The Oldest Fairs in Missouri

In Columbia, the Boone County Fair celebrates the home of the University of Missouri — MU's College of Agriculture has deep roots in Missouri farming, and Boone County's diverse agricultural base of cattle, corn, soybeans, and horses comes together at a well-organized fair serving one of Missouri's most educated and diverse communities. It's been held since 1835, one of Missouri's most enduring county fair traditions.

The Missouri State Fair in Sedalia is the premier agricultural exposition in the state, running eleven days in mid-August at the historic Sedalia fairgrounds that have hosted the event for more than a century. Launched in 1901, the fair has held its place in Missouri agricultural life for generations. It is one of the nation's great state fairs, drawing hundreds of thousands of visitors and featuring world-class entertainment, championship livestock, and the full spectacle of Missouri agriculture on display.

Every year, Springfield hosts the Greene County Fair, which celebrates Missouri's third-largest city and the Ozarks' commercial capital — Springfield is home to Bass Pro Shops' World Headquarters, Missouri State University, and the Springfield Cardinals minor league team, and the county's fair draws from one of Missouri's most dynamic and growing urban communities. Established in 1937, the fair has served as a community gathering point for generations.