The 2026 Baxter County Fair kicks off Tuesday in Mountain Home, offering five days of festivities under the theme “Ribbons, Rides, & America Unites.” The event, hosted at the Baxter County Fairgrounds, will continue through Saturday.
Opening day begins with entries for exhibits in categories such as home economics, art, photography, baked goods, and horticulture, which will be accepted in the Education Building from 2 p.m. to 6 p.m. on Tuesday only. Food preparation and horticulture participants must have entries in place by 6 p.m.
Livestock activity also launches Tuesday with cattle, swine, goats, and lambs arriving at the barn between 4 p.m. and 7 p.m.
The midway, featuring Evans United Shows Carnival, opens Tuesday evening from 5 p.m. to 9:30 p.m. Gate admission will be free on opening night, courtesy of Evans United Shows Carnival. Unlimited carnival ride armbands will be available for purchase at the gate for $35. Advance purchases of these armbands, discounted to $30, can be made until noon Wednesday at the Mountain Home Area Chamber of Commerce and select local banks in Mountain Home.
After Tuesday, regular admission prices for the fair are set at $7 for adults and students in grades 1 through 12. Children aged 5 and younger can attend free of charge.
Entertainment at the outdoor stage begins Wednesday evening. Brothers & Sisters in Christ (BASIC) are scheduled to perform from 6:30 p.m. to 9:30 p.m., followed by musical acts Nothin’ Knew on Thursday, the Leslie Williams Band on Friday, and The Table Worship Band on Saturday.
The Baxter County Fairgrounds are located at 1507 Fairgrounds Drive in Mountain Home. Festivities continue throughout the week with a variety of exhibits, activities, and attractions for the entire community.