Plymouth County Iowa Fairgrounds Events

Plymouth County Fairgrounds in Le Mars, Iowa, is a longstanding gathering place for agricultural exhibits, youth livestock competitions, grandstand entertainment, and summer activities. The grounds bring together farm families, 4-H and FFA members, local organizations, commercial exhibitors, and visitors from across northwest Iowa.

Located at 500 4th Avenue NE in Le Mars, the fairgrounds host the annual Plymouth County Fair, widely known for its combination of agricultural education, livestock shows, midway attractions, and community entertainment. The fair is organized through the Plymouth County 4-H and Agricultural Society, with youth programming supported by Iowa State University Extension and Outreach in Plymouth County.

For visitors planning ahead, the next scheduled annual fair is July 28 through August 1, 2027. Whether you want to watch livestock judging, enter a competitive exhibit, apply for a vendor space, or bring the family for an afternoon of rides and fair food, understanding how the grounds operate can make the visit easier.

Overview of Plymouth County Fairgrounds

Location and physical setting

Plymouth County Fairgrounds is situated in Le Mars, the county seat of Plymouth County in northwestern Iowa. The physical address is 500 4th Avenue NE, Le Mars, IA 51031.

Visitors driving into Le Mars can use the city’s main streets and connecting routes to reach the northeast side of town. Because traffic patterns and designated entrances can change during fair week, visitors should check the current parking arrangements before arriving, particularly when attending a grandstand event or bringing livestock.

The grounds contain dedicated areas for livestock exhibitions, indoor competitive exhibits, commercial displays, family activities, and outdoor entertainment. Named facilities include Century Hall, the Round Barn, Pioneer Village, the Kiddie Barn, the livestock pavilion, and the covered show arena.

Organization and agricultural importance

The Plymouth County 4-H and Agricultural Society oversees the fair, while Iowa State University Extension and Outreach helps coordinate 4-H educational programs and youth exhibit activities.

The fairgrounds serve a broader purpose than hosting a five-day summer celebration. They provide Plymouth County young people with opportunities to demonstrate animal care, agricultural knowledge, practical skills, and creative projects. For farming families, livestock exhibitors, and rural community organizations, the annual fair is also a place to reconnect with neighbors and recognize the work completed throughout the year.

How long has the fair been operating?

The fair’s history at its present Le Mars location dates to 1941. Before that move, fairs were held in Merrill for many years. In May 1941, the Le Mars Chamber of Commerce voted to purchase 20 acres for agricultural promotion and 4-H club work. The first Plymouth County Fair at the present location took place in September of that year.

The agricultural society was formally organized in 1944, and 4-H members helped establish the facilities through fundraising and hands-on work. Those beginnings explain why youth participation and agricultural education remain central to the fair today.

Upcoming Events at Plymouth County Fairgrounds

Annual fair and recurring activities

The principal annual event is the Plymouth County Fair, held over five days in late July or early August. Its schedule combines livestock competitions, educational demonstrations, open-class exhibits, commercial displays, family entertainment, and grandstand events.

Activities featured in the fair’s recent programming include:

• 4-H and FFA livestock shows for several animal species.
• Open-class photography, arts, horticulture, food preservation, and creative exhibits.
• Midway rides and family attractions.
• Motocross and other scheduled grandstand entertainment.
• Live music and performances at Pioneer Village.
• Horse activities, youth competitions, and educational demonstrations.
• Commercial exhibitors and community organization booths.

These examples reflect the fair’s established programming, not a guarantee that every activity will return in 2027.

Seasonal events and facility rentals

The summer fair is the main public event associated with the grounds. Preparation and exhibit check-in can begin before opening day, while livestock and static exhibits are released after the main fair concludes.

The fairgrounds also contain indoor halls and outdoor event areas that may be useful for organized gatherings. However, availability for independent flea markets, swap meets, private celebrations, gun shows, or other outside events should be confirmed with the fair office rather than assumed from the facilities alone.

To find upcoming events in Plymouth County, check the latest fair schedule and contact the fair office during the off-season. Individual event dates, admission rules, and facility availability can change from year to year.

