Pacific County Fair — ‘Red, White, Moo’ — is Aug. 19-22 in Menlo
Published 1:30 am Tuesday, August 11, 2026
The Pacific County Fair is just around the corner at the fairgrounds in Menlo, Wednesday through Saturday, Aug. 19-22.
The fair’s opening ceremony is 10:30 a.m. Wednesday and closes at 9 p.m. Saturday. In between are plenty of livestock showings and even a talent show at 7 p.m. on Thursday.
New and improvements to the fair include a new livestock wash station and a three-year contract with the carnival.
Top musical act is the Nashville-rising trio The Heels, a powerhouse team that brings three-part harmonies and high-energy to the fair on Friday at 7:30 p.m. Recently named Country Group and Emerging Artist of the Year at the Josie Music Awards, they’ve racked up international chart success and millions of views with viral hits like “Hush Money.” Known for selling out iconic venues like The Bluebird Cafe, their live show is polished, electric, and unforgettable.
Pacific County Fair history
The Pacific County Fair has been a cherished tradition since its establishment in 1896. With its permanent location in Menlo since 1921, this fair has become a beloved cornerstone of the community. Over the years, it has evolved into an iconic event that brings together locals and visitors alike for a celebration of agriculture, entertainment, and camaraderie.
From its humble beginnings to its present-day grandeur, the Pacific County Fair has remained steadfast in its commitment to providing unforgettable experiences and creating lasting memories. It continues to be a testament to the vibrant spirit and enduring traditions of the region, inviting all to immerse themselves in a timeless celebration of community, culture, and fun.
The first fair held in Pacific County took place in the Pioneer block of Broadway on the football grounds in South Bend. According to an article from the South Bend Journal of 1896, the fair was held on Sept. 23, 24, and 25, 1896, and was organized by Timothy Bailey, E.E. Lilly, R.D. Handy, S.H. Bell, and F.A. Hazeltine.
The first day featured “Old Settlers” recounting their experiences as the sheriff, oystermen, and the first and only woman in Pacific County.
Exhibits included livestock in pens, a desk made from local curly maple and yew wood, an 1860 pound horse, a 100-pound pumpkin, canned salmon, flowers, apples, peaches, vegetables, a starfish, and an oyster eating contest.
It was the only fair in the state without a deficit. A total of $38.10 was left in the treasury to be divided by the winners. Most of the money was never claimed and provided a starter for the next year.
The following years saw the start of local fairs throughout the county. Some were held in Raymond, Chinook, Long Beach, Lebam, Frances, and Menlo. These fairs were often held in local schools and on school grounds. In the 1920’s a Loving Cup was presented to the best fair. The Long Beach Fair won it three years in a row. As transportation improved these fairs began to consolidate until there was one fair.
This was the first fair to exhibit cattle, swine, and goats, as well as all the other types of exhibits.
In 1938, The Menlo Fair’s name was changed to the Pacific County Fair.
In 1962 the horse barn was built. The grandstand was built in 1964 and enlarged in 1965.
