About This Festival
Event Summary
The Jay County Fair is a major annual event held in Portland, Indiana, spanning June 28 to July 5, 2025, at the Jay County Fairgrounds (806 E Votaw St). For over 170 years, since 1853, this fair has been a cornerstone of community life in Jay County, blending agricultural heritage with modern entertainment. Known for its patriotic spirit and family-friendly atmosphere, the fair’s 2025 edition will uniquely coincide with Independence Day, uniting two of the region’s largest celebrations—the fair and Fourth of July festivities.
Surrounding Area & Vibe
Portland, Indiana, is a small, tight-knit community in the rural, rolling hills of Jay County, located in the eastern part of the state. The fairgrounds are centrally located within the city, easily accessible and parking is well-organized for large crowds. The vibe is classic Americana: expect small-town hospitality, plenty of local pride, and a festive, inclusive atmosphere where generations gather to celebrate agriculture, community, and summer fun.
With Fourth of July falling during fair week, the event takes on an especially patriotic tone, featuring red, white, and blue décor, community sing-alongs, and special holiday activities. The fairgrounds are handicapped accessible, ensuring all visitors can enjoy the experience.
Activities & Schedule Overview
The Jay County Fair is packed with entertainment from morning to night, offering something for every age and interest. Below is a detailed breakdown of activities, with a rough schedule and locations where noted.
| Activity Type | Description & Schedule (Where Known) | Location |
|---|---|---|
| Grandstand Concerts | Major acts like Nate Smith (July 4) and Josh Ross, plus other live performers throughout the week | Main Grandstand |
| Carnival | Rides, games, and family amusements provided by Kissel Entertainment | Midway |
| Agriculture Shows | Livestock shows, exhibitor competitions, 4-H activities (June 26–July 3) | Livestock Barns, Arenas |
| Racing Events | Motorsports, demolition derbies, autocross, and more | Grandstand/Track |
| Rodeo | Professional rodeo performances | Arena/Grandstand |
| Circus | Performances by professional troupes | Fairgrounds |
| Food Vendors | Wide variety of local and classic fair foods | Throughout grounds |
| Special Exhibits | Homecrafts, art, agriculture, and historical displays | Exhibit Buildings |
| 4th of July Events | Parade, fireworks, and patriotic-themed activities | Fairgrounds/City-wide |
| Tri-State Shows | Gas Engine & Tractor Show, Vintage Motor Bike Show, Military Vehicle Show & Swap Meet | Designated areas |
Typical Fair Day Schedule:
- Morning: 4-H and agriculture competitions, early carnival openings, special exhibits
- Afternoon: Livestock shows, family activities, food vendors, games, and craft demonstrations
- Evening: Grandstand concerts, racing/demolition derbies, carnival, fireworks (on select nights, especially July 4)
Event History & Founding
The Jay County Fair traces its roots to 1853, making it one of Indiana’s oldest continuously operating county fairs. Initially focused on showcasing local agriculture, crafts, and livestock, the fair has evolved into a week-long festival of entertainment and community spirit. Over the decades, it has weathered changes in scheduling and programming, but always remained a highlight of summer for Jay County residents. Recent years have placed the fair in the week following Independence Day, but for 2025, it returns to a week that includes the Fourth, creating an unprecedented fusion of fair traditions and patriotic celebration.
Contact & Additional Information
- Phone: (260) 726-9616
- Website: jaycountyfair.com
- Location: 806 E Votaw St, Portland, IN
The Jay County Fair is more than just a festival—it’s a living tradition, a showcase of local talent, and a celebration of rural life that welcomes visitors from across the region every summer. Whether you come for the music, the food, the animals, or the rides, it’s an experience that captures the heart of Indiana’s small-town spirit.