Thurston County Fair to feature entertainment, agricultural showcases 

The Thurston County Fair is going to return with a carnival, live entertainment, agricultural showcases and special events at the end of the month.

The fair will be held at the Thurston County Fairgrounds & Event Center from Thursday, July 30, through Sunday, Aug. 2.  The venue is located at 3054 Carpenter Road SE in Lacey. 

“High-energy entertainment and family favorites from the main stages to the animal barns, the 2026 entertainment lineup is bursting with energy,” said the county in an announcement about the fair.

The four-day event has a lineup of various daily promotions: Thrifty Thursday (July 30), Fun Friday (July 31), Military & First Responders Day (Saturday, Aug. 1) and Kids Day (Sunday, Aug. 2). 

Thrifty Thursday will kick off the fair. Anyone who brings a nonperishable food donation for the Thurston County Food Bank gets a $1 admission.

Fun Friday is suited for thrill seekers, where a carnival ride wristband allows attendees to enjoy unlimited rides all day. 

Military & First Responders Day honors people who serve. Active military personnel, veterans and first responders are admitted for $2.

People may also join the free county commissioners pancake breakfast from 8:30 a.m. to 10 a.m. at Heritage Hall. 

Visitors will be able to witness stunts from the Vuelta La Luna Circus, watch custom art sessions at Grizzley Artwork Chainsaw Demos, and discover the wild world of Reptile Isle.  

Music lovers can enjoy classic rock to country music across multiple stages with local acts, such as Cliff Rice Band, RaeAnn Phillips, Driftwood Drive and Catherine Loyer & Strawberry Roan. 

Something new will also take place at the Lucky Eagle main stage at noon on Friday, July 31— the inaugural Kiddie Krawl Contest by KGY. The diaper derby will feature the community's fastest tiny competitors in a race to the finish line. Registration opens at 11 a.m. 

Other events include the 4-H and FFA livestock show, Thurston County Youth Animal Market Sale, Lion Gypsie Fire Experience and baking competitions. 

Information on daily schedule, ride hours and parking are available at the Thurston County Fair web page.