Summer and county fairs go hand-in-hand.

Locals know that the Elkhart County 4-H Fair is one of the largest county fairs in the United States–and one of the most important events in northern Indiana. Held every July in Goshen, the fair brings together agriculture, entertainment, food, and community spirit for visitors of all ages. Thousands of people attend the nine-day event–July 24 to Aug. 1–each summer to enjoy livestock shows, carnival rides, concerts, competitions, and famous fair food. 

What some may not know, however, is that the fair began in 1851 as a small agricultural exhibition on the courthouse lawn in Goshen. Local farmers gathered to share farming techniques, display livestock, and celebrate the county’s agricultural success. Over time, the event grew larger and became more organized. Although the fair paused during periods such as the Civil War and World War II, it eventually returned stronger than ever.  In 1955, the county fair officially merged with the local 4-H program, creating the modern Elkhart County 4-H Fair. 

Today, the fairgrounds cover more than 380 acres and include dozens of buildings used year-round for community events. During fair week, more than 3,800 local 4-H members showcase projects involving animals, crafts, science, gardening, cooking, and technology. Livestock competitions are some of the fair’s most popular attractions, featuring cattle, pigs, sheep, horses, rabbits, and poultry. These events teach responsibility, leadership, and hard work to young participants.

“What sets the Elkhart County 4-H Fair apart is that it truly feels like the standard for what a county fair should be,” acknowledges Mr. Sid Shafer,  business teacher at EHS. “It is not just an event that happens once a year; it is a major community tradition.” Continuing, Shafer adds, “While many county fairs across the country are struggling to keep attendance, participation, and community support strong, Elkhart County continues to thrive. The fair keeps growing, improving, and bringing people together year after year. To me, that says a lot about the pride this community has in agriculture, youth development, and 4-H.”

Shafer should know. He himself was a 4-H’er  growing up. “My connection to 4-H and the fair world goes back a long way,” he says with a laugh. “I was a 10-year 4-H member in St. Joseph County, where I participated in animal projects like beef, swine, sheep, and poultry, along with foods and several other projects. I also had the opportunity to chaperone youth experiences, such as animal science workshops at Purdue and choir workshops. Today, I continue to stay involved as a 4-H leader in St. Joseph County.”

As with Shafer, Sophomore Ashlynn Sessler is a long-time 4-H’er, but here in Elkhart County. “I compete in photography projects (black & white and color), food preservation, foods, and creative writing….creative writing being my favorite.,” Sessler confides. Her modesty keeps her from mentioning the number of blue ribbons she has received along the way.

Yet, it is not the accolades that keep her coming back each year. “I love how there are so many things to do, as the fair is huge!” Sessler expresses. “I’ve experienced many things, such as watching a cow get birthed, watching a drone show, and even arm wrestling competitions!” But, it’s not the activities themselves she finds so compelling; it’s the people. “I’ve had lots of fun exploring and meeting some amazing people! There are also so many opportunities throughout the year.” One of the most memorable took her to West Lafayette. “I was able to visit Purdue for an Animal Science trip, which was a lot of fun.”

But, for nine glorious days, Sessler gets to simply enjoy the fruits of everyone’s labors as they are on full display in the barns, project buildings, and food venues. “My favorite part of the fair is getting to see everyone’s talent through projects and animals…along with the amazing food!” Sessler adds.

A major reason people attend the fair is for just that: the food. The Elkhart County 4-H Fair is famous for its endless variety of food stands and local specialties. Visitors can enjoy classic fair food, such as elephant ears, corn dogs, funnel cakes, lemonade, cotton candy, and homemade ice cream. Local organizations and nonprofit groups also operate food booths, giving the fair a strong community atmosphere. Many visitors consider fair food one of the highlights of the fair experience.

“At the Elkhart County Fair,” Shafer shares, “I am currently in my third year judging breads for the foods project. It has honestly become one of my favorite ways to stay connected to 4-H,” he adds. “I love being able to share baking knowledge with students, especially when they realize that one small adjustment can completely change the outcome of a recipe. Those moments are special, because you can see students learning in real time and gaining confidence in something they created.”

As tantalizing as the food is–both for competition and for sale–the entertainment is also an integral part of the fair. The grandstand hosts concerts, tractor pulls, rodeos, demolition derbies, and other crowd-pleasing events throughout the week. Carnival rides and games attract younger guests, while exhibits and vendor buildings provide shopping and educational opportunities. In recent years, the fair has added modern attractions, such as drone light shows to keep the event exciting for new generations.

The sounds from the fair are heard everywhere–but never so clearly as from the stage. From Johnny Cash to Creedence Clearwater Revival to Lady Antebellum, the grandstand never disappoints. This year’s concert headlines include the following:

• July 24: Ludacris
• July 25: Brett Young with special guest Sadie Bass
• July 26: Jamie MacDonald
• July 27: Charley Crockett with special guest Tege Holt
• July 28: Anne Wilson

The Elkhart County 4-H fair has earned a reputation for drawing massive crowds each year. Attendance often reaches more than 200,000 visitors annually. In 2023, the fair broke attendance records with more than 216,000 guests. Many Indiana residents consider it one of the best county fairs in the Midwest because of its combination of agriculture, entertainment, and community involvement. 

Beyond entertainment, the fair represents the culture and values of Elkhart County. It celebrates agriculture, youth achievement, volunteerism, and local traditions. Families return year after year to create memories, support 4-H participants, and enjoy time together. For many residents, attending the fair is more than just a summer activity, it’s a long standing tradition that connects generations of community. 

“My favorite part of the fair is seeing young people take pride in their work,” Shafer admits. “Whether it is an animal project, a foods project, or something else entirely, the fair gives students a chance to show responsibility, creativity, patience, and growth. It is more than ribbons and exhibits. It is about helping kids build skills that they will carry with them long after fair week is over.”

Sessler can attest to this. “Our fair has allowed me to get out of my comfort zone try new things. I’ve learned how to become a stronger leader, which can be applied to my daily life.”

While not everyone may officially be a 4-H’er, for nine solid days, they can immerse themselves in what it genuinely means to be a part of the Elkhart County 4-H Fair.