Sheep wagons will be judged this year for the first time in a long time, and judging will take place on Aug. 11 by Charlie Holloway of Georgia. Continued on next page

AnimAl Shelter expAnSion project

The new Converse County Animal Shelter is a 10,050-square-foot facility designed to provide a safe, modern, and welcoming environment for both animals and the community. Replacing the County’s existing shelter, the new building will accommodate up to 30 dogs and 50 cats with thoughtfully planned spaces that support animal health, efficient operations, and successful adoptions. Dedicated intake, quarantine, adoption, and public areas, along with secure outdoor exercise yards and a flexible community room for education, volunteer training, and adoption events, will create a resilient facility that enhances animal welfare while helping more pets find permanent homes.

Laramie Peak Humane Society 307-358-6475

612 N. 2nd Street Douglas, WY 82633

Longstanding fairgoer – Bridget Combs Paich stands in the sheep wagon she restored and owns. The wagon goes to the Wyoming State Fair every year. Courtesy photo

Continued from previous page

E.B. was the father of three sons, one of whom was Bridget’s grandfather, Gene.

Gene was also a sheep producer and helped with production of the WSF for many years. He was reportedly a part of the crew who pushed a burro – instead of a horse – off of a 40foot diving platform with the famous act of the “Lady in Red.”

Gene’s son Raymor Combs was Bridget’s father, and he too ran sheep north of Douglas and also served as a brand inspector for many years.

After his untimely death, Bridget’s mother Lucille continued to run sheep until 1967 when a terrible snowstorm wiped

Continued on next page

Continued from previous page

On Aug. 12, the Sheep Wagon Show will host a bunch of festivities fairgoers won’t want to miss.

The Converse County Cow-Belles will put on a beef demonstration at the Sheep Wagon Show, alongside the ever-popular Dutch Oven Competition.

Judging will take place at 11 a.m., followed by a big lunch of Dutch oven meals and other contributions from the Cow-Belles, according to WSF Sheep Wagon Show Coordinator Rhonda Dilts.

Austin Snook • 307-290-2161

Taylor Snook • 307-290-2273

Craig Deveraux • 307-746-5690

“That night we will announce winners of the Sheep Wagon Show, then we are will have an All-American party with hot dogs, watermelon and apple pie,” Dilts says. “The Converse County Historical Society is doing a reading of the Declaration of Independence, and we’ll have live music. It’s going to be a great patriotic night celebrating America’s birthday.”

Fairgoers are also invited to attend a game of cards on Aug. 14-15 at 1 p.m. at the Sheep Wagon Show, and free watermelon after the parade.

For more information, call Dilts at 307351-5375.

Dan Catlin • 406-671-7715

Clint Snook • 307-290-4000

Cheyenne Seymour • 605-641-0638

Casey Sellers • 307-217-2614

Jim Forbes • 307-351-5932

Daniel Escoz • 307-217-1440

Tye Curuchet • 307-351-8666

JJ Butler • 307-231-6878

Chris Rodriguez • 307-217-2172

Kyle Kallhoff • 605-881-1526

Kade Kinghorn • 307-620-0525

Jake Underwood • 307-660-5989

Donny Scantling • 307-217-0537

Auctioneer: Curt Westland • 605-210-3329

“From the ring, to the video, and in the country, we market your livestock the competitive way.” Office: 307-684-0789

Family heritage – Bridget Combs Paich, pictured center, and her sons Lucas and Quentin Paich stand in front of her restored sheep wagon. Courtesy photo

them out. This marked the end of the Combs sheep history, but Lucille rented the place to the Stoddard family who continued as sheep producers.

Bridget’s great uncle Roy was superintendent of the WSF Sheep Department for 22 years. His son Lee also served in that capacity in 1962.

While the railroad contributed much of the land WSF occupies, the Combs family also donated land for its use. WSF’s latest purchase included the land where Lee and his family lived for many years.

Bridget received her nursing degree from the Presbyterian School of Nursing in Denver in 1983, was married and worked in the Denver area until she returned to the Douglas area with her four children in 1998.

She worked as a nurse for Memorial Hospital of Converse County for 17 years.

Her current involvement with WSF is as part of the committee that puts together the WSF Sheep Wagon Show.

Bridget has fond memories of playing in her family’s sheep wagons when she was a child. These wagons came from the Florence Lumber Company in Douglas and have been in the family for five generations. They have many stories to tell.

She had the first one restored in 2015 and entered it in the 2016 WSF Sheep Wagon Show. She came home with the prize of reserve champion and also won the Original Modified category. She has been bringing her wagon to the WSF Sheep Wagon Show ever since.

Bridget enjoys working on preserving the history of the

sheep industry in Wyoming, as well as the one-on-one involvement with sheep wagon owners. Her dedication to both her profession and to her family’s legacy continues to inspire those around her and contributes to the rich heritage of Converse County.

One of her dad’s old boots sits above the bed in her wagon – a reminder of the heritage of the Combs family.

Highlighting history – Bridget Combs Paich stands inside her sheep wagon. Courtesy photo

•

• Completely fills ruts with a single pass

• 10 cu. yard (28,000 lb.) total capacity

• One-man operation

• Off-season uses include filling ruts in roads and transporting grain

A TOP PRODUCER IN THE ROCKIES REGION

Oxy produces energy efficiently, reliably and responsibly around the world and is a key operator in the Powder River Basin. With a history in Wyoming that dates back two decades, we’re proud to support the culture and heritage of the Cowboy State as the presenting sponsor of the 2026 Wyoming State Fair PRCA Rodeo.

The cooperative difference

Electric cooperatives are deeply rooted across our Wyoming communities. Many years ago, ranchers, farmers and folks from all walks of life came together to create their electric co-ops. They brought the benefits of electric power to drive the Cowboy State forward, and we’re still here today, delivering reliable and affordable power.

The West’s not-for-profit generation and transmission cooperatives, including Tri-State, Basin Electric and Desert Power, help power Wyoming’s electric co-ops. Bringing power to the people. That’s the cooperative difference.

PROUD SPONSORS OF THE WYOMING STATE FAIR

Visit us at tristate.coop and basinelectric.com. Learn more about electric co-ops at wyomingrea.org Tri-State is a not-for-profit power supplier to cooperatives and public power districts in Colorado, Nebraska, New Mexico and Wyoming.

Disposal Services

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Roll off container rentals

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Luxury restroom trailers

Septic pumping services

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Livestock

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Good Luck To Everyone Participating