El Paso County Colorado Fairgrounds Events

The El Paso County Fairgrounds in Calhan, Colorado, bring together eastern El Paso County’s agricultural traditions, youth livestock programs, rodeo entertainment, carnival attractions, and community gatherings. Located along the US Highway 24 corridor east of Colorado Springs, the fairgrounds serve residents of Calhan, Falcon, Peyton, Ellicott, and surrounding rural communities.

The annual El Paso County Fair remains the site’s best-known event, combining agricultural exhibits and livestock competitions with entertainment for families. The grounds also host activities outside fair week, making them a useful regional venue for community events, special programs, and private rentals.

Overview of El Paso County Fairgrounds

Location and physical setting

The El Paso County Fair and Events Center is located at 366 10th Street, Calhan, Colorado 80808. Calhan sits on Colorado’s eastern plains, approximately 30 miles northeast of central Colorado Springs by road, depending on the starting point.

The grounds are reached from US Highway 24 through Calhan, with access points along 10th Street and Yoder Street, also identified as Calhan Highway. The North Gate serves the fair office and designated accessible parking, while other gates accommodate fair parking and equestrian or event traffic.

Facilities and local significance

The fairgrounds contain livestock facilities, exhibition and community buildings, and an arena with grandstand seating. The Alfred E. Owens Livestock Arena is an important venue for animal-related activities. Swink Hall houses the fair office, and other facilities support exhibits, meetings, and community programming.

The exact total acreage and a current, verified building inventory should be confirmed with the fair office rather than estimated. The site’s layout has developed over many decades to accommodate agricultural displays, animal competitions, entertainment, and public gatherings.

For residents of eastern El Paso County, the fairgrounds are more than an entertainment venue. They provide a place where young exhibitors demonstrate skills developed through 4-H and FFA, local organizations participate in community activities, and agricultural traditions remain visible in a county that also includes the expanding Colorado Springs metropolitan area.

Upcoming Events at El Paso County Fairgrounds

Annual fair and seasonal activities

The El Paso County Fair is the principal annual attraction. Its program can include livestock shows, equestrian activities, rodeo entertainment, carnival rides, food vendors, agricultural exhibits, and scheduled family activities.

The fair’s official event calendar has also listed activities beyond the summer fair, including a fall festival, a country holiday fair, and homesteading-related gatherings. These listings illustrate the venue’s wider community role, although individual event dates and programs can change from year to year.

Visitors looking for upcoming events in El Paso County should distinguish between events held at the Calhan fairgrounds and activities taking place elsewhere in the county. Before travelling, confirm the venue, opening hours, admission arrangements, and any advance-ticket requirements.

Finding the latest schedule

The fair’s official event calendar and the El Paso County Extension office are the most useful starting points for current information. The published fair guide typically brings together daily schedules, attractions, vendor details, and practical visitor information.

Facility rentals are also available for selected buildings and spaces. Availability, rental costs, permitted uses, and any insurance requirements depend on the facility and the event. Groups should contact the fair office before planning a private gathering.

The El Paso County Fair

Fair dates and annual program

The 2026 El Paso County Fair ran from July 11 through July 18, 2026, for eight days in Calhan. Those dates are historical as of October 2026, not an upcoming event.

The 2027 fair dates, daily hours, and full entertainment schedule should be confirmed through the fair’s official announcements. Do not assume that the 2026 dates or program will repeat unchanged.

The fair’s agricultural roots date to the early twentieth century, and its present-day program combines traditional exhibits with contemporary entertainment. The exact lineup, ticketed performances, and carnival arrangements vary by year.

Livestock, agriculture, and creative exhibits

Livestock competitions are central to the fair’s educational and agricultural purpose. Depending on the published year’s program, eligible classes can include beef cattle, sheep, swine, goats, poultry, rabbits, and other small animals. Horse and dog activities may have separate schedules and entry requirements.

Agricultural and household exhibits can also include crop displays, gardening, baking, canning, photography, art, crafts, and other practical skills. The current premium book identifies the official classes, judging criteria, entry deadlines, and award arrangements.

Carnival rides, food, and entertainment

The fair has featured a midway atmosphere with carnival rides, games, and concession stands. Typical fair foods may include funnel cakes, corn dogs, burgers, lemonade, and other portable treats, although specific vendors and menus change each year.

Rodeo and grandstand entertainment have long been associated with the fair. Depending on the program, visitors may encounter special performances, concerts, or other ticketed attractions alongside activities included with general admission.

Do not assume that every ride, show, or grandstand event is covered by the gate ticket. Ride wristbands, premium entertainment, discounts, and daily admission rates should be checked against the current year’s ticket information.

Admission and parking

Admission prices, age-based discounts, free-entry periods, and special event charges can change annually. Check the published visitor information before setting a family budget.

