Johnson County 4-H & Agricultural Fair

The Johnson County 4-H & Agricultural Fair in Franklin, Indiana, is scheduled for July 13-19, 2025, held at the Johnson County Fairgrounds (250 Fairground St.). The fair offers a rich blend of agricultural exhibits, competitive livestock shows, 4-H displays, rides, food vendors, commercial exhibits, fireworks, and grandstand events such as demolition derby and rodeo. Parking is available for a fee, and the event is handicap accessible. The fair runs daily from 8:00 AM to 11:00 PM[3][7].

Event Vibe and Surroundings

The fair has a classic county fair atmosphere focused on community, agriculture, and family-friendly entertainment. It takes place at the central fairgrounds in a vibrant locale with a community-focused, fun, and agricultural vibe. Visitors can expect a lively, festive environment with carnival rides, games, diverse food options, and live entertainment, fostering a friendly and celebratory feel for all ages[3][5].

Activities and Notable Events

• Parade: A downtown parade typically begins at 1:00 PM, offering a festive start to one of the main days of the fair.
• Competitive Livestock Shows: There are various 4-H livestock competitions including horse and pony shows starting at 6:00 PM on parade day, showcasing youth participants' efforts.
• 4-H Exhibits: Extensive 4-H exhibits featuring youth projects in animals, horticulture, baking, photography, and crafts.
• Open Class Contests: Floral arrangements and photography contests with awards and recognition for participants.
• Rides and Games: Classic carnival rides and games available daily, making the fair family-friendly and entertaining.
• Food and Commercial Vendors: Multiple booths offer a variety of food, refreshments, and commercial products.
• Grandstand Events: Includes major attractions like demolition derby and rodeo events.
• Fireworks: Exhibited during fair evenings, providing a celebratory close to a fair day.

Rough Daily Schedule Overview (subject to updates)

• Morning to Evening (8:00 AM – 11:00 PM): Open rides, games, food vendors, commercial exhibits, and open exhibits for viewing.
• Afternoon:
  • 1:00 PM: Fair Parade Downtown Franklin.
• Evening:
  • 6:00 PM: Horse & Pony Show.
  • Various livestock competitions and scheduled contest judging.
• Night:
  • Grandstand events such as demolition derby and rodeo.
  • Fireworks display on select nights.

History and Founding

The Johnson County Fair is a longstanding tradition that merges agricultural heritage with community celebration, reflecting Indiana’s strong 4-H youth program and agricultural development history. It supports 4-H Youth Development Program activities, aligned with Purdue Extension, fostering educational and competitive youth agricultural projects at the county and state levels. The fair has evolved into a multifaceted experience with over a century of support from the local community, agriculture stakeholders, and families[1][5].

Contact and Accessibility

• Location: Johnson County Fairgrounds, 250 Fairground St., Franklin, IN.
• Contact Phone: (317) 736-3247
• Website: jocofairin.com
• Handicapped accessible.

This event is a central community occasion that celebrates youth development, agriculture, and local culture through a mixture of competitive events, entertainment, and exhibitions.