About This Festival
The 2025 Morgan County Fair in Martinsville, Indiana, takes place from July 5 to July 12 at the Morgan County Fairgrounds. It is a longstanding community event, now in its 76th year, known for combining agricultural exhibits with a broad range of family-friendly entertainment and activities. The fair features 4-H exhibits, arts and crafts, livestock shows, a demolition derby, tractor pulls, live music, carnival rides, merchant vendors, and an extensive variety of fair foods. Parking costs $5 per car daily, with week passes available.
Surrounding Area and Atmosphere:
Martinsville is a central Indiana town where the fairgrounds serve as a hub for this annual community gathering. The vibe is festive and welcoming, drawing families, farmers, youth, and local businesses. The fairground atmosphere includes carnival rides provided by Poor Jack’s Amusements, live music on a free stage, and a merchant’s building showcasing local artisans. Food vendors, many supporting local nonprofits, offer classic and unique options like ribeye sandwiches, pork burgers, homemade ice cream, grilled cheese, donuts, plus traditional carnival fare such as funnel cakes and corn dogs. The event promotes community spirit through its contests and competitions, reflecting both agricultural heritage and local culture.
Activities and Events:
- 4-H Exhibits and Shows: Including open class beef, swine, open dairy, and sheep shows, with youth presentations and competitions central to the fair’s identity.
- Demolition Derby: A popular crowd-pleaser held on Friday evening.
- Tractor and Truck Pulls: Held during the fair to showcase strength and skill.
- Live Music & Entertainment: Evening concerts feature local and regional acts, including a lineup of grandstand events such as rodeos and the “4-H Night at the Grandstand” with horse drill and human tractor pulls.
- Carnival Rides and Games: Available throughout the fair for all ages.
- Arts and Crafts Exhibits: Displaying local artisans’ work and home arts competitions, including a Baker’s Best Bake-Off.
- Food Court: Offers a diverse range of food from local organizations supporting the community.
- Special Contests: The "Chopped Cooking Challenge" on opening Saturday tests local chefs.
Rough Weekly Schedule Highlights:
- Saturday, July 5: 4-H Bicycle Rodeo, Chopped Cooking Challenge, carnival opens in afternoon
- Sunday, July 6: Truck and Tractor Pull, Beef and Swine Judging
- Monday, July 7: Pro Rodeo at 7 PM, Evening concert with Blue Flame Music
- Tuesday, July 8: 4-H Grandstand Night featuring horse drill and hay bale competitions
- Wednesday, July 9: Open Dairy Show, Baking and home arts contests
- Friday, July 11: Demolition Derby at 7 PM
- Saturday, July 12: Open Sheep Show, final night of rides and festivities
History and Founding:
The Morgan County Fair is a historic event that has been held annually for over 75 years, growing into one of Indiana’s cherished county fairs. It serves as a platform for agricultural education, youth development through 4-H, and community celebration. The fair’s enduring appeal lies in preserving rural traditions while adapting to modern entertainment preferences.
Accessibility:
The fairgrounds are handicapped accessible, ensuring inclusivity for all visitors.
This event is an ideal destination for those interested in agriculture, local culture, family entertainment, and community engagement in a friendly and festive setting.