Wabash Valley Fair

Wabash Valley Fair. The Wabash Valley Fair is an annual event held in Terre Haute, Indiana, United States, and is organized by the Vigo County Fair Association. It attracts visitors from surrounding areas, including Illinois, Indiana, and Kentucky, and features a range of activities, including live music performances by artists such as Luke Bryan, Kenny Chesney, and Carrie Underwood. The fair also showcases exhibits on agriculture, horticulture, and animal husbandry, with participation from organizations like the National FFA Organization, 4-H, and the Indiana Farm Bureau.

● History

The Wabash Valley Fair has a long history, dating back to the early 20th century, with the first fair held in 1925 at the Vigo County Fairgrounds. Over the years, the fair has grown in popularity, with notable attendees including Indiana Governor Mitch Daniels, U.S. Senator Richard Lugar, and Congressman Larry Bucshon. The fair has also hosted various events, such as the Demolition Derby, Tractor Pull, and Rodeo, which are sanctioned by organizations like the Professional Rodeo Cowboys Association and the United States Auto Club. The fair's history is also closely tied to the region's agricultural heritage, with exhibits and demonstrations featuring John Deere equipment, Case IH tractors, and Purdue University extension services.

● Location

The Wabash Valley Fair is held at the Vigo County Fairgrounds, located in Terre Haute, Indiana, near the Wabash River and Indiana State University. The fairgrounds cover an area of over 100 acres, with facilities including exhibition halls, animal barns, and a grandstand that can seat up to 5,000 people. The location is easily accessible from nearby cities like Indianapolis, Bloomington, Indiana, and Champaign, Illinois, via U.S. Route 40 and Interstate 70. The fairgrounds are also close to attractions like the Clabber Girl Museum, Swope Art Museum, and the Terre Haute Children's Museum, which are popular among visitors to the area.

● Events

The Wabash Valley Fair features a wide range of events, including livestock shows, 4-H and FFA competitions, and exhibits on agriculture, horticulture, and conservation. The fair also hosts events like the Wabash Valley Idol competition, which is sponsored by local businesses like Baesler's Market and Terre Haute Savings Bank. Other events include the Wabash Valley Fair Queen pageant, which is affiliated with the Miss America organization, and the Wabash Valley Fair Parade, which features floats and marching bands from schools like Terre Haute North Vigo High School and Terre Haute South Vigo High School. The fair also partners with organizations like the Indiana Department of Natural Resources, U.S. Department of Agriculture, and the National Weather Service to provide educational programs and demonstrations.

● Entertainment

The Wabash Valley Fair offers a variety of entertainment options, including live music performances by local and national artists, such as Zac Brown Band, Rascal Flatts, and Lady Antebellum. The fair also features comedy acts, like Jeff Dunham and Larry the Cable Guy, and thrill shows, including the Wall of Death and the High-Wire Act. Visitors can also enjoy rides and games on the midway, which is operated by companies like North American Midway Entertainment and Strates Shows. The fair's entertainment lineup is sponsored by local businesses like Terre Haute Regional Hospital and First Financial Bank, and is promoted through media outlets like WTWO, WTHI-TV, and the Tribune-Star.

● Attendance

The Wabash Valley Fair attracts thousands of visitors each year, with attendance figures averaging around 50,000 people over the course of the five-day event. The fair is a popular destination for families, with activities and exhibits geared towards children, such as the Petting Zoo, Face Painting, and Clown Shows. The fair also draws visitors from surrounding areas, including Illinois, Kentucky, and Ohio, who come to enjoy the food, entertainment, and exhibits. The fair's attendance is supported by partnerships with organizations like the Terre Haute Chamber of Commerce, Vigo County Convention and Visitors Bureau, and the Indiana Tourism Association, which promote the event through social media platforms like Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram. Category:Fairs in the United States