About Bates County Fair
The Bates County Fair in Butler celebrates a western Missouri county where the Civil War's border war raged fiercely — Bates County was the site of intense guerrilla conflict between Kansas Jayhawkers and Missouri Bushwhackers, and the county's agricultural communities rebuilt in the post-war era to create the livestock and grain farming traditions celebrated at this fair.
What to Expect
Expect livestock shows, 4-H and FFA competitions, local food vendors, and the community spirit of a western Missouri prairie county with deep Civil War and agricultural heritage.
Visitor Tips
Butler is the county seat of a county that witnessed some of the Civil War's most brutal irregular warfare. Truman Lake and the Marais des Cygnes National Wildlife Refuge are nearby, and the Kansas border is just miles west.
Heading to Bates County Fair?
Our complete packing list covers what actually makes a difference — sun protection, footwear, and the small things people forget until they need them.
As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.
Nearby County Fairs
Something wrong with this listing? Suggest a correction →