Puyallup Fair

Puyallup Fair
source
Name	Puyallup Fair
Location	Puyallup, Washington
Venue	Washington State Fair Events Center
Genre	State fair
Dates	September (Spring Fair in April)
Attendance	~1.2 million annually
Website	https://www.thefair.com/

Puyallup Fair. Officially known as the Washington State Fair, it is one of the largest annual fairs in the United States and the premier event of its kind in the Pacific Northwest. Held in Puyallup, Washington, the fair is renowned for its massive scale, diverse agricultural exhibits, major concert series, and iconic food offerings. Its operations are centered at the expansive Washington State Fair Events Center, a complex that hosts a variety of other events throughout the year.

History

The fair's origins trace back to 1900 when it was founded by the Puyallup Valley Fair Association, with early events focused on showcasing the agricultural bounty of the Puget Sound region. A pivotal moment in its development was the construction of the landmark Neptune's Court gazebo in 1905. The fairgrounds were later used as a temporary assembly center, the Puyallup Assembly Center, for Japanese American internment during World War II under the authority of the War Relocation Authority. In the post-war era, the fair experienced significant growth, culminating in a major rebranding in 2013 when it was officially renamed the Washington State Fair to better reflect its statewide significance, though it is still universally known by its traditional name.

Events and attractions

Central to the fair's identity are its extensive agricultural competitions, featuring livestock from 4-H and Future Farmers of America chapters across Washington. The event schedule is packed with major concerts at the Grandstand, hosting renowned artists from country and pop music genres. Unique attractions include the classic Fisher Scones stands, the Silvertips Restaurant, and adrenaline-pumping rides provided by Funtastic Shows. Other highlights encompass the Daffodil Festival parade, creative arts exhibits, and the famous Tractor Square Dance performed by local farmers.

Economic and cultural impact

The fair generates a substantial economic impact for the South Sound region, drawing visitors from across Washington and neighboring states like Oregon and Idaho. It serves as a critical platform for Washington State Department of Agriculture promotions and provides significant revenue for local businesses in Pierce County. Culturally, it is a deeply ingrained tradition, immortalized in the famous jingle "Do the Puyallup" and serving as an annual gathering point for communities throughout the Pacific Northwest. The fair also supports numerous nonprofit organizations and educational programs related to agriculture and animal husbandry.

Management and organization

The fair is operated by the Washington State Fair Events Center, a nonprofit public corporation governed by a board of directors. Key leadership has historically included figures like longtime manager Ralph Munro. The organization partners with major sponsors such as KOMO-TV, Starbucks, and John Deere to stage the event. Operational planning involves close coordination with the City of Puyallup, the Puyallup Police Department, and regional transit agencies like Pierce Transit to manage logistics, security, and transportation for the immense crowds.

Location and facilities

The fair is held at the Washington State Fair Events Center, a 169-acre complex located in downtown Puyallup, Washington. Major permanent structures include the Showplex exhibition hall, the Blue Gate entrance, and the Red Gate entrance. The grounds also feature the Thunder Dome stadium, the Pavilion concert and event space, and extensive paved parking lots. The site is strategically located near SR-512 and SR-167, with special services provided by Sound Transit and the Puyallup Station commuter rail stop during the event.

Category:Fairs in Washington (state) Category:Tourist attractions in Pierce County, Washington Category:Recurring events established in 1900 Category:Puyallup, Washington