by Here’s your comprehensive guide to the Apache County Fair 2025 in St. Johns, Arizona — the county’s annual festival of agriculture, community, and fun.
- Dates: Wednesday, August 20 to Saturday, August 23, 2025
- Location: Apache County Fairgrounds, 825 4th North, St. Johns, AZ 85936
- Edition: 83rd Annual Fair, established in 1942
- Attendance: Approximately 15,000 visitors expected during the fair
Hours & Admission
- Admission: Always free, as is parking
- Gate Hours:
- Wednesday (Aug 20): 11 AM – 9 PM
- Thursday & Friday (Aug 21–22): 9 AM – 9 PM
- Saturday (Aug 23): 9 AM – 10 PM
- Carnival Ride Hours (operated by Frazier Shows):
- Thursday: 5 PM – 10 PM
- Friday: 5 PM – 11 PM
- Saturday: 3 PM – 11 PM
- Potential Sunday activities may run from 1 PM – 4 PM (based on previous years)
What to Expect
Midway & Carnival
- Frazier Shows will bring a midway full of rides, thrill attractions, and games.
- Save with wristbands (around $27–$30 in previous years) or buy per-ticket ($1 per ticket, $75 for 100 tickets)
- Mega Pass: unlimited rides throughout fair hours for about $100
Exhibits & Agriculture
- 4‑H and FFA competitions, with market livestock exhibitions and judging: swine, beef, sheep, goats, and small stock.
- Community exhibits in home crafts, canning, arts & science, and educational displays celebrate local talent.
Entertainment & Special Events
- Main stage shows featuring live music and local performers (e.g. Grupo El Regreso, Mickey O’Connor)
- Rodeo events, mud bogging, mud runs, and community contests (like the cutest baby contest) add festival flair
- At past fairs, a fireworks show has entertained fairgoers after dark on Friday night
Daily Highlights (based on prior years)
- Wednesday: Auction-house entries, small stock weigh-ins, fair opening ceremony, musical kickoff
- Thursday: Agricultural competitions start early; entertainment and carnival open in the evening
- Friday: Morning livestock shows, lunchtime baby contest, ranch rodeo in the afternoon, live music and fireworks into the evening.
- Saturday: Mud run, pet shows, junior rodeo, livestock sale, headliner tribute band in the evening, exhibits close by 7:30 PM.
Community Spirit & Local Roots
- The Apache County Fair serves as a major community gathering, highlighting local agriculture, youth programs, crafts, and family-friendly entertainment
- Held in St. Johns, a historic farming and ranching hub at approximately 5,745 ft elevation, with strong community participation
Planning Tips
- Vendor Info: Applications for 2025 are already closed. If you’re interested for future fairs, reach out early and provide booth insurance—it’s mandatory ($1M liability) and can be added for ~$80 if needed
- Visit Smarter: Bring water and sun protection—August in Eastern AZ can be hot. Arrive early if attending agricultural events.
- Check for Updates: While we used multiple reliable sources, fair schedules and offerings may change. Always consult the official fair website or organizers closer to August.
- Nearby Stay: Lodging in St. Johns fills up quickly; consider nearby cities like Show Low or Springerville for accommodations.
Summary Table
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Dates | August 20–23, 2025 |
| Admission & Parking | Free for all |
| Main Events | 4‑H/FFA livestock, rodeo, mud run, live music, community exhibits |
| Carnival | Midway rides operated by Frazier Shows |
| Mega Pass | $100 for unlimited rides (if available) |
| Expected Visitors | ~15,000 over four days |
In short, the Apache County Fair 2025 blends traditional county fair charm with fun rides, local talent, agriculture, and community pride. From livestock shows to carnivals and local music, it’s a warm invitation to experience authentic county tradition in the heart of Arizona.