The Plymouth County Fair

2027 Fair Dates: July 28–August 1, 2027

The Plymouth County Fair is the main annual attraction at the Le Mars fairgrounds. The five-day event combines agriculture, youth achievement, entertainment, and family activities. The 2027 dates are scheduled for Wednesday, July 28, through Sunday, August 1.

Visitors should check the published schedule closer to the event for daily opening times, individual show times, entertainment announcements, and any changes to the program.

Livestock shows and competitive exhibits

Livestock judging is an important part of the Plymouth County County Fair experience. Recent programming has included beef cattle, swine, sheep, goats, dairy animals, poultry, rabbits, and other youth animal projects. Specific classes and show times depend on the year’s official fair book.

Youth and adult exhibitors may also participate in non-livestock categories. These can include photography, horticulture, baking, food preservation, arts and creative hobbies, clothing-related projects, and educational presentations.

The exhibit buildings give visitors an opportunity to see work that receives less attention than the midway or grandstand but represents substantial preparation by local participants.

Midway rides and family entertainment

The fair’s midway has featured the McDermott Family Midway, with rides and attractions scheduled during fair week. Ride availability, operating hours, height restrictions, and any reduced-price periods should be confirmed against the current year’s schedule.

Recent fair programming has also included free inflatable attractions, children’s activities, magic shows, interactive educational exhibits, and opportunities to meet animals in the Kiddie Barn.

Food, music, and grandstand events

Fair visitors can expect a mix of concessions and community-run food stands, although the precise vendors and menu vary annually. Traditional fair choices may include burgers, grilled food, snacks, sweets, and cold drinks.

Pioneer Village has hosted live musical performances, while the grandstand has been used for motorsports and other scheduled entertainment. Previous programs have included motocross and figure-eight racing. The 2027 grandstand lineup should be treated as unconfirmed until officially announced.

Admission and parking

The published 2026 visitor information listed daily admission at $10 per person, free admission for children aged five and younger, and a $60 season pass covering up to four people per car each day. Parking was included with paid admission.

These are 2026 prices, not confirmed 2027 rates. Visitors should verify the next season’s admission policy before traveling. The 2026 visitor information also described designated entrances for general parking, walk-in visitors, commercial exhibitors, and livestock exhibitors.

Facilities and Grounds

Exhibition buildings and livestock areas

The fairgrounds have several named buildings and outdoor spaces serving different purposes. Century Hall hosts selected competitions, presentations, and activities. The 4-H/FFA Exhibit Building accommodates youth projects, while open-class buildings display entries from other participants. Becker Hall and the Hall of ’15 have been used for commercial exhibits.

Livestock facilities include dedicated areas for different animals, a livestock pavilion, and a covered show arena. These spaces support animal check-in, judging, and educational activities throughout fair week. The Round Barn and Pioneer Village also give the grounds a historic dimension beyond the standard exhibition halls.

Parking, accessibility, and visitor amenities

Parking arrangements are organized by entrance, with designated spaces for visitors with disabilities. The fair’s visitor information has identified accessible parking near the Round Barn and other locations around the grandstand and commercial exhibit areas.

Explore Plymouth County Iowa Fairgrounds Events for updates about county fairs livestock shows agricultural displays and community gatherings. Visitors can also discover Palo Alto County Iowa Fairgrounds Events for additional fairground information.

Other documented visitor amenities include:

• Trolley and courtesy golf-cart transportation when volunteer availability permits.
• A first-aid station provided with assistance from Floyd Valley Healthcare.
• An ATM.
• Multiple restroom locations, including family facilities.
• An information point at the fair office.
• Free horse-and-wagon rides as a longstanding fair tradition.

Visitors with mobility requirements should review the current grounds map before arrival. The availability of paved routes, accessible restrooms, transportation carts, and particular parking spaces should be confirmed for the area they intend to visit.

Camping and overnight stays

Do not assume that camping or RV hookups are available simply because the grounds host an agricultural fair. Current camping locations, reservations, electrical hookups, and overnight rules need to be confirmed with fair management. Visitors who cannot secure a campsite on the grounds should investigate established campgrounds and accommodation options elsewhere in the Le Mars area.

Vendor and Exhibitor Information

Applying for a commercial booth

Businesses, artisans, agricultural suppliers, and other exhibitors interested in reaching Plymouth County Fair visitors should ask the fair office about commercial space.

