LaPorte County Fair

The LaPorte County Fair is Indiana’s oldest county fair, celebrating its 178th year in 2025. It takes place at the LaPorte County Fairgrounds in LaPorte, Indiana, from July 5 to July 12, 2025. The event offers a vibrant, family-friendly atmosphere with a mix of agricultural exhibits, entertainment, food, and carnival rides, making it a highlight of the community summer calendar.

Surrounding Area and Vibe:
The fairground is located at 2581 West State Road 2 in LaPorte, set in a region known as Northern Indiana. The venue provides a welcoming and accessible environment with full handicapped access. The vibe is festive and community-focused, offering both nostalgic elements like "Pioneer Land" and modern attractions. Visitors experience a blend of agricultural heritage and lively entertainment, fostering a fun, inclusive atmosphere suitable for all ages.

Activities and Attractions:

• 4-H Exhibits: Numerous 4-H animal and agricultural exhibits, including beef, goats, horses, miniature equine, poultry, rabbits, sheep, and small animals like fish. These exhibits involve competitions, judging, arrival, and weigh-in schedules designed for youth participants.
• Demolition Derbies: Three nights of thrilling demolition derby events.
• Concerts: Nightly concerts, mostly at 7 PM, with ticket prices varying from $15 to $25 for adults and children. These concerts feature fantastic music suitable for various tastes.
• Carnival Rides: A variety of fairway rides to entertain families and children.
• Food: A wide selection of classic fair foods to enjoy throughout the event.
• Pioneer Land: An educational and historical area showcasing pioneer life and activities.
• Truck and Tractor Show: Showcasing machines related to the region’s agricultural and industrial heritage.
• Small Animal Exhibits and Contest: Fish tanks and other small project displays.

Rough Schedule Highlights:

• July 5 (Opening Day): 4-H Exhibit Hall opens at noon; animal check-ins and arrivals throughout the afternoon and evening; concert at 7 PM.
• July 6 to 11: Daily 4-H shows like Horse & Pony Show and Market Lamb Weigh-In in the mornings; afternoon and evening activities including demolition derbies and concerts.
• Demolition Derbies: Spread over three nights during the fair, exact days typically mid-week to weekend.
• Concerts: Nightly at 7 PM across the fair week with ticketed performances.
• Other daytime activities include educational exhibits, animal judging contests, and family activities around the fairgrounds.

History and Founding:
The LaPorte County Fair, founded over 178 years ago, is Indiana’s oldest county fair, with a deep agricultural heritage. It began as a platform to showcase local farming, livestock, and crafts and has evolved to include extensive entertainment and community celebrations, preserving its role as a cornerstone of LaPorte county culture.

This combination of historical roots, 4-H youth engagement, exhilarating events like demolition derbies, and a broad entertainment roster creates a dynamic and enjoyable event for visitors and residents alike.