The fairgrounds provide designated parking areas, including accessible parking near the North Gate. The official directions also identify a South Gate associated with fair parking. Follow temporary traffic signs and staff instructions during major events, when vehicle access may differ from normal arrangements.

Facilities and Grounds

Livestock barns and exhibition buildings

The fairgrounds’ facilities support animal handling, judging, public exhibitions, and community use. The Alfred E. Owens Livestock Arena is a prominent livestock venue, while buildings such as Swink Hall provide space for administration and fair-related activities.

The fair’s exhibition program may require separate arrangements for animal check-in, stall allocation, health documentation, and exhibit drop-off. Exhibitors should consult the current fair rules rather than assume that every building is open to the public or that stall space is available without advance registration.

Visitors exploring El Paso County Colorado Fairgrounds Events can also discover regional activities through Eagle County Colorado Fairgrounds Events. Exploring both locations offers opportunities to discover local traditions, enjoy seasonal gatherings, and experience community celebrations throughout Colorado.

Arena, grandstand, and outdoor spaces

The grounds include an arena and grandstand facilities used for selected livestock and entertainment events. The site’s outdoor areas can accommodate activities that require open space, but the availability of particular areas depends on the event calendar and rental agreement.

A current, verified grandstand seating capacity and a complete inventory of permanent exhibition buildings are not established here. Organizers planning a large event should ask the fair office about capacity, permitted layouts, electrical access, restrooms, and any restrictions.

Camping, accessibility, and visitor amenities

Visitors should confirm whether overnight camping or RV parking is available for their particular event. The existence of a fairground does not guarantee that public overnight stays are permitted or that hookups are provided.

Accessible parking is identified at the North Gate. Visitors who need step-free access, accessible restrooms, or assistance with a specific venue should contact the fair office before arrival. Parking arrangements, concessions, cashless payment options, and first-aid services may differ between the annual fair and smaller events.

Vendor and Exhibitor Information

Applying for a commercial vendor booth

Businesses, food vendors, artisans, and community organizations interested in participating in the El Paso County Fair should review the vendor application process for the relevant year. Applications may involve booth selection, fees, operating hours, proof of insurance, food-service compliance, and other event-specific conditions.

The fair’s vendor information is especially important for understanding setup periods and operating requirements. A place at a previous year’s fair does not automatically guarantee a space in a future year.

Entering competitive exhibits

Livestock exhibitors and participants in agricultural, creative, or household categories should consult the current premium book and entry instructions. These documents explain eligible classes, registration procedures, deadlines, judging rules, and any required forms.

Animal exhibitors should pay particular attention to check-in times, identification requirements, health documentation, and showmanship rules. Different species and activities may follow separate procedures.

For current applications, registration assistance, and fair-related questions, the El Paso County Extension office is a useful contact for educational and competitive programs.

Getting to El Paso County Fairgrounds

Driving from Colorado Springs

The main route from Colorado Springs is US Highway 24 east toward Calhan. Travellers approaching from Falcon continue along US 24 into town, then turn south onto Yoder Street, also called Calhan Highway. The North Gate is reached from 10th Street and provides access to the fair office and designated accessible parking.

Driving from Limon and nearby communities

From Limon, follow US Highway 24 west toward Calhan. On entering town, turn south onto Yoder Street/Calhan Highway and follow the posted directions to the appropriate gate.

Visitors coming from Peyton, Ellicott, and other eastern El Paso County communities should check their preferred route before leaving, especially during fair week. Traffic controls and gate arrangements may change during large events.

Public transportation and rideshare

Do not assume that regular public transportation or a dedicated fair shuttle operates to the grounds. Check local transport availability for the intended date. Rideshare passengers should agree on a pickup location with their driver and follow event staff directions rather than stopping in a restricted entrance or traffic lane.

4-H and FFA at El Paso County Fairgrounds

Youth education and county extension programs

Colorado State University Extension works with El Paso County’s community services programs to support educational activities and county fair competitions. The fair gives young people opportunities to practise animal care, recordkeeping, public presentation, agricultural knowledge, and responsible competition.

Four-H participants may enter livestock and small-animal shows, horse activities, dog shows, and other approved project categories. FFA students may also participate through eligible agricultural education projects and livestock classes, subject to the current rules.

A verified current count of active county 4-H clubs and participating FFA chapters is not provided here. Families should contact the Extension office or their local agricultural education instructor for an accurate list.

Junior livestock sale: how it works

The junior livestock sale gives eligible youth exhibitors an opportunity to present qualifying animals to buyers after the fair’s judging process. Buyers may include local businesses, agricultural supporters, families, and other community members.

Sale eligibility, the auction date, buyer registration, payment arrangements, and the treatment of proceeds depend on the applicable year’s rules. Some sales involve market animals and may have specific delivery or processing arrangements. Buyers should obtain the sale terms before bidding, while exhibitors should review the current instructions to understand how their proceeds are handled.