Before applying, determine whether the desired location is indoors or outdoors, what booth dimensions are available, whether electricity is provided, and what insurance or licensing documentation is required. Vendors should also ask about setup and removal times, vehicle access, fees, and restrictions on the products or services they intend to sell.

Commercial exhibit space is subject to availability and the fair’s own approval process. Participation in a previous year should not be taken as confirmation of a place in the following year’s fair.

Entering competitive exhibits

Livestock exhibitors and 4-H/FFA participants should use the appropriate registration procedures and follow the current fair book. Open-class entrants should check the instructions for their chosen category, including photography, horticulture, food preservation, arts, and creative hobbies.

Deadlines can differ between categories. For example, the 2026 registration information gave a June 30 deadline for Pride of Iowa and clothing-event entries. That deadline should not be applied automatically to 2027.

The fair office and Plymouth County Extension and Outreach can clarify which entry system applies, when registration opens, and whether special health certificates or animal identification records are required.

Fair office contact information

The fair’s published contact details include the following:

• Physical address: 500 4th Avenue NE, Le Mars, Iowa 51031.
• Mailing address: PO Box 1230, Le Mars, Iowa 51031.
• Off-season telephone: (712) 490-1990.
• Fair-week telephone: (712) 546-4525.
• Email: [email protected].

For vendor applications, exhibit questions, or rental enquiries, confirm that the contact details and relevant staff responsibilities remain current before submitting paperwork.

Getting to Plymouth County Fairgrounds

From Le Mars and nearby communities

Because the grounds are inside Le Mars, visitors already in the city can follow local streets toward 4th Avenue NE and the fairgrounds entrance designated for their visit.

Travelers from Sioux City and other communities in the surrounding region can use their preferred highway route into Le Mars, then follow local signs and event-day traffic instructions. Visitors coming from Sioux Center, Orange City, or other nearby towns should allow additional time during peak fair hours, particularly before popular grandstand performances.

These are general arrival guidelines rather than turn-by-turn directions. Check a current road map and the fair’s entrance instructions before setting off, especially if you are hauling livestock, operating a vendor vehicle, or carrying bulky equipment.

Public transportation and rideshare

Do not rely on a dedicated public-transit service or fair shuttle unless one has been announced for the relevant year. Trolleys and courtesy golf carts have operated within the fairgrounds when volunteers are available, but they are not a substitute for transportation to Le Mars.

Rideshare passengers should agree on a safe drop-off and collection point outside restricted gates and follow any temporary traffic-control instructions. Commercial exhibitors and livestock exhibitors may have different vehicle access rules from ordinary visitors.

4-H and FFA at Plymouth County Fairgrounds

Youth agricultural education

The Plymouth County Fair provides a public setting for young people to demonstrate skills developed through 4-H clubs and FFA activities. Iowa State University Extension and Outreach in Plymouth County supports the county’s 4-H programming, including exhibit guidance and fair participation.

The youth program extends beyond livestock. Static exhibits, clothing-related activities, educational presentations, and practical projects allow members to show communication, creativity, animal care, and problem-solving skills.

The number of participating clubs and FFA members can vary. Current enrollment information should come from the extension office or participating schools rather than an outdated estimate.

Junior livestock auction

The fair has scheduled a 4-H/FFA livestock ribbon auction following the main fair, with the 2026 schedule listing it for August 3. That date is specific to 2026 and should not be assumed for 2027.

A livestock auction typically allows buyers to support youth exhibitors by bidding on eligible animals or purchasing an agreed level of support. The specific bidding procedure, eligible animals, payment arrangements, and distribution of proceeds depend on the fair’s rules.

Prospective buyers should contact the organizers before auction day to learn how to register, whether businesses can participate, and what commitments are involved. Exhibitors should review animal ownership, identification, weigh-in, and show requirements well before the entry deadline.

Special Events Beyond the Annual Fair

The fairgrounds’ facilities support several types of activities beyond static displays and livestock shows during fair week. Their established uses include commercial exhibitions, educational gatherings, horse-related activities, grandstand entertainment, and community programming.

Motocross and figure-eight racing have appeared in previous fair schedules. Pioneer Village has hosted music and historical activities, while indoor halls have accommodated demonstrations and competitions.

