North Idaho Fair and Rodeo
- Steve Russo
- Aug 1, 2014
- 3 min read
Celebrating 150 Years of Summer’s Best Tradition. By Jocelyn Stott
Summer’s Best Tradition, also known as the North Idaho Fair and Rodeo, celebrates its Sesquicentennial August 20-24. This 150-year summer time favorite kicks off the most exciting lineup yet of entertainment, agriculture and commerce found at the Kootenai County Fairgrounds, 4056 N. Government Way, Coeur d’Alene.
The milestone is recognized this year with the construction of a new main entrance gate featuring a monument to local industry.
The grandstand week begins with country music recording artist, Dustin Lynch, in concert in the grandstand, Wednesday, Aug. 20. Other grandstand favorites include Extreme Bulls, featuring nothing but down and dirty PRCA bull riding action. Not to be outdone by the popular favorite draft horse pulls on Saturday, August 23. A Demolition Derby traditionally tops off the week on August 24.
The Professional Rodeo Cowboys Association Rodeo at the North Idaho Fair is held Friday and Saturday at 6 p.m. and Sunday at 2:30 p.m. This event is always packed with fans hoping to get a glimpse of some of the best cowboys and cowgirls as they run for the money versus some of the best pro livestock in the region. The rodeo frequently features plenty of drill team and trick riding in between events, while the arena jester keeps everyone laughing.
This year’s rodeo royalty features Lakeland High School senior Jessica Norlander as the 2014 (and 2013) North Idaho Fair and Rodeo Queen. Jessica is a lifetime 4-H horsewoman and basketball standout who plans to attend Green River Community College next year to study Equine Science. Not only has Jessica shown horses and competed in equestrian gaming successfully, she’s also done well with sheep, swine, crafts and other pursuits.
Meanwhile back at the fair, visitors can enjoy carnival rides, games and a host of entertainment options including the likes of:
Lady Houdini – watch her escape from ANYTHING!
Play with Gravity – you won’t believe what these motorcycle daredevils can do.
Tumbleweed Crossing Wild West Shootout – you’ll think you took a wrong turn into Tombstone.
Loop Rawlins – This cowboy can do some rip-roarin’ stunts with his lariat.
Kenn Serrano – He juggles and will make you laugh
Magician Adam the Great – don’t blink or you’ll miss the magic!
Richard Baker Incredible Hypnotist – You’ll be amazed at the power of his mesmerizing antics
Sand Art Sculptor – Watch works of wonder arise from simple sand!
Uncle Curley’s Funtastic Kid Zone – games, activities and fun for the little ones.
All Aboard Express Train and Depot – Hit the rails and see the fairgrounds from a miniature train.
Wildlife Wendy – learn about nature and wildlife from Wendy.
Yankee Joe’s Gemstone and Fossil Mining – Mine for treasures without heading for the hills.
Agricultural and craft competitions are also on display in the many exhibitor barns including categories such as: vintage farm equipment, garden crops, crocheting, knitting, sewing, needlecraft, woodworking, honey, field crops, quilts, fine art, photography, crafts, rabbits, swine, cattle, goats, horses, sheep and poultry.
Fair gates open daily at 9 a.m., while exhibits are open 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. The midway opens each day at 3 p.m., closing at 10 p.m. each day except Sunday, which closes at 6 p.m. Tickets for the fair are $9 for adults; $7 for youth 6-12 and seniors 60 and over; Children under 5 are free. Parking is $3.
Weekly specials are as follows: Wednesday is opening day as well Heritage Day, the first 1500 entrants receive a commemorative ribbon.
Thursday is Fan Day, “like” North Idaho Fair and Rodeo on Facebook to receive $1 off entry.
Friday is Foodie Fan Day, featuring coupons for discounts on all your favorite fair cuisine.
Saturday is American Heroes Day, military members and veterans with ID receive $1 off admission
Sunday Is Family Day – Kids under 12 get in free before noon. For Fair entrance and grandstand show tickets visit: tickets.ticketforce.com
For more information visit: northidahofair.com or call 765-4969.
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