Special Events Beyond the Annual Fair

The El Paso County Fairgrounds’ role as an events center extends beyond the summer agricultural fair. Depending on the calendar, its buildings and outdoor areas may be used for community programs, educational gatherings, seasonal fairs, and private functions.

Community gatherings and seasonal festivals

Fall and holiday events can provide opportunities for local sellers, craft exhibitors, and families to gather outside the main fair season. Homesteading-related programs may also appeal to people interested in practical rural skills and agricultural living.

The venue’s historical association with rodeos, horse activities, and livestock events makes it particularly relevant to agricultural groups and equestrian communities. However, a particular rodeo, horse show, flea market, gun show, swap meet, or motorsport event should not be considered confirmed unless it appears on the current schedule.

Facility rentals and private functions

The fair office can advise organizations about available rooms, covered spaces, arena facilities, and other potential rental options. Depending on the facility, the venue may suit meetings, youth activities, community gatherings, and other approved functions.

Rental prices and conditions vary by space and use. Organizers should request current rates, availability, occupancy limits, insurance requirements, setup arrangements, and cleanup responsibilities before making commitments.

History of El Paso County Fairgrounds

The history of the El Paso County Fair begins in 1905, when Calhan residents held a harvest celebration inspired by a strong potato crop. The early gathering featured a potato bake, agricultural displays, and horse races near Letterman’s Hill. What began as a modest local celebration developed into an established county fair.

The first full county fair followed in 1906, with agricultural and home-economics exhibits, children’s activities, livestock, and rodeo-style entertainment. A fair book appeared in 1907, and the event received a state charter in 1909.

By 1911, the gathering had outgrown its original schoolyard setting. The fair moved through different arrangements, including events on Calhan’s Main Street during World War I. In the late 1920s, the Hammerton family donated ten acres south of town for permanent fairgrounds, with additional land acquired later.

The fair’s development was not always easy. Severe blizzards in 1926 and 1927 contributed to financial losses, and community members helped address the resulting debt. The organization reorganized as a nonprofit and received its permanent charter in 1929. Over time, temporary exhibition spaces gave way to permanent buildings, improved livestock facilities, and grandstands.

In 1979, the fairgrounds were deeded to El Paso County, bringing the operation under county supervision. The fair continued to evolve as the county’s population and economy changed, preserving its agricultural focus while adding attractions for a broader audience.

The fair’s history shows why Calhan remains central to this annual tradition: the grounds connect the county’s rural heritage with the educational, social, and entertainment needs of present-day residents.

Frequently Asked Questions

When is the El Paso County Fair in 2027?

The 2027 dates have not been confirmed in the information available for this article. The 2026 fair ran from July 11 through July 18. Check the fair’s official announcements for the next year’s dates and daily schedule.

What time does El Paso County Fairgrounds open?

Opening hours depend on the event. During the 2026 fair, Saturday and Sunday gates opened at 9:30 a.m., with later opening times on several weekdays. These hours should not be treated as the schedule for other events or future fairs.

Is there camping at El Paso County Fairgrounds?

Overnight camping and RV arrangements should be confirmed directly with the fair office. Ask about permitted dates, reservations, hookups, parking restrictions, and any additional fees before bringing a camper.

How do I enter livestock in the El Paso County Fair?

Review the current year’s livestock premium book and registration instructions through Colorado State University Extension in El Paso County. Complete the required entries before the published deadline and check the rules for animal identification, health documentation, check-in, and showmanship.

Are dogs allowed at El Paso County Fairgrounds?

Pet access depends on event rules, animal-show requirements, and applicable restrictions. Do not assume that household pets are permitted throughout the grounds. Confirm the policy before bringing a dog, and ask about service-animal accommodations if needed.

Where do I park at El Paso County Fairgrounds?

The grounds have designated parking areas accessed through different gates. The North Gate, off 10th Street, provides access to the fair office and designated accessible parking. The South Gate is also identified for fair parking. Follow the signs and staff directions in place on your event date.

Who do I contact to rent El Paso County Fairgrounds?

Contact the El Paso County Fair and Events Center at 719-520-7880 or [email protected] to ask about facility availability, rental rates, permitted uses, and application requirements.

How much does it cost to get into the El Paso County Fair?

Admission prices vary by year and may differ for general entry, carnival rides, and separately ticketed entertainment. Check the current fair information and ticket details before travelling; previous years’ prices may no longer apply.

Where exactly are the El Paso County Fairgrounds located?

The address is 366 10th Street, Calhan, CO 80808. From US Highway 24, enter Calhan and follow the directions to Yoder Street/Calhan Highway and the appropriate fairground gate.

What activities are available besides the county fair?

Depending on the schedule, the venue may host seasonal festivals, homesteading activities, community gatherings, youth programs, and private events. Livestock and equestrian activities are also associated with the grounds. Check the event calendar to confirm individual activities and dates.