However, the presence of exhibition buildings or a grandstand does not establish that a particular gun show, flea market, swap meet, rodeo, ATV event, concert, or private celebration is scheduled. These events should be treated as possibilities only when confirmed by the organizers.

Groups considering the grounds for a fundraiser, community meeting, or special event should ask about rental availability, capacity, insurance, equipment, catering restrictions, accessibility, and cleanup requirements.

History of Plymouth County Fairgrounds

Plymouth County’s fair tradition reaches back further than the current fairgrounds. An early annual agricultural fair was held in 1873 at stockyards near Le Mars, reflecting the importance of livestock and farming in the county’s development.

The early agricultural society eventually ceased operating, but interest in a permanent location returned decades later. In May 1941, the Le Mars Chamber of Commerce voted to purchase 20 acres for agricultural promotion and 4-H activities. The first fair at the present location opened in September 1941.

Young people helped make the project possible. According to the county’s recorded 4-H history, members sold foot-long pencils to raise money and helped carry buckets of cement during the construction of the first building.

The fair expanded as participation increased. Historical accounts describe additional livestock barns and exhibition buildings during the 1940s, followed by further land purchases and improvements in later years. These changes transformed the grounds into a permanent venue for agricultural exhibitions, youth competitions, and community entertainment.

The Round Barn, schoolhouse, and Pioneer Village contribute to the fair’s connection with local history. They offer visitors an opportunity to explore agricultural and educational heritage alongside the modern midway and livestock shows.

A detailed year-by-year record of cancellations, exceptional attendance figures, and major disruptions is not established here. Those details should be checked against historical fair records before being published as definitive claims.

Frequently Asked Questions

When is the Plymouth County Fair in 2027?

The Plymouth County Fair is scheduled for July 28–August 1, 2027, in Le Mars, Iowa. Check the published schedule before traveling because individual events and operating hours may change.

What time does Plymouth County Fairgrounds open?

During the 2026 fair, the published schedule listed daily gate hours of 7 a.m. to midnight. These hours are not yet confirmed for 2027, and individual buildings and attractions may open later than the main gates.

Where are Plymouth County Fairgrounds located?

The fairgrounds are at 500 4th Avenue NE, Le Mars, Iowa 51031. Visitors should follow the designated entrance and parking instructions for their event.

How much does it cost to enter the Plymouth County Fair?

For 2026, single-day admission was listed at $10 per person, with free admission for children five and younger. A season pass was listed at $60 per car for up to four people. The 2027 prices have not been confirmed.

Is there camping at Plymouth County Fairgrounds?

Visitors should contact fair management to verify whether on-site camping and RV hookups will be available during the 2027 fair. Do not assume that overnight parking or camping is permitted without approval.

How do I enter livestock in the Plymouth County Fair?

Eligible 4-H and FFA participants should consult the current fair book and Plymouth County Extension and Outreach for registration instructions, animal identification requirements, health documentation, and deadlines.

Are dogs allowed at Plymouth County Fairgrounds?

Check the current fair rules before bringing a dog. Animal-entry rules for livestock and service-animal access are different from general pet admission, so visitors should not assume ordinary pets are permitted throughout the grounds.

Where do I park at Plymouth County Fairgrounds?

The fair has designated entrances for general parking, walk-in visitors, and commercial or livestock exhibitors. Follow event-day signs and the current parking map. Accessible parking is available in designated areas.

Who do I contact to rent Plymouth County Fairgrounds?

Contact the Plymouth County Fair office to ask about facility rental availability and conditions. The published off-season telephone number is (712) 490-1990. Confirm the appropriate contact for your proposed event before making arrangements.

What livestock can be shown at the Plymouth County Fair?

Recent programs have included beef cattle, swine, sheep, goats, dairy animals, poultry, and rabbits, along with other youth animal activities. The exact classes and eligibility requirements depend on the current year’s fair book.

Are there rides and entertainment at the Plymouth County Fair?

Yes. Previous fair programs have featured midway rides, children’s activities, live music, educational demonstrations, and grandstand entertainment. The precise lineup for 2027 should be confirmed when the schedule is published.

Can businesses apply for vendor space at the fair?

Businesses can contact fair management to ask about commercial exhibit opportunities, available booth locations, application deadlines, fees, and setup requirements. Space and approval are subject to the fair’s policies.