Ottumwa Stories: Summer Fun At The Wapello County Fair!

Published June 1, 2022

Fair season is almost here, and we’re so excited to share details of this year’s Wapello County Fair! The fun begins on Wednesday, June 15, and continues through Sunday, June 19 - and each day has a special feature that you won’t want to miss.

On opening day, Wednesday, June 15, evening events will include twilight harness races in the Grandstand at 6 p.m. and the Queen and Little Miss contests at 7 p.m. in Wapello Hall.

Every day, fairgoers can check out Miller’s Petting Zoo, Kenny’s Funland Midway, Chainsaw Artist Clint Henik and the “Remembering Our Fallen” photo memorials in the Dance Hall.

Thursday, June 16, is Senior Day, and a free lunch for seniors will be offered at 11:30 a.m. for those with paid admission to the harness races, which begin at noon. The first 50 paid harness race admissions will receive a free commemorative mug. Activities continue at 3:30 p.m. with the Bill Riley Talent Show in Wapello Hall, the hot laps with the Eldon Raceway start at 6:30 p.m. with car races to follow.

Join in the one-of-a-kind experience that is Hairball on Friday, June 17, at 8:30 p.m. The Grandstand will open at 7 p.m. You can also check out the IMGA Goat Show in the JBS Building at 1 p.m.

Saturday, June 18, is JBS Ottumwa Day, featuring fun, family activities all day long. Take part in the fishing contest, antique tractor show, free kids’ events, wall climb provided by the National Guard, pedal pull and baby contest. The Heartland FFA & Open Market Lamb Show will begin in the JBS Building at 1 p.m. Make sure you’re at the fair Saturday evening for the Grandstand show - Niko Moon and Travis Denning, beginning at 6 p.m.

The Wapello County Fair wraps up on Sunday, June 19, with the antique tractor show from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. and the Redneck Rally at noon. The Swine Show and Beef Show start at noon and 12:30 p.m. Youth 5-16 years of age can go to Wapello Hall at 1 p.m. for free canvas painting. Immediately following the Redneck Rally, head to Wapello Hall for the chainsaw art and quilt auctions.

For more information about the Wapello County Fair schedule of events, click HERE.