The year 2026 was a good one for the Hamilton County Fair. Despite some rainy conditions last July, the annual exposition drew a respectable turnout of fairgoers, participation in the various 4-H and FFA programs and hosting musical entertainment. The fair board held its annual meeting Tuesday night.
Fair board president Zach Williams thanked outgoing board member Dana Casey for his nine years of service on the Hamilton County Fair Board with an honor at the Tuesday night gathering at the Van Diest Building on the fairgrounds. A search is on to find his replacement.
This year’s annual Fair Board Fund Raising meal and auction raised over $38,500. There will be another Fair fund raiser in January.
There was a report on the operation of the local speedway Tuesday night.
The Karl Chevrolet Hamilton County Speedway had 14 events this year with 2 weather cancellations. Total attendance at the grandstand was recorded at 5,585. In his report presented to the board, co-promoter Todd and Janet Staley have not made a final decision on whether they will return to promote the speedway next season. Talks between the fair board and the Staleys continue. The Staleys listed potential improvements for next season. They include special events and scheduling, a Fan Dice Game, Fan Appreciation Rewards, Driver Appreciation Rewards and Expanding Sponsorship Opportunities. Again, no commitments have been made regarding the 2027 schedule, sponsorships, or the return of Todd and Janet Staley as promoters.
The Hamilton County Fair Board also announced the theme of the 2027 fair. “110 Years of Tradition and a Lifetime of Memories. The dates for the fair will be July 20 to 25th. In the meantime, next month the Hamilton County Fair board members will travel to Des Moines for the annual state county fair meeting and to plan for next summer’s fair.