The El Paso County Fair kicks off July 12 in Calhan, marking a whopping 120 years of animal showings, fried food, carnival rides, pageantry and—potatoes?

That’s right. This year’s theme, “A Spudtacular Journey,” pays homage to the fair’s agricultural roots. What began in 1905 as a small celebration of potatoes and local talent has grown into El Paso County’s largest event, drawing more than 30,000 visitors each year.

“Not a lot of people understand that agriculture is alive and well in El Paso County,” said Marketing Communications Manager Amy Jo Fields. “The fair is an opportunity for us to share a really community-centric event, as well as provide historical context for our agricultural heritage.” 

The fair is entirely self-funded through ticket and vendor revenue. It has endured through the Great Depression, two world wars and multiple recessions. The entertainment has evolved with the times, and visitors this year can relive that history through themed events and a new exhibit, “Journey Through the Ages Experience,” showcasing highlights from past to present.

SENIOR DAY AT THE FAIR

Senior Day takes place Tuesday, July 15, and offers $3 admission for guests 55 and older. Activities include a BBQ pork lunch and live music by the Peppergrass Band at 11 a.m., bingo at 1 p.m., and pie at 3 p.m.

Sensory Day also falls on July 15. Introduced in 2024 in partnership with the Autism Society of Colorado, the event features reduced noise and lighting, sensory tools and trained staff to assist neurodivergent guests in creating a more inclusive experience.

New attractions include a mounted shooting competition and high-energy dance parties from BOOM!, a percussion-led hype crew that brings dance parties from Vendor Row to Whittemore Hill throughout the day.

Fairgoers can enjoy live performances from a variety of local acts, from big band jazz by Swingmaster Jazz Band to country favorites like Exit West and soulful rockers Jason Lee Band.

RAISING THE NEXT GENERATION

For Fields, the fair is more than a summer tradition. A lifelong El Paso County resident, she grew up showing horses and selling livestock to help pay for college. 

“I was a very shy kid,” Fields said. “But the public speaking skills I gained from 4-H helped prepare me for the business world.”

She was crowned Fair Queen in 2003, Girl of the West in 2005 and Miss Rodeo Colorado in 2007. Now she encourages others to support youth in agriculture by attending the Junior Livestock Sale on July 19 at 2 p.m.

Fairgrounds program coordinator Andschana Aljets, a longtime Calhan resident, said working for the fair was a natural fit.

“Going to the fair was always a great time for all of us,” she said. “I have great memories of seeing my kids on rides and eating fair food. Seeing other families enjoy the fair in the same way is very rewarding.”

PLAN YOUR VISIT

Each day celebrates a different decade with themed events: from magic shows inspired by Houdini on July 12, to swing dancing on July 13, a WWII USO dance party on July 14, a ‘50s movie night on July 15, a silent disco with goats on July 16, an ’80s roller rink party on July 17, a Y2K-themed celebration on July 18, and a modern-day fair finale on July 19 featuring demolition derbies, stunt shows and more. 

Admission: $8 adults, $6 for seniors 55+ ($3 on July 15)

For details, visit ElPasoCountyFair.com or call 719-520-7880.