Okay, so we’re going to have to cheat a little bit in order to fit this into the ‘Fort Collins Favorites’ category, because it’s not technically in Fort Collins. But, there is just so much to do and see at this county fair that we just couldn’t leave it off of our favorites list. I mean where else can you see a cat show, witness a ‘Dress a Bunny Contest’, watch an antique tractor parade and attend a ‘cowboy church service’? Plus, there’s a rodeo and a carnival!
Actually, we’re not even cheating that much because the Larimer County Fair & Rodeo used to be held in fairgrounds in Fort Collins. So, though it currently takes place at The Ranch just east of Loveland, we think that we’re well within our rights to squeeze it in to our Fort Collins Favorites. It’s only a 20 minute drive away!
A ferris wheel at the Larimer County Fair. (photo by cdelalcazar via Flickr)
This year will be the 10th anniversary of the Larimer County Fair & Rodeo at its current location (the actual fair has been held annually for over a century). And if this is your first time going, you will quickly realize that this is a serious (af)fair. There are so many events and activities that they can barely fit them all on the bill.
The rodeo is an obvious draw, but there are also magic shows, a beer festival called the Gnarley Barley (which is quite possibly the coolest name in the universe), a parade, a petting zoo and animal competitions of just about every kind. There’s also something called a ‘Lady-In-Waiting Contest’, which sounds intriguing even though I have no earthly idea what it is…
This year features a few new attractions including Woody’s Wildlife Show, Barnyard Races and the Dog & Pony Variety Show. The general admission to the fair is free, but it does cost $25 to get into the carnival and there are admission charges for many of the other activities and special events as well.
So, if you are looking to experience a bit of the old west, hear some good live music or just take the kids somewhere that they will love, definitely check out the Larimer County Fair and Rodeo. The 2013 fair will be held August 2-6 at The Ranch. For more information, check out the official website.