DOUGLAS — The Wyoming State Fair is honored to announce its participation in the Great American Fair Initiative, a national campaign launched by the United States Department of Agriculture to commemorate the 250th anniversary of the United States of America. 

This effort invites all 50 state fairs in a yearlong celebration of patriotism, community and the American way of life, starting in 2025 and building toward the nation’s official semiquincentennial in 2026.

“Fifty percent of the militia who launched the American Revolution had backgrounds in agriculture,” Gov. Mark Gordon noted. “I think that speaks to the character of this country, and the importance of American agriculture, and its critical place in the fabric of our country.”

Having the 2025 Wyoming State Fair designated a Great American State Fair is a way to recognize Wyoming values and traditions, said Nick Neylon, a member of Gov. Gordon’s Semiquincentennial Task Force and Wyoming State Fair board member.

“As our country marks its 250th anniversary, this designation celebrates Wyoming’s unique heritage and our contributions to the American story. It’s a great time to reflect on our past, celebrate the present, and look ahead to a promising future,” Neylon said.

The Wyoming State Fair, now celebrating 120 years of honoring agriculture, youth, and Western heritage, is proud to help kick off this monumental celebration. As the official fair of Wyoming and a longstanding symbol of rural tradition, the fair aligns naturally with the spirit of America 250.

“At the Wyoming State Fair, we’re all about celebrating Western heritage,” said Shawn Steffen, president of the Wyoming State Fair board. “And let’s be honest, nothing says ‘America’ like the Wyoming way of life.”

Rooted in the traditions that built our country — agriculture, hard work, resilience, and a strong sense of community — state fairs have long served as a unifying space where people of all walks of life come together. That legacy continues in Wyoming, where patriotism and pride run deep.

“Most Wyoming citizens are very patriotic, and fairs are a celebration of the heritage and legacy of their regions,” said Laurie Boner, Converse County representative on the Wyoming State Fair board. “The Wyoming State Fair aligns well with the mission of America 250 — any time we can celebrate patriotism and the dedication of our military, both past and present, is an opportunity that we are honored to participate in.”

Through exhibits, grandstand events, and fairground festivities, the 2025 Wyoming State Fair will highlight the people and industries that power not just the state, but the nation — agriculture, education, natural resources, and service.

“At the Wyoming State Fair, we love the fair industry — and we love our country,” said Courtny Hinds, general manager of the Wyoming State Fair. “America was built on agricultural roots and the very values we champion every day: agriculture, education, youth, and Western lifestyle. That’s why we’re excited to participate in the Great American Fair Initiative and showcase the best of Wyoming while celebrating everything that makes our nation truly great.”

The 2025 Wyoming State Fair will take place Aug. 12–16 in Douglas and promises a patriotic showcase of the Cowboy State’s culture, traditions and people. Fairgoers can expect a mix of entertainment, educational exhibits, and community celebrations that tie directly into the Great American Fair initiative.

Join us this summer as we honor 120 years of the Wyoming State Fair and help lead the charge in celebrating 250 years of the United States of America.